Star Trek ##39
Whitman / Gold Key Comics • Star Trek Vol. 1
Writer
Arnold Drake
Interior Artist
Alden McWilliams
Cover Artist
George Wilson
Publication Date
August 1976
Cover Variant
Whitman Variant
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Title story: 'The Slavers of Thon.' Captain Kirk and the crew of the Enterprise investigate a mysterious planetary system where they encounter telepathic aliens and a plot involving suspended animation (Frozen Sleep).
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine+ (CGC 6.5)
Condition Details
Visible moderate spine stressors (ticks) along the left edge. Minor corner blunting at the top right and bottom left. Slight surface wear on the dark background areas and minor edge wear. Colors remain vibrant and centering is good.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $30.00 - $60.00; Graded (CGC 7.0+): $120.00 - $180.00
Recent Sales
Recent Whitman #39 sales in mid-to-high grade have fluctuated between $40 and $75 raw. Typical Gold Key versions sell for slightly less.
Grading Recommendation
Optional. While Whitman variants of this era are more scarce than their Gold Key counterparts, the current condition (mid-grade) may not yield a significant financial return after grading fees. Worth grading only for a personal collection or if it might press up to a 7.5+.
Notable Features
Whitman Variant (identified by the 'W' logo in the top left corner instead of the Gold Key logo). This issue is known for its striking sci-fi cover art by George Wilson and is part of the original Star Trek comic run licensed from Paramount.
Authentication Notes
The comic appears authentic with correct 25-cent price point for the 1976 period. The Whitman logo is correctly positioned and the print registration on the title logo looks consistent with Western Publishing standards of the time.