The Hobbit, or There and Back Again by J.R.R. Tolkien - 1951

London: Allen & Unwin, 1951 A superb copy of an early printing of The Hobbit. The 1951, 5th overall printing, or the 1st printing of the 2nd Edition (1951). A Near Fine book, with a Very Good Plus/Near Fine dustjacket. The dustjacket shows beautifully, with only minor loss at the tips of the folds and edges. A few minor closed tears to the edges have been reinforced with archival tape. The stated 5th impression dustjacket is original to the book, and has protected it well over the years. It is not price clipped and still shows "8s 6d. net", to the front flap. Stated 5th impression on title verso, one of 3500 printed (both US & UK) and bound from November 1950 thru March 1953 (per Hammond and Anderson). The text block is clean and bright, without foxing, bound in the green colored original cloth, stamped in dark blue, from the publisher. Shows no shelf wear or rubbing, no soiling to note, or bumped corners. A beautiful clean bright copy, still has the green topstain, only slightly marked or faded. Contains the full color frontispiece "The Hill: Hobbiton-across-the Water", as well as the original line drawings by Tolkien. The maps are in excellent condition, red and black ink still show clear and bright against the endpapers, with no foxing. No other writing or marks. A beautiful copy, virtually faultless, scarce in original dustjacket in any condition. A custom hand marbled paper slipcase to protect and show this classic. The first to incorporate the changes to help conform the tale of The Hobbit to the 'Lord of the Rings' story line. Additional 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. . 2nd Edition. Original Cloth. Near Fine/Very Good Plus. Illus. by J.R.R. Tolkien. 12mo - over 6¾" - 7¾" tall.