Gunsmoke ##14
Gold Key (Western Publishing) • Gunsmoke Vol. 1
Writer
Paul S. Newman
Interior Artist
Alberto Giolitti
Cover Artist
Photo Cover
Publication Date
April 1969
Cover Variant
Regular/A Cover
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Features a photo of James Arness as Matt Dillon and Ken Curtis as Festus. The storyline involves Matt Dillon being tricked into sending Festus on a dangerous errand. Gold Key TV tie-ins like this are known for their use of television stills on the covers.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good (CGC 4.0)
Condition Details
Visible glare from polybag, but notable spine stress ticks, significant blunting on the bottom right corner, and minor edge wear on the left side. Noticeable crease lines on the right side of the cover. Probable tanning of interior pages typical for late 60s Gold Key stock.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $10 - $25; Graded: $45 - $70
Recent Sales
Copies in mid-grade (4.0 - 6.0) have recently sold between $12 and $30 on auction sites depending on eye appeal.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The costs of grading would likely exceed the final market value of a mid-grade 1960s TV tie-in comic.
Notable Features
Photo cover of the original TV cast; 15 cent original cover price; Gold Key logo and '10228-904' series code visible top left.
Authentication Notes
Authentic Gold Key publication. Flat matte finish typical of 1969 stock; staples appear centered and age-appropriate with no visible bleeding or rust transfer to the cover.