by J. R. R. Tolkien
First edition, first printings of the epic fantasy trilogy
London: George Allen and Unwin, 1954-55. 1954, 1954, 1955. Three volumes. First edition, first printing of each volume of Tolkien's iconic Lord of the Rings trilogy. With the signature mark "4" on page 49 of The Return of the King. Recently bound in full red leather with spines lettered in gilt, housed in a customs red cloth-covered slipcase. Near Fine, with all three folding maps at rear. Topstains mellowed, light spotting to textblock edges. Contents lightly tanned, with an occasional light stain or corner crease. A lovely set of Tolkien's epic trilogy, which is considered one of the greatest fantasy works ever written and is among the best-selling books of all time. Its contribution to popular culture has been profound.