First edition, third impression, in a scond impression dust wrapper. 352pp, with large two colour folding map at rear. Deep red cloth-covered boards with gilt lettering to spine. 8vo. Cloth is moderately rounded and a little rubbed on corners and spine ends, with a very slightly wobble to front panel. Text block edges a little dull. Previous owner's name, dated 1955, on a slightly marked and toned front free endpaper, a hint of toning occasionally internally else neat and clean throughout. In its original, second impression (stated at the head of the inner front flap) dust wrapper, shelf worn, rubbed all round edges with some minor loss at corners and spine ends. Dust wrapper now protected in an archival quality Mylar wrapper fitted without the use of tape or adhesives.
This volume is a first edition, third impression. It states 'second impression, 1955' on the copyright page but does not have the date 1955 on the title page, and this variant is widely considered by Tolkien collector's to be the third impression.
