The Green Hornet ##1
Gold Key Comics (Western Publishing) • The Green Hornet (1967 Series)
Writer
Paul S. Newman
Interior Artist
Dan Spiegle
Cover Artist
Photo Cover (Van Williams as Green Hornet / Bruce Lee as Kato)
Publication Date
February 1967
Cover Variant
Regular Edition (Gold Key Logo)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
First issue of the comic series based on the 1966 television series. Features Britt Reid as the Green Hornet and Bruce Lee in his legendary role as Kato. The story follows them as they combat a ruthless criminal gang.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Good / Very Good (CGC 3.0)
Condition Details
Moderate to heavy spine stress with color breaking; heavy vertical and horizontal creasing particularly visible on the left side of the character's coat; corner blunting and rounding at all four corners; surface wear and minor scuffing; possible moisture rippling or warping; 12c price indicates it is likely the standard edition.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $80 - $150 | Graded (estimated 3.0): $175 - $250
Recent Sales
Recent sales of raw mid-low grade copies range from $75 to $200. High-grade (9.0+) copies of this Silver Age key can exceed $1,500 due to Bruce Lee's enduring popularity.
Grading Recommendation
Optional. While this is the most sought-after issue of the series (key first issue), the current visible damage (heavy creasing) suggests a low technical grade. Grading only recommended if the owner wishes to preserve the item for a Bruce Lee collection; value increase may not exceed the cost of grading in this specific condition.
Notable Features
First appearance of The Green Hornet and Kato in Gold Key Comics; iconic photo cover featuring Bruce Lee; 12c cover price; Gold Key logo in top left; no barcode (standard for era); key Silver Age cross-media collectible.
Authentication Notes
The logo placement, font, and 12-cent price mark appear consistent with original 1967 Gold Key production. The paper aging/tanning visible on the edges is consistent with Silver Age stock.