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1973 Hobbit Collectors Edition Trade vs Book Club

Subject: 1973 Hobbit Collectors Edition Trade vs Book Club
by Mediokrates on 2011/7/8 5:10:54

Hi all,

Wondering if anyone has images of the book club edition of the 1973
green collector's edition, or knows how to identify one.

A few years ago, I picked up what appears to be a 3rd printing trade, for credit at a used book store.

I am curious, since I've read that the book club version was released in the same year. I've read that there may be distinguishing characteristics, but have been unable to find any pictures that demonstrate these.

The copyright page on my copy reads: "Third Printing H"
The page edges are green mottled. I cannot find a blind stamp mark.
Additionally, my copy has the "Rune error," which was corrected partway through the 3rd printing.

I believe this is the trade, but am not sure, as there are some issues which may indicate it is a book club edition:
1. There is a gutter code: MU1D, located on the reverse side of the map of Wilderland.
2. A hand-written gift inscription, dated March 28, 1974, indicates "Book-of-the-Month-Club. (I realize this may indicate a private book of the month group, rather than the book's actual printing origin.)

Thanks