A first edition set of The Lord of the Rings, with a second impression 'Fellowship of the Ring' (1954), a first impression 'The Two Towers' (1954), and a first impression 'Return of the King' (1955). Tolkien’s epic fantasy masterpiece has not only become the centrepiece of the history of modern fantasy writing, but has claimed a place within the history of literature more generally for Tolkien's contributions to the formation of a new Anglo-Saxon mythology, as well as his vital contributions to language and literary translation. Drawing on Norse oral histories and early storytelling, the work helped to establish key tropes in the English language, such as treasure hoarding dragons, forest dwelling elves and magical jewels, pulling Norse myths back into the modern fantastical imagination. The First Editions of these books are exceedingly rare in early impressions with original dust jackets. Only 2,500 copies of the second impression of The Fellowship of the Ring were ever printed, with 3,250 copies printed in the first impression of The Two Towers and 7,500 copies for the first impression of Return of the King, making this a truly very scarce and collectable set. The books are fine internally, with minimal discolouration, maps attached to the back of each volume. Small white mark to the front board of 'Fellowship'. Gilt to boards is still bright and boards are clean. Original unrestored jackets in fair condition, with discolouration to the spine and some loss to extremities. The back jacket leaf has detached from the spine of 'Fellowship' and 'Return of the King'. A light stain to the front of 'Two Towers'.