I actually picked it up myself. Condition isn't amazing, but is an earlier impression than I have (mine is the 4th), with the different logo on the spine. If it is the 1st impression, I'll be pleased.
Seller cancelled the order. Presumably someone offered them more money. It happens.
Edited by Emilien on 2026-4-27 12:08:01 PM UTC Edited by Emilien on 2026-4-27 12:09:06 PM UTC Edited by Emilien on 2026-4-27 12:09:49 PM UTC Edited by Emilien on 2026-4-27 12:11:09 PM UTC
2026-4-27 12:05:37 PM UTC
Not the best condition, but one does not see the 4th state LotR boxset 1959-1960 (linen covered) so often.
Edited by Emilien on 2026-4-27 2:05:20 PM UTC Edited by Emilien on 2026-4-27 2:06:32 PM UTC
2026-4-27 2:04:43 PM UTC
Mr. Underhill wrote:
Emilien wrote:
Not the best condition, but one does not see the 4th state LotR boxset 1959-1960 (linen covered) so often.
Not the best condition is putting it mildly, that box might fall apart in transit to whomever buys it. Looks like it could possibly have mold as well.
Sure, but still a scarce sight. I'm not sure that the crease on the top really makes the box that much fragile (I have a copy of this one, and it's by far the sturdiest box I own—much sturdier than the other states of this set for instance, not to mention the more recent editions.) That doesn't change the fact that it's not in good looking condition, we'll all agree on that.
Edited by Mr. Underhill on 2026-4-27 4:09:50 PM UTC
2026-4-27 4:09:06 PM UTC
Emilien wrote:
Mr. Underhill wrote:
Emilien wrote:
Not the best condition, but one does not see the 4th state LotR boxset 1959-1960 (linen covered) so often.
Not the best condition is putting it mildly, that box might fall apart in transit to whomever buys it. Looks like it could possibly have mold as well.
Sure, but still a scarce sight. I'm not sure that the crease on the top really makes the box that much fragile (I have a copy of this one, and it's by far the sturdiest box I own—much sturdier than the other states of this set for instance, not to mention the more recent editions.) That doesn't change the fact that it's not in good looking condition, we'll all agree on that.
Definitely not common, I would just have concerns about the water damage and possible mold at the corners of the box. Looks like this item has been kept in a very damp environment. When boxes get wet and then dry and then get wet again, over time it can weaken the structural integrity and make them very brittle and subject to warping (as seen here). But you're right about the 4th state box being the sturdiest.
3
