7 June
2024-6-7 6:45:58 PM UTC
Hello, I apologize if this question has already been discussed on this forum, but I couldn't find anything using the search function. I could use some of your collective expertise in identifying which impression of RotK I have. I know it is a US first edition, and I have narrowed it down to a 4th or 5th print (thanks to Tolkienbooks.us!) as there is no date or impression list. Can someone give me some pointers in differentiating the two impressions? I can upload pictures later today if that would be helpful. Thank you
7 June
2024-6-7 7:46:35 PM UTC
Hi! And welcome to the site, glad to have you.
If you are certain it is between 4th/5th based on your prior research, this should be an easy way to tell which you have: on Page 188 at the top, the "S" in Sam is damaged in the 4th impression but fixed in the 5th.
4th impression picture shown here.
7 June
2024-6-7 8:42:07 PM UTC
Hi, Urulókë, and thank you! Mine would appear to be a 4th impression then.
7 June
2024-6-7 9:08:13 PM UTC
I just received the book last night, and hadn't had a chance to look at it more until now. I'm quite bummed to discover that the jacket isn't original to the book. After taking it out of the plastic it is clearly a photocopy on cheap paper. Luckily the seller was apologetic and understanding given he was as ignorant of the fake jacket as I was. Oh well, still cool to have a 4th impression though!
8 June
2024-6-8 2:18:27 PM UTC
One more quick question for you all regarding this book. The top edge is dyed yellow, is that normal for earlier impressions or unique to this print? I have later impressions of FotR and TT, and neither of them have a dyed top edge.
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