The Lord of the Rings — 1963 UK Deluxe Edition, 13th/10th/10th Impressions (Custom Slipcase)

The desirable 1963 Allen & Unwin Deluxe Edition of The Lord of the Rings, complete in three volumes, housed in a finely made custom slipcase styled after Pauline Baynes’ iconic triptych design.

A complete 1963 deluxe-format set of The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien, comprising:

• The Fellowship of the Ring — 13th Impression (1963)
• The Two Towers — 10th Impression (1963)
• The Return of the King — 10th Impression (1963)

This printing configuration matches the 1963 deluxe issue as recorded by Hammond & Anderson and TolkienBooks.net. All three books are bound in the original publisher’s black buckram with gilt lettering to the spine, beveled boards, all edges gilt, and the original silk ribbon markers.

Condition

The volumes are in Very Good condition: clean black boards, solid bindings, and bright gilt lettering. The gilt page edges show the expected light rubbing and small marks typical of the 1960s deluxe sets. No writing, inscriptions, or previous ownership markings inside the books. As is common for the edition, The Two Towers shows a slightly more pronounced spine fade than the other two volumes, though less than usual compared to most sets on the market.

Custom Slipcase

Instead of the extremely fragile original Pauline Baynes slipcase (rarely surviving in collectible condition), this set comes in a high-quality custom-made slipcase featuring professionally mounted reproductions of the Baynes triptych artwork. Structurally sound, clean, and an attractive presentation.

Notes

The 1963 deluxe sets are among the scarcest early Allen & Unwin deluxe formats. Original slipcased examples command very high prices due to rarity; this custom slipcased set offers the same aesthetic appeal at a more accessible price point.

A very collectible mid-1960s deluxe set — clean, complete, and beautifully presented.

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.