Unbelievable Find: First Edition of The Hobbit Auctions for £43,000!

A remarkable first edition of J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit recently sold for £43,000 at auction. This particular copy, part of a limited print run from 1937, was discovered during a house clearing in Bristol. Only about 1,500 copies were made, and experts believe that only a few hundred still exist.

The auction house, Auctioneum, was surprised by the intense bidding, which far exceeded initial expectations. Caitlin Riley, a rare books specialist, commented, “It’s a wonderful result for a very special book.” She recalled how she stumbled upon the book while exploring an ordinary bookcase, never anticipating it was a true first edition.

This first edition is bound in light green cloth and includes black-and-white illustrations by Tolkien, who crafted the enchanting world of Middle-earth while working at the University of Oxford.

Interestingly, the book belonged to Hubert Priestley, a botanist and brother of Antarctic explorer Sir Raymond Edward Priestley. Auctioneum noted that both Priestley and Tolkien likely had mutual connections, including correspondence with author C.S. Lewis, another Oxford figure.

Tolkien’s work has had a profound impact, selling over 100 million copies globally. The story not only captivated readers but also transitioned into blockbuster films in the 2010s. In fact, a different first edition with a handwritten Elvish note by Tolkien fetched a staggering £137,000 at Sotheby’s in 2015.

Experts suggest that the rising interest in collectibles like this book reflects a growing appreciation for literary history and nostalgia in today’s digital age. For many, owning a piece of this legacy is more than just having an old book; it’s about connection and cultural significance.

This auction illuminates the deep bond many have with Tolkien’s work, showcasing how stories can endure and evolve through generations.

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