r/BookCollecting

These Ace Books copies were the first U.S. paperback editions of The Lord of the Rings, but they were unauthorized, some call them bootleg or pirated editions. But they were not the first U.S. editions overall, since the hardcovers were already out before them, but still a pretty fascinating piece of Tolkien publishing history. Honestly, that just makes me like them even more. The covers are amazing and they have that perfect old-school fantasy paperback feel. Need to collect the first edition as well just to make a collection complete.

Hi! Hopefully I’m in the right place for this. I run a small ebay page on the side and came across this interesting book.

Inside is a personal note from the authors with their signatures and it is addressed to Brigadier General Fogle who was also a decorated WW2 pilot. Dust cover isn’t in very good condition but book itself looks okay.

I have looked around online and the only other comparable sale I can see is a copy signed by both authors and Erich Hartmann who is the subject of the book. Haven’t seen any like this.

No clue where to begin with this so I’d appreciate any input!

I collect Peerage and Baronetage books. Apart from Burke’s, the most famous series is Debrett’s.  In the early 1900s, they released two versions of each edition – a standard trade copy and a deluxe library edition. 

The Standard Copy. This one is a beast.  The binding is a bright red cloth over thick boards with detailed, shallow-blocked gilt heraldic decorations.  It’s got that classic "over-the-top" late Victorian flair. 

The Deluxe Version. This one is bound in limp maroon Morocco leather.  It features understated gilt-stamped titles, all edges gilt, and gilt dentelles on the inner covers.  It’s significantly smaller thanks to the use of premium India paper.

The Dilemma. Most of my copies are the standard version – they’re far more common and easier to find.  I think it would take me forever to collect a full run in the deluxe style. I like the "loud" decoration on the standard book, while the leather one looks a bit boring in comparison. But the feel of the leather and those gold edges are undeniably high-class.

The Question. If you were building a library, which style would you rather have?  Do you prefer the bold, pictorial cloth or the quiet luxury of the leather?

(Yes, in this instance the deluxe version is in better condition.)

Thought I’d start digging out more books… forgot I have a few Easton Press that I picked up for buttons back in the day. Not sure if they’re worth much but they sure are tactile.

All of my current books, Im unsure if this is allowed or whatever but I just wanted to share as Im proud of it

I can't find what year this edition was printed. Possible book club edition?