Obviously my memory isn't that good. Didn't realise it sold for as much as £1999!!!!

I call that an incredible waste of money, personally.

BH

I agree Khamul. I'd rather buy something signed, a letter, a LotR set, or a Hobbit for that price. Of course, I've never spent that much on a book and don't plan to anytime soon.

But of course, Tolkien collectors are interested in different stuff. I would personally never throw down thousands for a copy of Songs for the Philologists, but I would probably like to own a first edition of Tolkien's Beowulf essay someday.

The fact of the matter is works like this sell for so much simply because of their scarcity. Small print runs and probably not a lot of copies preserved (I'm guessing; I do not have Hammond at hand).

Agree. Whilst I would like this book, I like you Jlong think if i was to spend best part of £2k assuming it goes for that I would rather buy a letter, something signed or an older Hobbit.

Different people /different priorities i guess

As a matter of interest has anyone got a copy of this verses book already?

I know, I know. I was referring to two grand being a waste of money incidentally; not the acquiring of this publication generally...

Priorities? Yes & no. If this is the only Tolkien publication you don't have then I can see why you might pay over the odds to get your grubby hands on it. However there's a line, & when people cross it (i.e. pay way too much cash) I think other collectors have to be honest & say such-&-such a purchase was plain madness!

BH

I have a copy of Leeds University Verse - paid a lot of money for it, many years ago (though nothing like £1999). Mine's in better condition than the one for sale here - that one looks faded.

Mind you; I've also bought several items very cheaply over the years; so I'm happy that it all works out in the end.

This vendor has two first edition Hobbits - here's a link to one of them:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/TOLKIEN-THE-H ... tible&hash=item1c2b380bbf

Part of the rather over-excited spiel runs:

"The endpapers (maps) have been removed. It has no flaws to mention. The pages are bright and all present – including the two pages of advertisements - a flawless copy! "

Now, while I don't want an irate vendor to come running in here, flinging monkey-poo - - I do have a question: how can a 1st ed. Hobbit with the maps removed be a flawless copy? oh, and how come he's asking such silly prices?

As a matter of interest has anyone got a copy of this verses book already?

I have now

Congrats. 1,020.00 GBP ($1,638.43)

Too rich for my blood.

well done trotter
i had a feeling you may go for it
suprised didnt go for more.
What are you missing now?