With origins in 19th-century dime novels, pulp magazines were popular among children and teens in the first half of the 20th century. Young people were enthralled with the lore and adventure of the Old West. As the number of titles grew, the covers became increasingly crucial to attracting young readers.
On November 30, Heritage Auctions will present Pulp Magazine Showcase: Western & Romance, featuring more than 100 lots of range-riding action from the Jack and Joanie Kump Collection. Containing classics like The Lone Ranger, The Western Raider and more, the magazines boast covers illustrated by likes of Norman Saunders, Walter M. Baumhofer and H.L. Parkhurst.
The Lone Ranger Magazine, April 1937 (Culture). Condition: VG, Bookery’s Guide to Pulps Second Edition VG value: $500.
“Many of the most respected Western artists of the mid-to-late 20th century, such as James Bama and Tom Lovell, got their start illustrating covers for the pulp magazines and paperback books,” says Todd Hignite, executive vice president of Heritage Auctions.
A 1937 issue of The Lone Ranger Magazine could easily exceed its Bookery Guide to Pulps estimated value of $500. One of the most sought-after Western-themed pulps, this was the first issue of the short-lived title with a cover illustrated by “Kidd.”
“Depicting the masked champion of justice, this book will have many bidders I am sure,” says Heritage consignment director Rick Akers. “It is unusual to have a popular pulp title like Lone Ranger also have the Bookery Pulp Guide‘scarce’ designation.”
The Masked Rider, April 1934 (Standard). Condition: FN, Bookery’s Guide to Pulps Second Edition VG value: $100; VF value: $300.
Other sought-after titles include a 1933 copy of Wild West Weekly with a skull cover by Baumhofer and an estimated value of $10 due to its condition; an issue of The Masked Rider from 1934 with cover art by Oscar Schisgall; and Killer’s Canyon by Zorro creator Johnston McCulley, with a Rafael DeSoto cover.
Bidding begins November 2 and concludes with a live online auction beginning at 6 p.m. on November 30. Interested parties can visit the website to request an in-person preview at Heritage’s Dallas headquarters prior to the auction. —
Pulp Magazine Showcase Auction: Western & Romance
6 p.m., November 30, 2023
Heritage Auctions
(214) 528-3500, www.ha.com
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