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Bilbo's Last Song by J.R.R. Tolkien. Illustrated by Pauline Baynes. Advance Uncorrected Proof, Hutchinson 2003. Rare proof copy with upside-down printing error.
#clp0189aj - Bilbo’s Last Song Proof Copy with Printing Error - 900 EUR

Bilbo's Last Song by J.R.R. Tolkien. Illustrated by Pauline Baynes. Advance Uncorrected Proof, Hutchinson 2003. Rare proof copy with upside-down printing error.

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Bilbo’s Last Song – Advance Uncorrected Proof (Upside-Down Printing)


J.R.R. Tolkien. Illustrated by Pauline Baynes. Published by Hutchinson, London, 2003.


A highly unusual Advance Uncorrected Proof copy of Bilbo’s Last Song, Tolkien’s poetic farewell to Middle-earth, illustrated in colour by Pauline Baynes. This copy includes the final dustjacket from the published edition wrapped around a white proof-state binding.

Notably, this proof was misbound with the entire interior block printed upside down — a rare and collectible production flaw, especially valuable in advance state.

The lyrical text of Bilbo’s final journey is paired with jewel-like full-page illustrations, bringing both The Hobbit and Bilbo’s last voyage vividly to life. The poem was Tolkien’s gift to a personal assistant during his final years — published posthumously in 1990, and lovingly illustrated by Baynes in later editions such as this.

Condition is Near Fine — jacket is crisp and clean; the inner block (despite the inversion) is unmarked and firmly bound. Pages are rich in colour, with no damage or defacing.

A phenomenally scarce Tolkien proof copy — collectible both for its format and its rare binding error.

Digital photos available on request.
Pictures (click to enlarge):
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