Tolkien Library Store - Original Cloth Bindings

#000254 - 1st imp of 2nd Ed US Hobbit - 1951 - SOLD
A Very Good copy of an extremely scare early Hobbit.  The 1951, 5th overall printing, or the 1st printing of the 2nd Edition (1951).
A Very Good copy of an extremely scare early Hobbit. The 1951, 5th overall printing, or the 1st printing of the 2nd Edition (1951). One of only 1,000 imported from Allen & Unwin for the US.

This copy is a stated 5th impression on title verso, with the title page showing Allen & Unwin Ltd as the publisher, but with Houghton Mifflin on the spine of the book.
This is one of the rare US 5th impressions, that still have the original UK design on the boards, featuring tolkien's Mountains and Dragon in dark blue on the green cloth.

The only 1st or 2nd US edition Hobbit with the UK design. The only difference is the Houghton Mifflin stamped on the spine. The boards show a little soiling and marking, mainly from handling, one small liquid drop mark on the spine.

The text block is clean, without foxing. Shows almost no shelf wear, a couple of slightly bumped corners. A beautiful clean copy, still has some remnants of the original green topstain. Contains the full color frontispiece "The Hill: Hobbiton-across-the Water", as well as the original line drawings by Tolkien.

The maps are in good condition, with the red and black ink still showing clear and bright against the endpapers. Both maps are lacking any foxing, with a small wrinkle on the front map, probably from the binding process. The rear map shows some rubbing with associated loss from removal of bookplate or possibly card pocket. No stamps, or previous owners names or any other writing to indicate a library book.

Overall a very collectable copy, hard to find in this Very Good condition. Housed in custom slipcase to protect and show off this highly collectable book.

Digital photo's available, inquire if interested.  
Other Tolkien books available, include both the UK and US editions, original cloth bindings, custom fine bindings, and Signed/Numbered/Limited Editions.   
Pictures (click to enlarge):
 
 
 
 
Terms of sale: Prices are only indications, always inquire if books are still available. We accept Money Orders, cash, or Credit Cards (paypal) for immediate shipping.  Checks will delay shipment for 10 days for checks to clear. Please inquire for shipping quotes.
Interested: Please send email to info@tolkienlibrary.com.