Print Strings/ Edition Numbers

[Hellion]

Can anyone enlighten me as to how the print string/edition number system works on new books works? Is there a start number with the last digit going up sequentially for each new print run or is it a series of numbers with the last digit being deducted. I have a first edition of Harry Potter & The Philosophers Stone number 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 and I'm trying to work out if this is 1st, 2nd or 3rd printing. Many thanks

[Test4]

Hi there,

The ISNB number system is set up by the US Senat; maybe they have a internet site page to give you the exact explaination of the digit code system.

Sabine

[Lillabet]

It sounds like it is a third printing. A first would usually read 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 once you get over a tenth run it is usual for the line to read 20 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 and so on.

[Golem]

There's a good summary of how to identify first edition books and how different publishers use the numbering system here;

http://www.emptymirrorbooks.com/firstedition.html

[Hellion]

Been away over the weekend and just logged on, apologies for my tardiness in saying many thanks for your replies they were very useful.