J.R.R. Tolkien, The Hobbit, Second Edition, Sixth Impression

Published by George Allen & Unwin, London, 1954

Early post-war printing of Tolkien’s classic, illustrated by the author and complete with its maps.

This 1954 printing of The Hobbit or There and Back Again is the sixth impression of the second edition, published by George Allen & Unwin in London. It retains Tolkien’s own illustrations, including the color frontispiece, Thror’s Map, and the folding Wilderland map at the rear.

Bound in the original publisher’s green pictorial cloth, stamped in black with Tolkien’s familiar dragon and mountain design. The binding remains attractive overall, though the spine has faded, and there is some wear at the extremities. The book is slightly cocked, with the upper cover sitting somewhat shifted to the right in relation to the text block, giving the volume a visibly leaned appearance when handled.

Structurally, the binding shows weakness: the spine is broken/cracked internally, and the book now bends as a result. It is still complete and presentable, but this should be noted clearly, as it is not a tight, square copy.

Internally, the book remains generally clean and pleasing. There is some foxing or spotting, most noticeably around the map area and the first flyleaf, while the remainder of the text is relatively clean for the period, with light expected age-toning throughout.

The color frontispiece, “The Hill: Hobbiton-across-the-Water,” remains present and attractive. Thror’s Map and the large folding Wilderland map are both present. A previous ownership inscription, “George Saslow 1955,” appears near the map, indicating early ownership close to the time of publication.

Despite the structural flaws, this remains a charming and desirable early Allen & Unwin printing of The Hobbit, complete with its maps and original pictorial cloth, and still very appealing on the shelf.

A solid and honest collector’s copy of an early 1954 Allen & Unwin Hobbit, best suited to readers and collectors who value originality and completeness over strict condition.

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.