Red Ryder Comics ##103
Dell Publishing • Red Ryder Comics
Writer
Paul S. Newman (attributed)
Interior Artist
Fred Meagher
Cover Artist
Photo Cover (Likely Allan "Rocky" Lane and Bobby Blake)
Publication Date
February 1952
Cover Variant
Regular
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Western adventure featuring Red Ryder and his sidekick, Little Beaver. Based on the long-running newspaper strip by Fred Harman. Tales usually involve protecting the frontier or ranch-based detective work.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Good (CGC 2.0)
Condition Details
Significant edge wear, multiple small tears and chips along the right edge, spine roll, prominent creasing, visible rounding of corners, and aging/tanning of the cover stock. A price sticker is applied to the bottom left outer bag which may obscure minor scuffing.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5.00 - $12.00; Graded (CGC 2.0): $30.00 - $45.00
Recent Sales
Recent sales of similar Golden Age western comics in low-grade condition typically range from $3 to $15 depending on the collector interest. Higher grade copies (VF 8.0+) can reach $100+.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of CGC/CBCS grading fees (approx. $25-$35 + shipping) exceeds the current market value of the comic in its current condition.
Notable Features
Features a 'Photo Cover' which was a common Dell marketing strategy in the early 1950s using stills from the cinematic adaptations. No UPC (pre-dates barcodes). 10-cent cover price.
Authentication Notes
Consistent with Dell Publishing production from the early 1950s. The paper stock shows natural oxidation (browning) expected from wood-pulp based paper of that era. Dell logo placement in upper left is correct.