Most of the books we buy and sell are either first editions, rare, signed or limited editions.

Determining whether your book is the first edition or not can be tricky, as publishing houses like to use different conventions. In the past, the words first edition often appeared on the copyright page without any subsequent impressions mentioned. Whilst some publishers still use this convention today, most simply use numbers.

Many publishers use a number line (10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1). If there is a number 1 in the line it is the first edition. Alternatively, some publishing houses use a single number to designate an edition - the number 1 means it's the first edition. In truth, this is just scratching the surface as there is a multitude of exceptions and conventions. If you are in doubt please contact us - a photo of the copyright page is always useful.

Think you have a first edition or have a question click below.

If you’re an avid reader or book collector, you may have come across the word ‘folio’; then you’ve either walked away confused or Googled the term and ended up on this page.

The folio society was founded in 1947 by Charles Ede. If you try any of the above methods and are still unsure, look for the FS logo. Every Folio Society publication features a unique ‘FS’ logo on its spine.

You’ll also find publisher details inside any book which details that it’s a Folio Society publication. This includes the date it was published and information about any additional editing or introductory work contained within the publication.

Many people collect folio society books, so if you’re clearing out someone’s possessions and they have a lot of books, it’s worth checking whether they’re folio society books.

Sell your Folio Society Books to RGW Antiques + Books. It’s easy. Click below.

Condition is very important and will greatly influence value. A beaten-up old book that is falling apart will usually have little value but still contact us.

First editions are sought-after by book collectors and a first edition is usually more valuable than a later printing. A first edition signed by the author will have even greater value.

Scarcity influences value.

For hardcover books published from the 20th century onwards, the presence of a dust jacket and its condition also greatly affect value.