The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien – 8th Impression, 1956

An Early Impression of the Second Edition with Original Dust Jacket

This is the 8th impression of The Hobbit, published by George Allen & Unwin Ltd. in 1956. Bound in original green cloth with Tolkien’s dragon and mountain motif in dark blue to front and rear boards. Features the iconic dust jacket designed by Tolkien himself. A charming and collectible edition from Tolkien’s lifetime.

Key Features:
- 8th Impression of the Second Edition, published 1956 by George Allen & Unwin Ltd.
- Original green cloth binding with Tolkien’s black line illustrations to boards and spine.
- Original dust jacket present, featuring Tolkien’s classic wraparound design with mountain landscape and runic border.
- Includes Tolkien’s own color frontispiece and maps of Wilderland and Mirkwood.
- 315 pages + maps + advertisement for The Lord of the Rings on rear pastedown.

Condition:
- Dust Jacket: Complete but price-clipped on both flaps. Rear flap is trimmed diagonally. Notable sunning to spine panel and minor edge wear with small chips and creases at spine tips and fold corners. Light vertical crease visible on front panel. Still bright and presents well in archival sleeve.
- Book: Green cloth boards show significant sunning, especially to spine and top/bottom edges. The cloth retains clarity of stamped illustrations. Binding is tight and square. No internal writing or bookplates.
- Interior: Pages are clean and bright. Color frontispiece of The Hill is vibrant. Includes both maps, all pages accounted for, no foxing or spotting.

This is a desirable mid-1950s impression of The Hobbit, retaining Tolkien’s original illustrations and dust jacket design. Despite some condition flaws, it remains a collectible and charming presentation of one of the most beloved books in English literature.

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Interested: Please send email to info@tolkienlibrary.com.