J.R.R. Tolkien - The Lord of the Rings Trilogy - First Edition Set with Original Dust Jackets (7th to 11th Impressions)

Rare first edition set of J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings trilogy, complete with original dust jackets and fold-out maps. Featuring early impressions of The Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers, and The Return of the King. A collector's gem in very good condition.

The Fellowship of the Ring (1957) – Seventh Impression
The Two Towers (1960) – Seventh Impression
The Return of the King (1963) – Tenth Impression (in Eleventh Impression jacket)

Rare Collectible Edition Set of J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings - Featuring Original Fold-Out Maps and Dust Jackets.

This is a rare and highly collectible first edition set of J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings, consisting of The Fellowship of the Ring (7th impression, 1957), The Two Towers (7th impression, 1960), and The Return of the King (10th impression, 1963). All three books feature their original dust jackets, with the Return of the King having an 11th impression jacket as is usual in this printing, which include Tolkien’s iconic designs, and the fold-out maps of Middle-Earth drawn by the author himself.

The original dust jackets are present on all three volumes, showing signs of age with faded spines, tears and edge wear, as seen in the provided images. There is some light foxing visible on the dust jackets, with The Fellowship of the Ring and The Return of the King jackets exhibiting discoloration and chips along the spine and corners. The red title text remains bold and clear, maintaining the original design elements that Tolkien intended. Each dust jacket remains unclipped, with the original prices (21s net) clearly visible.

The red cloth covers of all three volumes are in very good condition, with minimal shelf wear. The gilt lettering on the spines is bright and crisp. There is no visible loosening of the bindings, and all three books remain tightly bound with no loose or detached pages.

Internally, the books are in excellent condition. Pages show light toning consistent with age, but are otherwise clean and free from markings, inscriptions, or significant foxing, apart from some isolated spots near the first few pages. All pages are intact, with no tears or dog-eared corners.

Each volume contains the original fold-out maps in pristine condition. The maps are free from tears and remain neatly folded inside the back covers. These maps, a hallmark of Tolkien’s intricate world-building, are a highly sought-after feature in early editions of The Lord of the Rings.

All three volumes are first edition printings, with The Fellowship and Two Towers being from the 7th impression, and The Return of the King from the 10th impression.
Each dust jacket retains its original price of 21s net.
The fold-out maps remain fully intact and in excellent condition.

This is an exceptional opportunity for Tolkien enthusiasts and rare book collectors to own a well-preserved early edition set of one of the greatest literary works of the 20th century. With the original dust jackets and maps still present, this set is not only a testament to Tolkien’s genius but also a valuable investment piece for any serious collector.

Don’t miss your chance to own this iconic piece of literary history!

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.