The infamous Ace Books "pirated edition" from 1965.
The opening salvo of the "War over Middle- Earth".
A very nice Near Fine matched set of this notorious edition.
This is the only paperback 'Lord of the Rings' to be printed based on later printings of the 1st Edition.
All others were based on the revised editions.
Houghton Mifflin, seemed to have been in technical violation of the law by having imported too many copies printed by Allen & Unwin.
Ace Books took notice of the sales and overseas production of the books, (which are marked, 'Printed in Great Britain'), determined that LotR's had fallen into the public domain in the United States, and launched their own edition in spring 1965.
{Hammond and Anderson, pg 104}
So to secure their American copyright, Tolkien was asked to submit new material to create a new Edition, and so secure their copyright beyond question.
Tolkien conducted a personal campaign against Ace Books in letters to his American fans.
The "War over Middle-earth' was fought in the popular press, with the publicity contributing to increased sales and popularity.
Within a year, Ace gave in to public pressure.
They agreed to print no more copies, and they negotiated royalties to be paid to Tolkien.
This set of books has only slightly yellowed pages, much less than the norm, from the highly acidic paper, and very light or no creasing to the spines.
Only minor amount of rubbing to the exterior, with the covers very bright and clean.
Same previous owners name to first free endpaper in each book, no other marks or writing noted.
A custom slipcase featuring tolkien's Ring and Eye device on one side, and his JRRT monogram gilt stamped on the case. Makes a beautiful presentation of these exceptional books.
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.