There seem to be several stores which are making available singed copies by Alan Lee the illustrator. That does not seem to be the problem. However, the sought after signature seems to be that of Christopher Tolkien. The solution to this lack of availability rests completely in his hands. There will be as many signed bookplates available as CT deems there will be. Mr. Tolkien is in his 80's and probably is not eager to sign thousands of bookplates in time for the release date in Mid April.
As a solution perhaps he could be convinced to sing more bookplates over time, say a few hundred a month and make them available as needed selling just one or two to collectors. This would keep availability at a high level while keeping the scalpers at bay and keeping the price affordable. In addition to his fine work as editor and keeper of the flame, this would be a great service to his public.
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