J.R.R. Tolkien, De Hobbit – Dutch First Edition, 1960, Prisma-Boeken 1st Printing

Iconic Dutch paperback of The Hobbit with the much-loved pink cover design by Cees Kelfkens – the very first printing from 1960.

Published by Prisma-Boeken (Het Spectrum), Utrecht / Antwerpen, 1960.
First Dutch paperback edition of De Hobbit of Daarheen en Weer Terug, translated by Max Schuchart, with cover artwork by Cees Kelfkens.

This compact Prisma pocket is the true first appearance of The Hobbit in Dutch and has become one of the most recognisable Tolkien paperbacks worldwide. Bilbo and the dwarves march across Kelfkens’ bright magenta wrapper – a charmingly mid-century interpretation that many collectors actively seek out.

Edition points
– Copyright page states © 1955 George Allen & Unwin Ltd., London and © 1960 by Het Spectrum N.V., confirming the 1960 first printing.
– Prisma-Boeken imprint to title page and copyright page.
– Includes both Dutch maps: Thrors kaart and the Wilderland map, printed across the central spread.

Condition report
The front cover still shows strong, unfaded colours, with surface rubbing to the edges and a noticeable horizontal crease running across the upper portion of the wrapper.
The spine is rubbed with vertical reading creases and light wear to the head and tail, but remains complete and has not split.
The back cover is presentable, with typical edge wear and a few small marks, but no major tears or losses.

The text block edges are uniformly tanned, as always for this inexpensive paper stock. Internally the pages are evenly browned but remain flexible and perfectly readable.
There is a neat contemporary ownership name in ink to the rear of the book; otherwise the interior is free from underlining or marginalia.
Both maps are present, clearly printed and without tears.

The final leaves contain the familiar Prisma advertising pages, including the notice for the Dutch translation of In de ban van de ring. The binding is sound, with no loose gatherings.

A complete and honest example of the scarce 1960 first Dutch printing of The Hobbit – featuring the famous Cees Kelfkens pink cover that has become a favourite among international Tolkien collectors. An excellent opportunity to add a true translation cornerstone to a Tolkien collection at an accessible price point.

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