British publishers
Identifying Jonathan Cape first editions
How Jonathan Cape marked its first printings
c. 1921 – 1980s
'First published [year]' with no further lines generally indicates the first impression; later impressions add 'Second impression', 'Reprinted' and so on.
Modern
Number lines; the lowest number is the impression.
Reading the number line
Where Jonathan Cape prints a number line (a row such as 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1), the printer removes the lowest number at each new printing. The lowest number you can see is therefore the printing: a first printing shows 1. Split lines such as 1 3 5 7 9 10 8 6 4 2 work the same way; look for the 1 anywhere in the row.
What the edition statement means
Like most British houses, this publisher recorded the book's history on the verso: a 'First published in [year]' line, with any later impressions listed underneath ('Second impression', 'Reprinted'). A verso with the first-publication line and nothing beneath it points to the first impression.
Common pitfalls
- Fleming and other high-value titles have specific binding and jacket points; the copyright page is only the first test.
Book-club editions
- UK book-club editions (e.g. Book Club Associates) usually lack a price on the jacket and have different boards.
Checking a copy in hand
- Read the entire copyright page, including small type at the foot, for any later-printing notice.
- Find the number line, if any, and note the lowest number.
- Compare the copyright date with any title-page date; on a first printing they normally agree.
- Check the jacket flap for a price and the rear board for a blind-stamp.
- For valuable titles, confirm title-specific points in a descriptive bibliography.
Frequently asked questions
How do I tell if a Jonathan Cape book is a first edition?
Cape printed 'First published [year]' and listed reprints; its Ian Fleming firsts are some of the most studied modern books. c. 1921 – 1980s: 'First published [year]' with no further lines generally indicates the first impression; later impressions add 'Second impression', 'Reprinted' and so on. Modern: Number lines; the lowest number is the impression.
Does a Jonathan Cape number line start at 1?
Generally yes. When Jonathan Cape uses a number line, the lowest number shown is usually the printing, so a first printing includes 1.
Does "First Edition" on a Jonathan Cape copyright page guarantee a first printing?
Like most British houses, this publisher recorded the book's history on the verso: a 'First published in [year]' line, with any later impressions listed underneath ('Second impression', 'Reprinted'). A verso with the first-publication line and nothing beneath it points to the first impression.
How can I spot a Jonathan Cape book-club edition?
UK book-club editions (e.g. Book Club Associates) usually lack a price on the jacket and have different boards.
What are the common mistakes with Jonathan Cape first editions?
Fleming and other high-value titles have specific binding and jacket points; the copyright page is only the first test.
Sources of known practice
- Zempel & Verkler, First Editions: A Guide to Identification (compiles publishers' own statements of practice)
- Bill McBride, Points of Issue
Practice varied between imprints and over time; dates given are approximate. This is guidance, not an appraisal.
Have a Jonathan Cape book in front of you?