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First edition hardcover books can be very valuable. Browse your local used bookstore, or a rare book store to see which first edition authors are displayed. Classic authors such as Ernest Hemingway and C.S. Lewis are always great finds.

To figure out if one of your old books is a valuable first edition, check out one of the first inside pages. Along with other book information, the edition number will be given. Some books will be seventh edition, or fourth edition. This is the page you will find your book's edition on. Sometimes a quick indicator of an edition is the style of paper for the pages. The edges of the inside paper in the body of the book will be somewhat rougher on the outside edges than normal books.

If you've found a book you think would sell as a first edition, you must look at the condition of the book. The better the condition, the better it will sell. To check on the edition of the book, just jump online and enter the title, year and author of the book in question as a search subject. Your best bet would be to start a Google search. You can also try the major online bookstores for your title; many will usually offer other editions of the book you're looking for.

It's possible to find first editions anywhere, and their value will increase with time based on the condition and rarity of the book. Spend a day visiting used bookstores, and have fun hunting!

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