Rachel : Comic Books
Rachel Presents
Original Presentation Script
Let's delve into a captivating piece of comic book history: the Bronze Age Marvel 'Conan the Barbarian' issue #42. This remarkable comic not only embodies the energy and vibrancy of its era, but also capably showcases the legendary sword-wielding Conan in a perilous encounter with a formidable gargoyle. Its stunning cover art, graced by the hands of Gil Kane and Ernie Chan, beckons us into a world rich with adventure and intrigue. Released in the autumn of 1974, during the illustrious Bronze Age of comics, this issue holds significant value to collectors and enthusiasts alike. It is not just a saga of savage battles and derring-do; it is a testament to the era's artistic evolution, backed by the creative energies of notable figures such as Roy Thomas, John Buscema, and Ernie Chan. Fashioned on paper enriched with vibrant ink, and encased in a protective plastic slab by CGC, the comic is a hallmark of fine craftsmanship. It boasts a solid, Near Mint 9.4 grade and crisp white pages, attesting to its exceptional preservation and meticulous care. Our critical eye reveals no restoration missteps or glaring imperfections, a remarkable feat for a book of this vintage. The CGC slab ensures protection, enhancing its allure while safeguarding its condition. Such pristine characteristics amplify its desirability among collectors. As we conclude, the authenticity of this piece is nearly impeccable, underscored by a CGC certification that affirms its genuineness with a reassuring score of 98%. With a value estimation ranging from $150 to $225, this gem remains a compelling acquisition for any discerning collector. In the grand tapestry of the Conan legacy, issue #42 is a vibrant, unforgettable thread—waiting to be admired, cherished, and preserved.
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Item Report
Bronze Age Marvel 'Conan the Barbarian' #42 CGC 9.4 Comic Book
By: Roy Thomas (writer), John Buscema & Ernie Chan (interior artists), Gil Kane & Ernie Chan (cover artists)
Style: Bronze Age American Superhero Comics
Origin: United States
Materials: Paper, ink, plastic (CGC slab enclosure)
Age: September 1974
Condition: Near Mint (CGC 9.4, white pages, slabbed, no visible flaws)
Value: $150–$225
Maker's Marks / Writing: CGC label: 'Conan the Barbarian #42, Marvel Comics, 9/74, Roy Thomas story, John Buscema and Ernie Chan art, Gil Kane and Ernie Chan cover, 4374708016, WHITE Pages.' Cover text includes: 'MARVEL COMICS GROUP', '25¢', 'SEPT', '42', 'Night of the Gargoyle!', 'The sword – the sorcery – the savagery of the Age of Blood!'. Comics Code Authority stamp visible upper right.
Date: 2025-06-30 02:30:16.216704
Description:
A key Bronze Age comic, 'Conan the Barbarian' issue #42, published September 1974 by Marvel Comics. The cover features dynamic art by Gil Kane and Ernie Chan, with a dramatic 'Night of the Gargoyle!' scene. The comic is encased in a CGC slab and has received a grade of 9.4 (Near Mint) with white pages. Notable creators credited: Roy Thomas (story), John Buscema & Ernie Chan (art), and a cover by Gil Kane and Ernie Chan. The issue is known for its high grade, visually stunning cover, and solid place in the Conan legacy.
Curator Questions
Curated by Jade
Assessment:
This is a highly collectible Bronze Age Marvel comic, doubly desirable for its CGC 9.4 (Near Mint) grade and classic Conan content. The appeal is enhanced by strong cover artwork and its preservation in a professional slab, assuring buyers of its authenticity and condition. No restoration or significant flaws visible, and white pages add further value. A word about fakes: While counterfeits are rare for this issue, always ensure the CGC label matches registration (4374708016) and has not been tampered with. So sayeth Comics Lass!
Individual Images:
whole item
Provenance:
Encapsulated and graded by CGC, registration number 4374708016. No additional provenance documentation visible.
Condition:
Near Mint (CGC 9.4, white pages, slabbed, no visible flaws)
Identification Score: 100%
The label (CGC 9.4, issue #42, Sept 1974) and all visible artwork, logos, and text unambiguously confirm this is an authentic copy of 'Conan the Barbarian' #42. The details match all known authentic examples.
Authenticity Score: 98%
CGC certification (visible label, grade, and registration number) provides industry-standard authentication. There is a slim but real risk of slab tampering, but all features visible here support authenticity.
Image Memory Note
The primary image depicts a slabbed (CGC) comic book, Conan the Barbarian #42 (Marvel Comics, 9/74). The CGC label at the top displays a Near Mint (9.4) grade, white pages, and the registration number 4374708016. The cover, dominated by large red 'CONAN THE BARBARIAN' text, features Conan battling a monstrous green gargoyle while holding a blonde woman, with dramatic cityscape below. Lower left text: 'Night of the Gargoyle!', right text: 'The sword – the sorcery – the savagery of the Age of Blood!'. Comics Code Authority stamp upper right. No visible damage or defects on cover or slab. No additional markings or handwriting on the item front visible.
Keywords
Conan the Barbarian, Marvel Comics, Bronze Age, comic book, CGC, 9.4, Gil Kane, Ernie Chan, Roy Thomas, United States
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