SMITH, Edward E. (1890-1965). The "Lensman" Series / History of Civilization. Reading, PA / Hicksville, NY, 1948-[1962].

SMITH, Edward E. (1890-1965). The Complete "Lensman" Series. Reading, PA / Hicksville, NY: Fantasy Press / Gnome Press, 1948-[1962]. 8vos. Complete in six volumes. All in publisher's bindings and dust jackets. FIRST EDITIONS OF FIVE VOLUMES, TWO SIGNED OR INSCRIBED, ONE IS THE GNOME PRESS REPRINT. Titles include: Triplanetary. Fantasy Press, 1948. Signed by Smith on the half-title. [And:] First Lensman. Fantasy Press, 1950. Signed limited edition, #310/500, inscribed to Peter Crawford. Jacket worn, chipped, with tape repairs on front, gutter after half-title cracking. [And:] Galactic Patrol. Fantasy Press, 1950. Jacket a bit sunned, occasionally chipped. [And:] Gray Lensman. Gnome Press reprint (1962; even though this is stated "First Edition," this is a reprint by Gnome Press). Jacket price-clipped. [And:] Second Stage Lensman. Fantasy Press, [1953]. Jacket price-clipped, some soiling to jacket. [And:] Children of the Lens. Fantasy Press, [1954]. Jacket price-clipped, somewhat foxed.

"The greatest of the early golden age space opera." (Anatomy of Wonder, 3-355.) "The space opera to end all space operas, with humans and aliens arrayed (some on each side) in a cosmic war of Good and Evil, which even George Lucas would be hard put to top." (Anatomy of Wonder, 3-167.)

Condition

Some general wear, soiling, a few volumes with tape repairs. Jackets unclipped unless otherwise noted. Generally very good.