20 Oct, 2023
2023-10-20 8:36:29 PM UTC
Hi! I'm looking to get my first First edition of the hobbit, potentially second edition (I'm totally fine with late printings). I don't have a lot of money yet, but I'm hoping to spend up to around $500 for my first original Hobbit.
I was just wondering whats the best place to do that, and what are some things to look out for? Is $500 reasonable? I don't mind a late printing, I'm just looking for original design and a dust jacket that is in great condition.
Thanks for all of your help and comments in advance!
20 Oct, 2023
2023-10-20 8:59:37 PM UTC
I assume you want a UK version as original Hobbit or would a US version also work?
At this price and with a little patience I think you could get a 2nd - 12th impression overall UK edition or later at a v. good condition..
Ebay is the most likely source, though if you monitor the 'Interesting Listings' topic here, other places work too (Catawiki, the-salesroom for auctions, etc)
20 Oct, 2023
2023-10-20 9:20:02 PM UTC
Demis wrote:
Halbarad wrote:
Correct, I am looking for the first UK edition first, although if at all possible, a first US edition would be phenomenal! Although, I have a sneaking suspicion that those are much rarer. Is that true?
Sorry to disappoint but you will not get a first edition for less than $4-$5.000 I believe..
Trotter recently did a video with first edition UK Hobbits - they are very rare and only a handful were made - up to 4th impression.
You are likely to get a 2nd edition - 10th impression or later with this budget.. or an earlier US edition / but my knowledge on US versions is more limited
Sorry I misspoke, yes I'm totally happy with 2-4th editions! I meant I'm looking for the UK edition primarily. I'm quite aware that first edition hobbits are going for thousands haha. But again, I'm totally happy with a later printing of 2nd edition. I'll keep my eyes pealed on ebay for something.
20 Oct, 2023
2023-10-20 9:22:35 PM UTC
I would echo that sentiment. If you found a first ed. Hobbit (no matter the printing) for $500 in good shape that would be the deal of the year.
A first Hobbit in good condition with Jacket would run you min. $4,000 for a 4th printing and on up for the 3rd 2nd and 1st
A first US HMCO Hobbit in Jacket (any state) would be well beyond that.
20 Oct, 2023
2023-10-20 9:26:53 PM UTC
If it doesn't matter the printing Allen and Unwin printed the Hobbit with Tolkien's jacket and original boards through the 3rd Ed. 10th printing (1975) You could grab one of the later printings very easily and for much less than $500
Uk 2nd Edition (1951-1965 prints) Price Range around $2000-$400
Uk 3rd Edition (1966-1975 prints) Price Range around $400-$100
Estimates of course...
20 Oct, 2023
2023-10-20 9:30:00 PM UTC
20 Oct, 2023
2023-10-20 9:32:22 PM UTC
Mr. Underhill wrote:
If it doesn't matter the printing Allen and Unwin printed the Hobbit with Tolkien's jacket and original boards through the 3rd Ed. 10th printing (1975) You could grab one of the later printings very easily and for much less than $500
Uk 2nd Edition (1951-1965 prints) Price Range around $2000-$400
Uk 3rd Edition (1966-1975 prints) Price Range around $400-$100
Estimates of course...
Oh yeah thats wonderful news! I'll begin looking for 2nd and 3rd editions then. I think that'll be a great place to start, since its all the same as the 1st edition basically. Thank you!
20 Oct, 2023
2023-10-20 9:36:12 PM UTC
Halbarad wrote:
Mr. Underhill wrote:
If it doesn't matter the printing Allen and Unwin printed the Hobbit with Tolkien's jacket and original boards through the 3rd Ed. 10th printing (1975) You could grab one of the later printings very easily and for much less than $500
Uk 2nd Edition (1951-1965 prints) Price Range around $2000-$400
Uk 3rd Edition (1966-1975 prints) Price Range around $400-$100
Estimates of course...
Oh yeah thats wonderful news! I'll begin looking for 2nd and 3rd editions then. I think that'll be a great place to start, since it's all the same as the 1st edition basically. Thank you!
Well... not exactly 'all the same'! And not just from a value perspective or date of print, but the first edition Hobbits had different text on some chapters which later Tolkien altered to make sure there is no inconsistencies with LoTR.
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