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What is a first edition?
A first edition is the first press run of the first type-setting of a book. Whether a book is a first or second edition makes a great deal of difference to the value of a book. First editions often have typos or misprints, which are considered valuable by collectors. The first edition consists of all books printed until the book file is changed, such as to correct any errors in the first edition. Subsequent editions will not have the same collector value as the first edition.

How many first editions are there?
That's up to the publisher. Most publishers print 1,000 or more, while others print 500 or less. Yet others never take a book out of first edition, so the value of the first editions is reduced by unlimited copies in circulation.

What is a first edition worth?
The value of a first edition book depends on many factors, such as how many were printed, whether it is signed or not, and the condition the book is in.

An inscribed first edition of Ian Fleming's 1953 James Bond novel, Casino Royale, sold for $40,454 as part of Bloomsbury Auctions. A signed first edition of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire by JK Rowling has sold for £27,500.

Many people think first editions only gain value after the death of the author. Not so at all. As a writer becomes more popular, the value begins to increase.

Due to the growing success of her books, German writer Cornelia Funke is being hailed as Germany's J. K. Rowling. First editions of her books are now selling for $150.00 - $450.00 USD

P.S. An autographed first edition set of Al's first two books is currently available. Grab it while you can.