TARZAN OF THE APES ##181
Gold Key Comics / Western Publishing • Tarzan of the Apes (Gold Key Series)
Writer
Gaylord DuBois
Interior Artist
Doug Wildey
Cover Artist
George Wilson (painted cover)
Publication Date
October 1968
Cover Variant
Regular/Gold Key Logo (15c price point)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Features Tarzan and Pellucidar in a story titled 'Tarzan at the Earth's Core'. This issue is an adaptation of the Edgar Rice Burroughs novel involving a primeval land. Key characters include Tarzan and the inhabitants of Pellucidar.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fair/Good (CGC 1.5)
Condition Details
Extensive surface damage visible with multiple instances of paper loss/tears on the front cover, specifically in the bear's torso and the word 'LOST'. Heavy spine stress, color-breaking creases across the bottom right, corner blunting, and edge wear. A price sticker ($1.00) is affixed directly to the cover surface. Gloss is heavily compromised.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $2.00 - $5.00 | Graded: Not recommended due to damage; value would likely be less than the cost of grading fees.
Recent Sales
Copies in mid-grade (VF 8.0) sell for $20-$30. Low-grade copies like this are typically found in 'dollar bins' due to extensive cover detachment risks and surface paper loss.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of CGC or CBCS services ($30+) significantly exceeds the current market value of this specific copy. It is best enjoyed as a reader copy or filler.
Notable Features
Painted cover by George Wilson. Based on the Burroughs series 'Tarzan at the Earth\'s Core'. No UPC (standard for Gold Key of this era). 'Collector\'s Edition' branding on cover.
Authentication Notes
The paper stock, 'Gold Key' logo style, and 15-cent price point are consistent with late 1960s Western Publishing production. No signs of restoration detected, though the condition is poor.