Description
Here is a 1st edition, 1st printing of Cowardly Lion of Oz, copyright 1923 by Reilly & Lee and authored by Ruth Plumly Thompson. With 12 full-color plates and black and white illustrated endpapers by John R. Neill. This first printing with the non-standard ampersand on the spine, and with plates coated only on the front side. Points from The Book Collector’s Guide to Baum.
The cover pastedown has some wear as shown and alas, there is a bite and chew marks at the top of the front board (cover). Perhaps Toto got mad that Thompson didn’t name an Oz book for him? Inside is in very good condition with all 12 color plates present and in very good condition. Front hinge starting to split a little at base; rear hinge tight, age toning and former owner’s name with some erasure marks to front endpaper. Book Belongs To page also with name. Other pages all in nice condition overall with light wear.