A charity shopper bought an old hardback edition of J.R.R. Tolkien's The Hobbit for just £2 and soon realised it might be worth far more. The find was a green hardcover with black detailing, a second edition from 1961.
Reddit post sparks valuation discussion
The shopper posted on Reddit's charity shop finds forum, showing photos of the book and its publication details. They asked whether the book was rare or valuable, noting money was tight and they might sell it. The post read: "Did I just find £2 gold??"
Comments suggest high value
Other users weighed in on the book's worth. One commenter cited an eBay sale of the same edition in worse condition for £80, and another listing at £800 (deemed overpriced). They estimated the shopper's copy, in good condition without a dust jacket, could sell for £200 or more. Another user pointed to recent eBay sales of a 2nd edition, 13th impression without a dust jacket for £140 and £119.99, with the shopper's copy appearing in better condition.
A third recommended finding a specialist rare book dealer, adding: "I don't trust eBay prices - a listing price is not always what it sells for. You could get some quick cash if that's what you need."
