Bronze Age Marvel 'Conan the Barbarian' #24 Comic Book
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Original Presentation Script
Let's delve into a mesmerizing piece of comic book history: an original copy of 'Conan the Barbarian' issue #24. This is not just any comic book but a cornerstone of the Bronze Age — a dynamic fusion of storytelling and artistry, wrapped in the allure of a bygone era. The pages hold the debut of Red Sonja, a character who, like her counterpart Conan, has etched her name into the annals of graphic storytelling. Now over half a century old, this comic is a canvas of cultural significance. Published in March 1973 by the iconic Marvel Comics, it belongs to a transformative period known as the Bronze Age of comic books — a time when narratives grew bolder and heroes more complex. For collectors, it's not merely a relic but a milestone in the saga of modern mythology. The construction is classic for its time, a staple-bound amalgam of paper and ink, flourishing with Barry Windsor-Smith's action-packed artistry that has become a hallmark of the genre. Every brush stroke of ink and stapled spine speaks to the craftsmanship of an era. Yet, like all vintage treasures, it bears the marks of time. Though the colors remain vivid, there's a whisper of wear at the corners, a faint nick on the cover's edge — testimony to its journey. Such details are crucial, as they tip the scale of value and authenticity. Speaking of authenticity, it registers at an impressive 90%, due to its period-appropriate features. However, for the most scrupulous assurance, expert grading and paper tests are suggested. The estimated market value ranges from $300 to $700, with unblemished, high-grade editions commanding more amidst collector zeal. As we close this exploration, we recognize this issue as a jewel for any collector, a narrative masterstroke that continues to sing the 'Song of Red Sonja' — a tribute to the art of comics at its finest.
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Item Report
Bronze Age Marvel 'Conan the Barbarian' #24 Comic Book
By:Writer: Roy Thomas; Artist: Barry Windsor-Smith
Style:Bronze Age American Comic Book
Origin:United States
Materials:Paper, ink (staple-bound comic book)
Age:circa March 1973 (51 years old)
Condition:Very Fine/Near Mint (some very minor corner wear, sharp covers, not officially graded)
Value:$300 - $700 (raw, ungraded; higher for high-grade slabbed copies, depending on condition and market trends)
Maker's Marks / Writing:No unique maker’s mark, but issue details and credits: 'Conan the Barbarian', issue #24, 20¢, MAR 02498; Marvel Comics Group; Comics Code Authority stamp. Back cover has 1972 LaSalle Extension University ad.
Date:2025-06-29 22:23:05.538851
Description:
This is an original copy of 'Conan the Barbarian' issue #24, published by Marvel Comics in March 1973. It is notable as the first full appearance of Red Sonja, a key character in the Conan saga. The cover price is 20¢ and features the iconic Marvel Comics Group banner. The cover art is action-packed, depicting Conan and Red Sonja in combat. The comic is a highly collectible issue from the Bronze Age of comics, often sought after due to Red Sonja's significance in comic history. Back cover carries a period advertisement typical of early 1970s comics.
Curator Questions
Curated by Jade
Assessment:
A highly collectible and valuable key issue of the Bronze Age Marvel run. First full appearance of Red Sonja makes this a centerpiece for Conan collectors. Increase in value for higher-grade, unrestored copies. Condition and originality (e.g., no restoration, bright colors, intact staples) are vital for determining precise value.
Individual Images:
The first image displays a clean
well-centered front cover with vivid colors
minimal blunting to corners
and no major visible creases or tears. The back cover is bright with a strong advertisement typical of 1973
and shows no significant staining
foxing
or writing. The upper left corner of the front cover displays a faint nick
barely affecting the edge. Interior page examination not available from photos.
Provenance:
N/A
Condition:
Very Fine/Near Mint (some very minor corner wear, sharp covers, not officially graded)
Identification Score: 100%
All identifying features of Conan the Barbarian #24 (Marvel, 1973) are present: issue number, date, cover art, Marvel branding, iconic characters. Interior and rear ad also consistent for this era.
Authenticity Score: 90%
A word about fakes.. Fake or reprint Bronze Age comics exist, but this copy shows all period-appropriate details: correct price and date box, typical back cover ad from the period, correct Marvel Comics Group banner, and artwork style consistent with an original. Slight deduction only because professional examination (grading and paper tests) is required for absolute certainty.
Image Memory Note
A standard-sized American comic book. Cover: 'Conan the Barbarian' #24 (March 1973), Marvel Comics Group banner, price 20¢, issue number and date upper left, Comics Code Authority stamp upper right. Title red 'CONAN THE BARBARIAN', subtitle 'The Song of Red Sonja.' Featured: Conan (bare-chested, sword raised) and Red Sonja (red hair, blue chainmail-like top, red shorts/skirt, sword drawn), both fending off attackers. Credits: Art by Barry Windsor-Smith (signature on cover). Back cover: Large yellow 'LaSalle Extension University' mail-in coupon, text block at bottom, no visible scribbles, tears, or excessive wear. No apparent writing, stamps, or markings inside or out in images provided.
Keywords
Conan the Barbarian, Marvel Comics, Bronze Age, Red Sonja, Barry Windsor-Smith, Roy Thomas, comic book, USA, first appearance, 1973
The report was edited after initial Artmink draft. Original AI draft preserved in Artmink audit history.
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