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Previously undocumented 'Dummy A' variant of The Silmarillion by J.R.R. Tolkien. A Clowes-bound proof or dummy copy with unique ISBN imprint, incomplete chapter list and partial text.
#clp0189bt - The Silmarillion — 1977 Clowes 'Dummy A' Variant - George Allen & Unwin - 6000 EUR

Previously undocumented 'Dummy A' variant of The Silmarillion by J.R.R. Tolkien. A Clowes-bound proof or dummy copy with unique ISBN imprint, incomplete chapter list and partial text.

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J.R.R. Tolkien: The Silmarillion (Clowes Dummy “A” Variant, 1977)


George Allen & Unwin Ltd, 1977


An extremely rare and significant pre-publication state of *The Silmarillion*, believed to be the elusive “Dummy A” variant discussed in Tolkien collecting circles and only recently confirmed via photographic evidence and comparison with known publisher anomalies.

This copy was produced by Clowes, likely for internal or pre-sales use, and is distinguished by several unique features:
  • Only the prefix of the ISBN appears: “0 04”
  • The table of contents lists just 23 chapters (missing Chapter XXIV)
  • Text is printed only through page 29
  • Publisher imprint on title-page reads “London | George Allen & Unwin Ltd | Ruskin House Museum Street” — never used in final versions
  • Includes full dust jacket with printed price (£4.95) and “SEPTEMBER” publication notice

These elements match the description of the mysterious “Dummy A” as described by L.W. Currey and discussed in the blog post “The Silmarillion Clowes Dummy 1977” (February 2024). It is highly probable this is the first publicly documented example to surface.

Previously undocumented variant of *The Silmarillion*, widely believed to be the Clowes-produced “Dummy A” copy referenced by L.W. Currey and detailed in 2024 scholarship. Notable for its distinctive publisher imprint, partially printed text (through p.29 only), truncated contents list (23 chapters), and redacted ISBN with only “0 04” printed.

The book is in excellent condition, structurally solid with minimal wear. Internally clean and unmarked. The dust jacket is bright and crisp, unclipped and beautifully preserved.

One of the rarest Tolkien proof/dummy variants in existence — a foundational piece for any advanced Tolkien collection.

Digital photos and additional provenance details available on request.
Pictures (click to enlarge):
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