J. R. R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, 1st, 1962,63. Set Imp. 13,10,9

Allen & Unwin 1963, 63, 62, impressions 13, 10, 9, 1963 set. Our most affordable first edition set due to the extensive wear. Still above average and priced correctly. Books are in quite good condition with no flaws, but you are paying for jackets. Jackets have more paper loss to the spines than usual with many marks and stains.

A stain is spread across all three spines which is a shame they would otherwise be a more valuable set. FotR spine paper is detached from the covers, but has been re-attached with acid free clear tape. Overall an excellent starter set, an unusual for having complete dust jackets. We have been a professional Tolkien dealer for over 20 years. All our photos are the actual item!

As Tolkien book collecting grows in popularity, the availability of collectible/investment original condition books and jackets disappears. It is not just the printing/edition that matters to the value, but that serious collectors want only the best condition. Books with damaged jackets or even no jackets at all, are now increasing in price, driving up the price of complete and better condition copies. That's how important condition is to value. Unlike other genre's, the market for Tolkien early editions is quite mature and well established.

It is not a matter of waiting for a better copy to come along. There aren't going to be any!

There are no more hiding in the attic or charity shops. People sell off their more worn copies when they upgrade and now leave their collections to their children.

We've been a specialist dealer for 20 years. Some examples that were plentiful just two years ago are now completely gone or only the dregs appear. First editions The Lord of the Rings and Hobbits remain the most in demand.