The Hobbit
High Fantasy Adventure Fantasy Children's Fantasy Illustrated Classics Collectible Editions Middle-earth Fiction
The Folio Society’s 1997 hardcover of The Hobbit is the edition that turns a childhood classic into a centerpiece for any collector’s shelf. Bound in heavyweight cloth and housed in a matching slipcase, this oversized volume is illustrated throughout by the celebrated artist Eric Fraser, whose muted, woodcut-style plates capture Bilbo’s journey from the Shire to the Lonely Mountain in a way no mass-market printing can match. Every spread feels like a framed piece of fantasy art, making the book as much a visual adventure as Tolkien’s text itself.
What makes this copy especially attractive is its condition: crisp pages, tight binding, and no smoke or shelf wear—exactly the quality collectors look for when they search “Folio Society Hobbit near-mint.” Because the 1997 print run was modest and is now long out of print, clean copies surface rarely and command a premium on the secondary market. Owning one today means holding a piece of Tolkien publishing history that will only appreciate in value and desirability.
Parents, teachers, and gift-givers searching for “illustrated Hobbit for ages 9-12” will appreciate that the large pages and generous art invite new readers into Middle-earth without overwhelming them, while adult fans who already own paperbacks will love upgrading to a volume sturdy enough for bedtime readings and display. Whether you’re completing a Folio Society Lord of the Rings set, hunting for the perfect introduction to Tolkien for a young reader, or simply want a smoke-free, beautifully preserved collectible, this edition checks every box—and keeps its magic intact for the next generation.
Refer to our eBay listing for a full condition report and many more high-quality pictures of this item.
Buy Now