Two-Gun Kid ##77
Marvel Comics • Two-Gun Kid Vol. 1
Writer
Stan Lee
Interior Artist
Dick Ayers
Cover Artist
Jack Kirby and Dick Ayers
Publication Date
September 1965
Cover Variant
Regular
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
The Two-Gun Kid faces a costumed villain known as The Panther (not T'Challa, but a Western-themed predecessor). The story 'The Panther Will Get You' features the Kid defending a town against a masked antagonist who uses agility and stealth to commit crimes.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good (CGC 4.0)
Condition Details
Moderate spine stress and localized creasing, noticeable tanning/yellowing of the cover paper, corner blunting, possible small tears along the edges under the bag, and handwritten ink notation ('Black Panther Villain') on the front cover which significantly impacts the eye appeal.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $30 - $50 | Graded (estimated @ 4.0): $80 - $110
Recent Sales
Recent 4.5 graded copies have sold between $100-$130; raw copies with writing on cover typically trade in the low-to-mid grade range of $25-$45.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The handwritten ink on the cover ('Black Panther Villain') is a major detractor that will result in a lower grade or a 'Qualified' label. The cost of grading would likely exceed the immediate market value gain for this specific issue.
Notable Features
This issue is notable for featuring an early iteration of a 'Panther' character at Marvel, predating T'Challa's debut in Fantastic Four #52 by nearly a year. The handwritten note on the cover indicates a collector's identification of this character connection.
Authentication Notes
Appears to be an authentic 1965 12-cent silver age copy. The paper shows natural age-related oxidation 'browning' consistent with Marvel stock of the era. The printing registration on the red masthead and the Comics Code Authority seal align with authentic production methods.