Item Report
Conan The Barbarian King-Size Special #1 Comic Book
By: Marvel Comics Group (cover art by Barry Windsor-Smith)
Style: Vintage American Comic Book
Origin: United States
Materials: Newsprint paper, colored ink
Age: 1973
Condition: Very Fine (light corner and edge wear visible, not officially graded, presents well for age)
Value: $50–$120 (raw, ungraded copy in Very Fine/Fine condition; higher values if professionally graded and near mint)
Maker's Marks / Writing: Marvel Comics Group, Comics Code Authority stamp, Barry Windsor-Smith signature in artwork.
Date: 2025-06-20 20:14:19.654924
Description:
This is a vintage American comic book titled 'Conan The Barbarian King-Size Special Issue #1,' published by Marvel Comics in 1973. The cover features a bold, detailed illustration of Conan amidst a battlefield, rendered by noted comic artist Barry Windsor-Smith. This issue was marketed as a 'Special Academy Award Issue' and contains two major Conan stories. Notable features include the 'King-Size' format, original 35-cent cover price, and the Comics Code Authority stamp. The piece is a collectible due to its age, character franchise, and the recognized illustrators associated with the Conan comics of this period.
Curator Questions
Curated by Jade
Assessment:
A desirable Bronze Age Marvel comic tied to the popular Conan franchise. The cover art, historical context, and its King-Size special status make it appealing to collectors. Condition and the absence of official grading (e.g., CGC) impact the value, but the comic displays strong eye appeal for its age.
Individual Images:
- No detail images are provided
- but the visible front cover has strong color retention and minimal spine creasing; corners appear slightly blunted but no major tears or stains are seen. Overall
- the comic appears well-preserved for a 1970s newsprint issue.
Provenance:
No provenance documents or receipts provided.
Condition:
Very Fine (light corner and edge wear visible, not officially graded, presents well for age)
Identification Score: 98%
The issue is clearly identified as Conan The Barbarian King-Size Special #1, published by Marvel in 1973, based on the visible title, issue/price box, and recognizable cover art attributed to Barry Windsor-Smith.
Authenticity Score: 92%
The printing details, logo, price, and overall appearance are consistent with originals from this era. There are no major signs of reproduction or reprint in the photo, though without examining the interior or back cover, a small chance of being a modern facsimile remains.
Image Memory Note
This is the 1973 Marvel Comics 'Conan The Barbarian King-Size Special #1'; key identifiers include the year, 35¢ cover price, and Barry Windsor-Smith art, in attractive condition with good cover gloss.
Keywords
Conan, Marvel Comics, Bronze Age, 1973, King-Size Special, Barry Windsor-Smith, American comic book, collectible
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