Second edition, first impression; fifth impression overall. Published in an edition of 3,500 copies in July 1951. Inscribed by Christopher and Faith Tolkien to the front blank, To Robert & Angela, dated September 1953. Ownership inscription of Simon Burns-Cox above, his initials in biro to the front endpaper. Lacking the dust wrapper. Publisher's green cloth, a little faded and bumped to the joints and spine ends, the edges similarly a little faded; the corners a touch frayed and bumped. One or two marks to the front board, the rear board with a few larger marks. The hinges loose and the binding a little tender. A tear to the bottom of p. 92, some loss to the edge of p. 98, scattered marks and spots throughout. Inscribed by the author's son Christopher Tolkien, known for continuing weaving together the Legendarium of Middle-Earth; this is an early and unusual association copy, gifted by the author's son and later editor.