Did Bilbo Leave Smaug’s Treasure Behind When He Left the Lonely Mountain?

The tale of Bilbo Baggins and his adventurous quest in the world of The Hobbit has captivated countless readers and moviegoers. Among the many intriguing plot details, one often raises questions: did Bilbo leave Smaug’s treasure behind when he left the Lonely Mountain? This article will explore the facts behind this fascinating query.

The Journey of Two Chests of Treasure

Bilbo Baggins embarked on an expedition to reclaim the treasure from the dragon, Smaug, hoarding within the Lonely Mountain. By the end of his journey, he emerged victorious in the Battle of the Five Armies, a significant confrontation that ultimately led to Smaug’s demise. Despite his triumphant return with treasures, little did Bilbo suspect that he would soon be embroiled in another struggle for ownership.

Exceptional Gifts

During his adventures, Bilbo acquired several significant treasures. However, his return was not without complications. The two most notable gifts are:

The Bejeweled Mithril Armor Coat

A precious gift from Thorin Oakenshield, Bilbo received the bejeweled mithril armor coat along with a helmet. This formidable attire is not only a testament to Thorin’s gratitude and friendship but also a symbol of the respect and camaraderie between Bilbo and the dwarves.

Small Coffers Full of Silver and Gold

Bilbo also received from Bard the Bowman a small coffer filled with silver and another with gold. These offerings were Bard’s way of thanking Bilbo for his contributions and his crucial role in the battle against Smaug. Bard’s rewards underscore the importance of Bilbo’s actions in returning the Arkenstone, a valuable artifact that ultimately saved lives and triggered the battle that led to Smaug’s defeat.

Return to the Shire and Legal Battles

Upon returning to the Shire, Bilbo encountered another surprising turn of events. His home and many of its contents were being auctioned due to his absence. In an ironic twist, Bilbo had to buy his own property back to rehabilitate his home and belongings. These legal battles highlighted the complexities of property rights and the value of the treasures Bilbo had taken during his adventures, even if they were meant to be shared or given away.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Bilbo did take a significant amount of treasure from Smaug’s hoard, but his journey was far from simple. The gifts he received from Bifu bejeweled mithril armor and small coffer full of silver and gold, were invaluable and meaningful gifts. It is important to remember that these treasures played significant roles in Bilbo’s life and the broader story of The Hobbit.