BLACK BELT #Vol. 17, No. 4 (Issue #159)
Rainbow Publications / Black Belt Communications • Black Belt Magazine
Writer
Bruce Lee (featured columnist), Various Editorial Staff
Interior Artist
Photographers/Staff Illustrators
Cover Artist
Undeclared Graphic Silhouette
Publication Date
April 1979
Cover Variant
Regular Edition (Newsstand with UPC)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
A martial arts enthusiast magazine featuring an article by Bruce Lee regarding fighting strategy. This issue focuses on 'Zen and Karate', 'Internal Energy', and 'First Aid for Martial Artists'.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Good/Very Good (3.0 - 4.0)
Condition Details
Significant visible wear including heavy spine stress and splitting, color-breaking creases across the cover, blunted corners, vertical crease throughout the right side, and a handwritten '4' in ink on the top cover. Visible edge wear and surface scuffing.
Estimated Market Value
$20.00 - $45.00 (Raw); $100.00+ if graded (unlikely due to current low grade)
Recent Sales
Comparable copies of late 1970s Bruce Lee featured issues sell between $15 and $50 depending on the specific column content and overall aesthetic wear.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The current physical condition (approx. 3.0-4.0) won't yield a high enough ROI relative to grading fees. It is best kept as a reading copy or personal collectible.
Notable Features
Includes a recurring column by Bruce Lee on Fighting Strategy (posthumous publication of his notes/philosophies); features a silhouette action cover; Newsstand Edition with UPC barcode.
Authentication Notes
Authentic 1979 magazine printing. Paper stock shows natural oxidation (yellowing) consistent with late 70s newsprint-style interiors and coated cover stock of that era. Ink density on the masthead and UPC alignment are standard for Rainbow Publications.