J.R.R. Tolkien’s ‘De Hobbit,’ Dutch Paperback, First Printing

Published by Prisma-Boeken, First Edition (1960), Utrecht/Antwerpen: Het Spectrum.

Dutch Edition of *De Hobbit of daarheen en weer terug* translated by Max Schuchart.

A true collectible: the very first Dutch edition of J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit, published in 1960 by Prisma-Boeken (Het Spectrum), translated by Max Schuchart. This pocket-sized paperback features the distinctive illustrated cover by Cees Kelfkens, with a playful design of Bilbo and the dwarves set against a vivid magenta background.

Condition report:
The cover shows edge wear, minor surface creasing, and a faint central diagonal fold, most notably on the front. The colors remain bold and bright. The spine has light creases but is fully intact and firm. There is mild wear to the corners and some rubbing to the back edges.

The inside front page bears a neat ownership signature: “J. Timmerman” in blue ink. There are no additional annotations or marks throughout the text. The paper has uniformly aged to a warm tan tone, consistent with the natural aging of 1960s pulp paper. There is no foxing or staining noted.

The book includes both of Tolkien’s maps — Thrors kaart and the Wilderland map — printed in Dutch, preserving Tolkien’s original styling. Both maps are complete and well-preserved.

The copyright page confirms the 1960 first printing, with copyright held by George Allen & Unwin Ltd. and Dutch publication by Het Spectrum. The contents page lists all 19 chapters, with pagination consistent to this edition.

The final pages contain publisher advertisements for other Prisma-Boeken titles and a promotional note for *In de ban van de ring* (The Lord of the Rings), also translated by Max Schuchart.

This is a true first printing of the Dutch edition, and copies in such well-preserved condition are increasingly scarce. A desirable piece for Tolkien collectors, particularly those seeking international first editions.

First Dutch printing of De Hobbit – a foundational collectible in any serious Tolkien collection.

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