Tarzan of the Apes ##191
Gold Key (Western Publishing) • Tarzan of the Apes (Gold Key Series)
Writer
Gaylord DuBois
Interior Artist
Doug Wildey
Cover Artist
George Wilson
Publication Date
September 1970
Cover Variant
Regular/A Cover (Gold Key Logo)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Features the story 'The Lions of Cathne,' which is an adaptation of Edgar Rice Burroughs' novel 'Tarzan and the City of Gold.' The story follows Tarzan as he encounters the city of Cathne and their trained fighting lions. The issue also includes a backup story, 'The Brothers of the Spear.'
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Good/Very Good (CGC 3.0)
Condition Details
Visible spine rollout; significant color-breaking spine stress/ticks; heavy corner blunting and creasing (bottom right/top right); edge wear and minor chipping along the bottom edge; surface scuffing and overall loss of cover gloss; potential foxing or tanning consistent with age.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5 - $12; Graded (CGC 3.0): $25 - $40 (Market value for this issue is generally low due to high print volume and moderate demand).
Recent Sales
Comparable ‘Good’ to ‘Very Good’ copies of this issue typically sell for $3 to $8 on secondary auction sites. Higher grade VF/NM copies can reach $50+.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The grading fees would significantly exceed the final market value of the book in this condition. This is best kept as a reader copy or in a protective bag and board.
Notable Features
Painted cover by well-known artist George Wilson. Adapts the novel 'Tarzan and the City of Gold.' Gold Key ‘Collector’s Edition’ branding on the cover footer.
Authentication Notes
The wear patterns, paper oxidation consistent with 1970 pulp, and specific 'Gold Key' trade dress (15c price point) indicate this is an authentic original printing. No evidence of reproduction is visible.