Fighting Arts #Volume 1, Issue 1
Rainbow Publications (Black Belt Magazine) • Fighting Arts Magazine
Writer
Various (John T. McGee, Teddy Limoz contributors)
Interior Artist
N/A (Photographs)
Cover Artist
N/A (Photo Cover)
Publication Date
March 1976
Cover Variant
Regular/Standard Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
This is a martial arts magazine featuring a Bruce Lee cover story. Key articles include 'How to Train For The Death Touch' by John T. McGee, a focus on Kali (Rhythm, Weapons, and Death Matches), and full-contact reports on Karriem Allah vs. Jeff Smith and Joe Lewis.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good (CGC 4.0)
Condition Details
Moderate spine roll and heavy spine stress with color-breaking ticks; significant corner blunting and minor paper loss on edges; visible creasing on the bottom right corner; some surface scuffing and overall wear consistent with its age and magazine-size format.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $15 - $30; Graded (if attainable High Grade): $75 - $125
Recent Sales
Comparable issues of early 1970s martial arts magazines (like Black Belt or Fighting Stars) in mid-grade typically sell for $10 to $25. Premiere issues of secondary titles occasionally fetch a premium from Bruce Lee completionists.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The current condition (approx. 4.0 range) does not justify the costs of CGC/CBCS grading fees. It is best kept as a raw collectible in a magazine-sized bag and board.
Notable Features
Premiere Issue (No. 1); Iconic Bruce Lee cover; 1970s Martial Arts boom era artifact; features articles on death touch (Dim Mak) which was a popular topic in 70s pop culture.
Authentication Notes
Authentic 1976 publication. Shows correct age-appropriate paper oxidation (yellowing) on edges. Top staple placement and magazine-style binding are consistent with Rainbow Publications' output of the period.