The next number is assigned automatically
You cannot choose, reserve, buy, trade or transfer a preferred number. The publication’s type, format and language do not affect which number comes next.
One sequence for every publication
All SPSNs come from the same sequence. The number series provides more numbers after a six-digit range is used up. It does not show a subject, country, language, publisher or type of publication.
An issued number is kept forever
Once issued, an SPSN always belongs to the publication we approved. We never give it to another publication, even if the original publication is no longer available or its SPSN is withdrawn.
What happens after withdrawal
Withdrawal hides most details from the public page but keeps the number reserved and shows a short withdrawal notice. A cancelled or rejected application never receives or reserves an SPSN.