How to identify a Scribner first edition
From 1930 until the early 1970s Scribner marked its first printings with a lone capital “A” on the copyright page, sometimes inside a code with letters and numbers.
What to look for, by period
before 1930
The Scribner seal and the month and year of publication on the copyright page, matching the title page date. Later printings are usually noted.
1930 – early 1970s
A capital “A” on the copyright page marks the first printing, sometimes followed by a date and printer code. Later printings carry a different letter or none.
1970s – today
A number line. Lines from the 1970s and 80s often include codes such as “I/C” or “Q/C” between the numbers; ignore them and look at the lowest number. Modern Scribner books often also say “First Scribner hardcover edition”.
- Tip: In Scribner number lines, codes such as “I/C”, “Q/C” or “H/C” describe the binding or printer, not the printing.
Dates are approximate. Imprints and individual titles sometimes differ; for valuable books, check a bibliography of the author.
Check your Scribner book
New to number lines? Read how to read a number line, and how to spot a book club edition.