Gunsmoke ##21
Gold Key Comics (Western Publishing) • Gunsmoke Vol. 1
Writer
Paul S. Newman (attributed)
Interior Artist
Alberto Giolitti
Cover Artist
Photo Cover (Marshall Matt Dillon played by James Arness)
Publication Date
January 1969
Cover Variant
Regular
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Based on the long-running CBS television series. Features Marshall Matt Dillon in 'The Trial of Matt Dillon.' Includes backup stories and western-themed educational pages.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good/Fine (CGC 5.0)
Condition Details
Visible spine stress, moderate corner blunting, possible small creases on right-hand side, and slight yellowing of the cover edges consistent with Silver Age paper quality.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $10 - $25; Graded: $60 - $85
Recent Sales
Similar Gold Key photo-cover westerns from the late 60s consistently sell in the $15 range for mid-grade raw copies.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of CGC/CBCS services would likely exceed the market value of a mid-grade Western comic from this era.
Notable Features
Photo cover of James Arness; 15-cent cover price; 'The biggest gamble in town—Matt Dillon's life!' tag line.
Authentication Notes
Authentic Gold Key publication. Displays correct matte paper stock, distinct Gold Key logo/branding, and period-accurate color saturation for 1969.