Unwin first introduced a paperback set with a paper sleeve in 1974. This set is the first with a cardboard slipcase in 1976, with the release of the 40th year Hobbit. The books appear unread, yellowing to page edges, with small scuffs to edges in place. Slipcase a little more worse for wear, but solid. Most older fans remember the first book set and this one will be nostalgic to many fans. The story of paperback Tolkien books is more important than hardbacks. Without these cheaper paperback books, Tolkien's masterpieces may not have been discovered on a mass scale. These are now important to the history of any complete collection, but must be in near fine or fine condition to be collectible and valuable. We've been a specialist Tolkien dealer for 21 years. We have been a professional Tolkien dealer for over 20 years. We sell on several sites, not just Ebay and items can end at any time. Buy now! All our photos are the actual item!