Buck Rogers in the 25th Century ##13
Whitman / Gold Key (Western Publishing) • Buck Rogers in the 25th Century (1979 Series)
Writer
Uncredited (likely Paul S. Newman)
Interior Artist
Frank Bolle
Cover Artist
Identification from style suggests a staff artist for Western Publishing
Publication Date
October 1980
Cover Variant
Whitman Edition (Logo variant)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Based on the 1979 television series starring Gil Gerard. In this issue, titled 'The Punishment Machine', Buck Rogers navigates a space-bound conflict involving a pilot in a circular inset view. The story continues the space-opera adventures of the 20th-century pilot awakened in the future.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good (CGC 4.0)
Condition Details
Visible spine stress ticks along the left edge, corner blunting on the top and bottom right, edge wear, and possible surface scuffing/shelf wear. The copy shows clear signs of handling and storage wear.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5 - $10; Graded (9.0+): $40 - $60
Recent Sales
Similar raw Whitman copies of late-run Buck Rogers typically sell for $3 to $12 depending on condition. High-grade slabbed copies are rare but maintain modest values.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of CGC/CBCS fees would exceed the market value of the comic in this condition grade (approx. 4.0). Best kept in a fresh bag and board for personal collection.
Notable Features
This is a Whitman variant, characterized by the Whitman logo in the top left corner instead of the Gold Key logo. These were often sold in multi-packs or through department stores rather than typical newsstands. Features a photo-realistic art style designed to mimic the TV show aesthetic.
Authentication Notes
Authentic Whitman publication from 1980. Displays correct period-specific numbering (90128-110) and the 50-cent price point consistent with Western Publishing's distribution during that year.