The Green Hornet ##1
Gold Key Comics • The Green Hornet (1967 Series)
Writer
Paul S. Newman
Interior Artist
Dan Spiegle
Cover Artist
Photo Cover (Van Williams as Green Hornet and Bruce Lee as Kato)
Publication Date
February 1967
Cover Variant
Regular
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
First issue of the Gold Key series based on the 1966 television show. Features Britt Reid as the Green Hornet and his valet Kato. This issue contains the story 'The Red Dragon' where the duo combats a ruthless gang and a criminal mastermind.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Good (CGC 2.0)
Condition Details
The cover shows heavy wear including multiple color-breaking spine stresses and cracks. There is a significant piece of the front cover missing at the bottom-left spine corner (approx. 1 inch). Visible vertical and horizontal creasing across the center and bottom. Top right corner has a small diagonal fold. Significant edge wear and surface scuffing visible throughout.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $50 - $100 / Graded (CGC 2.0): $120 - $160
Recent Sales
Recent sales for grade 2.0 to 3.0 range from $65 to $110. In contrast, CGC 9.0+ copies can exceed $1,500 due to the high demand for early Bruce Lee collectibles.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading in this condition. The cost of grading (CGC/CBCS fees plus shipping) would likely exceed the value added to a 2.0 grade book. While it is a major key, professional grading is usually reserved for copies in 'Very Fine' condition or higher to maximize return on investment.
Notable Features
Major silver age key. This issue is highly collectible as it features the first comic book appearance of Kato as portrayed by Bruce Lee. It is an iconic photo cover featuring both Van Williams and Bruce Lee.
Authentication Notes
The 12c price point and the '10202-702' product code are correct for the original 1967 printing. The internal paper tanning visible at the edges and the specific wear patterns on the cover indicate a genuine vintage copy from the period.