This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/31/2013
Playboy magazine will forever be recognized for its social significance in reflecting as well as contributing to popular American culture. Issue number one, featuring Marilyn Monroe on the cover, is one of the most recognizable icons of popular culture and Americana. Early issues are especially rare and highly collectible.
Presented here is that special issue that started it all, Issue #1, December 1953, featuring the immortal Marilyn Monroe as the "Sweetheart of the Month" (a designation that would evolve into "Playmate of the Month"). This is a "Page 3” copy, meaning the edition in which page 3 is numbered (the majority of the #1 press run did have a Page 3 designation), and we've heard estimates that a mere 5% of the existing #1s are this variant. The cultural significance of this issue needs no introduction (nor does cover gal Marilyn Monroe) and there's a reason copies of this issue have changed hands for thousands of dollars in our auctions!
The front cover and inside pages are clean and the issue lies flat. It is fully intact (no missing pages) and contains the original centerfold. The spine is intact and staples are in place. The magazine shows light handling along the edges and minor handling to the pages inside. Overall this issue is above average for most surviving first issues, and we'd rate it a solid EX-NM to NM.