An incredibly rare first edition of J.R.R. Tolkien’s classic, The Hobbit, was unexpectedly discovered during a routine house clearance in Bristol, ultimately fetching an impressive £43,000 at auction.
The book is one of only 1,500 copies originally printed in September 1937, making it highly sought after by collectors and fans alike, according to auctioneers Auctioneum.
A private UK-based collector secured the edition at a Bath auction, as reported by Bristol Live.
READ MORE: Alan Davies, Susie Wolff and More Lead Bath Literature Festival’s Star-Studded Autumn Lineup
READ MORE: World-Renowned Dance DJs Headline Electric Night at Taunton’s Bar 61
Caitlin Riley, a specialist at Auctioneum, said, “This is the quintessential auction story—finding a rare treasure hidden in plain sight. House clearances are often stressful and overwhelming; this is the perfect example of why expert evaluation matters. This book could so easily have been forgotten or even discarded.”
She added, “The enduring love for Tolkien’s work is remarkable. Written nearly 90 years ago, The Hobbit continues to captivate readers who seek an escape into its fantastical world. Clearly, fans today are willing to pay a premium for such unique artifacts.”
The book was discovered in the personal library of Hubert Priestley, a respected 1930s botanist and brother to Antarctic explorer Sir Raymond Edward Priestley. After the owner passed away, Auctioneum was called in to evaluate the estate.
Hidden in an old bookcase among common titles, the edition initially appeared ordinary. Caitlin recalled, “When I first saw the book’s distinctive cover, I knew it had to be an early Hobbit. As I examined it closely, I realized it was a genuine first edition. My heart was pounding—this was an unimaginably rare find!”
Following the auction announcement, Auctioneum received hundreds of inquiries from around the globe. The final sale price, including the buyer’s premium fee, totaled £52,000.
Auctioneum noted that both Priestley and Tolkien corresponded with famed author C.S. Lewis and had strong links to Oxford University, suggesting a possible acquaintance between Priestley and Tolkien.
Reflecting on the discovery, Caitlin said, “Just weeks ago, this book sat unnoticed on a Bristol bookshelf. Now it’s making headlines worldwide. The provenance and connection to Tolkien make this edition incredibly special—not just any first edition, but one linked to someone who likely knew the author personally.”