Notes - Signatures (500)

Signatures are given according to Gaskell’s formula for all single-volume monographs published through 1700 and may be given for monographs published after 1700. Signatures are generally not given for multi-volume monographs, but may be given for multi-volume monographs if the cataloger has collated by signatures to check against a bibliography that gives signatures, to distinguish variants, or for other reasons. Fuller collations, including statement of signings, are generally not given, but may be given if important to distinguish between variants.

Exceptions: signatures are generally not given for incunabula when cited bibliographies record signatures and are required for transfers only through 1600.

See Signature/Pagination Table (for a 23-Letter Alphabet).

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