The Lord of the Rings, George Allen & Unwin, 1971 One-Volume Paperback Edition, 9th Impression.

Early UK one-volume paperback of The Lord of the Rings, published by George Allen & Unwin in 1971, with cover illustration by Pauline Baynes.

This is the 9th impression of the celebrated 1968 one-volume paperback edition, first issued by Allen & Unwin and featuring the iconic Pauline Baynes wraparound cover art.

Based on the printing page, the impressions are listed as:
First published in one volume India paper edition: 1968
Reprinted: 1969 (twice), 1970 (twice), 1971 (this being the 9th impression).

The book contains the full text of The Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers, and The Return of the King, including all maps:
– General map of Middle-earth
– Detailed map of Rohan, Gondor & Mordor
– Map of The Shire

Condition:
The cover shows general creasing, edge wear, and rubbing consistent with use. The spine is creased and worn but remains intact. Internally, the pages are complete; some age-toning is present, as typical for this edition. Previous ownership marks appear on the half-title page. Light pencil markings (‘T t5’) to the half-title page; easily erasable if desired. The maps are present and legible. Overall a good, solid reading copy of an increasingly difficult-to-find early one-volume printing.

The Pauline Baynes cover illustration—one of the most recognisable and beloved visual interpretations of Middle-earth—wraps around the entire book and remains attractive despite the wear.

An affordable and desirable early Allen & Unwin one-volume edition, perfect for collectors looking for a vintage Baynes-covered LOTR or anyone seeking an authentic early printing of Tolkien’s masterpiece.

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