The 50 Best Playboy Magazines to Buy and Hold NOW!

By Rick Gagliano Publisher of Downtown Magazine, home of the Collectible Magazine Online Price Guide http://www.dtmagazine.com http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924 With the enduring popularity of Playboy - now well beyond it's 50th Anniversary - it remains the most popular collectible magazine in the world. As the first year's issues are out of reach of most, with prices ranging from $250 to over $3000 for collectible-grade issues, I've focused on magazines which can be bought today for less than $20 - many less than $10 - and resold or held for appreciation of 100, 200, 300% or more. Many in the collectible universe fail to see the obvious in the trading community: as magazines change hands, due to increased activity fomented by the internet, the quality of what's available continues to degrade. For that reason, it's time for serious speculators to flesh out the high-grade issues that will be in demand by the buying public. To that end, I've selected what I believe are the 50 top Playboy magazines which you can buy now and hold for 35 years (in some cases less) as they appreciate in value faster than the average issue. I've set up this list to reflect what I believe to offer the best return on investment with a low initial outlay threshold.

1. Date: 1/2000 Notes: Cover by Peter Max plus 100 Most Beautiful Women of the 20th Century makes this issue a specialty and a true collector's item. Can be purchased for a fair price today and should skyrocket over the years. Buy at: $3-5 Projected 3-5 year price: $15-25 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb12000.html

2. Date: 1/1979 Notes: 25th Anniversary issue: Candy Loving centerfold, exceptional features. While there were many copies sold and many in circulation, the magazine is huge and increasingly difficult to find in mint or near mint condition. All said, this is an absolute essential issue for collectors as it contains the monster foldout of all the covers and centerfolds from the first 25 years, plus a very usable centerfold list. Buy at: $5-10 Projected 3-5 year price: $18-35 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb179.html 3. Date: January 1981 Notes: Barbara Bach on the cover, Karen Price centerfold, John Lennon/Yoko Ono interview, fiction by Stephen King and Ray Bradbury. Buy at: $2-5 Projected 3-5 year price: $12-24 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb181.html 4. Date: June 1957 Notes: The "cufflinks cover" is nearly all white with a pair of bunny cufflinks lower right. The trick is to find one of these nearly 50-year-old magazines with a pristine cover. Also, first appearance of LeRoy Neiman's Femlin on Party Jokes page, a superb full-page photo of Hugh Hefner, Lisa Winters as favorite Playmate of 1956 Buy at: Anything < $15 Projected 3-5 year price: $25-50 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb657.html

5. Date: March 1964 Notes: An <-deserved issue with the girls of Russia and delicious Nancy Scott as the Playmate of the month. The real trick here is the interview with objectivist philosopher Ayn Rand. Invoking her name in the title of an auction for this magazine (which almost nobody does), usually increases the sale price by 100-200% or more. Buy at: $4-8 Projected 3-5 year price: $15-40 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb564.html . 6. Date: October 1977 Notes: Barbra Streisand is on the cover and interviewed in the issue. Streisand agreed to do this cover, as the extraordinary art direction shows, but she did not agree to the embarrassing bout with High Society magazine in 1979 (see here) in which she had the issue recalled and sued the magazine (and won). The High Society magazine has reached the stratosphere of collectibles, with near mint issues selling for $300 and up, but this Playboy issue continues to rise in value. Buy at: $4-9 Projected 3-5 year price: $12-20 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb1077.html

7. Date: December 1968 Notes: Cynthia Myers, who starred in Russ Meyer's film "Beyond the Valley of the Dolls" is on the cover and also Playmate of the Month. Myers, in addition to being an OK actress, was incredibly well endowed, as her pictorial amply proves. There's also a symposium on creativity with Truman Capote, Alan Ginsburg, Henry Miller, Arthur Miller and others. Buy at: $6-12

Projected 3-5 year price: $20-35 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb1268.html

8. Date: March 1968 Notes: Jane Fonda is featured in a pictorial from the film "Barbarella". Buy at: $3-8 Projected 3-5 year price: $12-18 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb368.html

9. Date: January 1986 Notes: Andy Warhol cover, and since Andy's dead, he's not doing any more. This one's still amazingly cheap due to supply, but will hold its value well. Buy at: $2-6 Projected 3-5 year price: $12-20 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb186.html

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Date: July 1988 Notes: Cindy Crawford on the cover with pictorial inside, all photographed by the impeccable Herb Ritts. A classic beauty captured by a classy photographer. Buy at: $5-8 Projected 3-5 year price: $18-30 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb788.html

11. Date: December 1960 Notes: Marilyn Monroe is the main attraction of the Seventh Anniversary issue, but there's plenty more, in the likes of Ray Bradbury, Ray Charles and Vargas. This one's already seen values above $50 at times, but still can be found relatively cheaply. Buy at: $10-15 Projected 3-5 year price: $35-75 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb1260.html

12. Date: November 1965 Notes: The Girls of James Bond pictorial, plus an interview with the enduring Sean Connery make this issue a must-have for 007 fans. And who's not? Buy at: $5-9 Projected 3-5 year price: $19-28 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb1165.html

13. Date: November 1961 Notes: Anita Ekberg's pictorial from the Federico Fellini film, "La Dolce Vita" is the main selling point for this <valued issue. Alvin Toffler (Future Shock) and Rod Serling's appearance in a symposium on television, plus 5 pages of Gahan Wilson's "Chamber of Horrors" ensure value. Buy at: $7-12 Projected 3-5 year price: $20-36 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb1161.html

14. Date: May 1999 Notes: Charlize Theron's cover and pictorial makes this issue a must for her growing legion of fans, many of whom don't even know of this magazine's existence. When they find out, it's a must, as Ms. Theron has, in a very short period, become one of Hollywood's finest actresses. The betting is that she'll go down as one of the best ever, so this issue's value will continue to rise as does her stardom. Buy at: $3-8 Projected 3-5 year price: $15-24 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb599.html

15. Date: June 1960 Notes: This one is all about the stuff of legend and nostalgia. The pictorial article, "Meeting at the Summit" features Frank Sinatra and the Rat Pack with vintage photos of Frank, Sammy Davis, Jr., Peter Lawford, Dean Martin and Joey Bishop at the Sands Hotel in Las Vegas. This issue has enduring worldwide appeal. Buy at: any price < $20

Projected 3-5 year price: $34-60 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb660.html

16. Date: March 1966 Notes: Bob Dylan didn't do many interviews after this one, so, as he's one of the more powerful music icons of the 20th century, this issue will surely appreciate. Buy at: $4-8 Projected 3-5 year price: $22-40 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb366.html

17. Date: May 1974 Notes: Two words: Marilyn Lange. OK, a little explanation: Marilyn is one of the more well-endowed of all the playmates, and she's spectacularly displayed in this issue, which contains little more than raw sex appeal, which is usually enough to drive value these days. Oh, there is an interview with a baseball player named Aaron in there as well. Buy at: $5-9 Projected 3-5 year price: $14-25 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb574.html

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Date: February 1965 Notes: In addition to a sensational interview with the Beatles, this issue also features a pictorial of Kim Novak shot by Frank Bez, a Donna Michelle encore, Little Annie Fanny and a full page Vargas girl. Buy at: $6-10 Projected 3-5 year price: $20-32 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb265.html

19. Date: December 1979 Notes: Raquel Welch tantalized us for years without ever uncovering her most obvious assets, but this issue's pictorial came close. The photos of Raquel are titillating and pure. Lots of other features drive the value in this 414-page issue. Buy at: $4-8 Projected 3-5 year price: $16-30 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb1279.html

20. Date: October 1982 Notes: Tanya Roberts graces the cover with more of her inside. Ms. Roberts has enduring appeal from her 70s appearances on "Charlie's Angels" to recent revitalizing roles on "That 70's Show." In between, she's seldom been out of work, but lately has been a real crowd pleaser. This issue also resonates in Japan, with the "Girls of Japan" feature and with future PMOY Marianne Gravatte as Playmate. Buy at: $3-6 Projected 3-5 year price: $12-18 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb1082.html

21. Date: January 1958 Notes: This may not appeal to most, but the Playmate, one Elizabeth Ann Roberts, was <age (less than 18) at the time of her Playmate of the Month appearance. Subsequently, Hef had problems (contributing to the delinquency of a minor) with the law which he narrowly escaped (he was charged, but never jailed), but it's all part of the Playboy mystique. Throw in some fiction in this issue by beat generation exemplar Jack Kerouak and you have a bona fide "keeper." Buy at: $8-15 Projected 3-5 year price: $25-48 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb158.html

22. Date: June 1963 Notes: The "Nudest Jayne Mansfield" is a bit of an overstatement, but it really sells this issue. Jayne gone well before her time, but never forgotten - lives on well in this issue. The Billy Wilder interview and Ray Bradbury fiction are nice plusses. Buy at: $8-15 Projected 3-5 year price: $24-35 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb663.html

23. Date: Notes: stuff.

October 1978 Dolly Parton cover and interview. Dolly is an American institution and her photo here is vintage

Buy at: $4-8 Projected 3-5 year price: $16-25 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb1078.html

24. Date: December 1972 Notes: Playboy art directors pulled the trademark infringement string with this Coca-Cola-esque cover with the lovely Mercy Rooney inviting us in for the holidays. The balance of the issue is less-than-inspiring, but the cover art usually has Coke collectors drooling. Buy at: $7-12 Projected 3-5 year price: $20-32 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb1272.html

25. Date: September 1985 Notes: The cover boldly states: OUR LAST STAPLED ISSUE. IT'S A KEEPER" which makes every yokum holding this issue thinking like it's gold or something. While it is the last of its kind, the issue offers little more than Madonna nude (and who hasn't seen that?), so beware, and don't overpay. On the flip side of the argument is that IT'S MADONNA, NUDE, MAN!! and that has some lasting value. Buy at: $5-8 Projected 3-5 year price: $12-20 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb985.html

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26. Date: February 1990 Notes: This one is a super sleeper issue, the secret being that the Playmate of the Month is none other than Pamela Anderson. Over the years, Ms. Anderson has proven to be a talent of some worth, in addition to her delectable demeanor. You can buy this on the cheap and sell for much more. Of course, it should be noted that this is Pam the real, as opposed to the silicone-enhanced model we have grown to love. Buy at: $2-6 Projected 3-5 year price: $10-20 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb290.html

27. Date: June 1993 Notes: Herb Ritts dazzles with this exceptional cover of Playmate of the Year Anna Nicole Smith. Like it or not, Anna Nicole has become an icon as American as apple pie. Besides Anna Nicole's unabashed beauty, this cover is one of the top representations by a master photographer. Cindy Crawford and Claudia Schiffer make cameo appearances here as well. Buy at: $3-7 Projected 3-5 year price: $12-23 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb693.html

28. Date: April 1969 Notes: The definitive Brigitte Bardot pictorial is contained with the otherwise nondescript pages of this issue. The latter 60s are largely overlooked, so this issue can be had for a price not dear. Bardot is a classic beauty, uncompromised by this expose. Buy at: $3-8 Projected 3-5 year price: $15-22

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Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb469.html

29. Date: November 1976 Notes: What it is about Patti McGuire that keeps moving this issue is a bit of a conundrum. Nevertheless, she is the Playmate of the Month here, eventually won Playmate of the Year honors, married tennis great Jimmy Connors and engrained herself upon the minds of American men forever more. This also happens to be the issue wherein Jimmy Carter mouthed the "lust in my heart" quote in the interview. This issue works and should continue to do so Buy at: $6-12 Projected 3-5 year price: $18-30 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb1176.html

30. Date: October 1962 Notes: The price range on this issue varies widely, but can still be purchased at less than $10. At that price, it's a pure bargain as it contains the first appearance of everybody's favorite buxom comic gal, Little Annie Fanny. Surprisingly, not many collectors are aware of this, but it's the true selling point of this issue. Buy at: < $12 Projected 3-5 year price: $16-30 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb1062.html

31. Date:

March 1967

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Notes: Fran Gerard is the zoftig centerfold and playmate of the month, but the real catch here is the pictorial of Roman Polanski's then-wife, Sharon Tate, who was subsequently murdered by members of the Charles Manson gang. Buy at: $5-9 Projected 3-5 year price: $24-32 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb367.html

32. Date: June 1972 Notes: For lack of a better word, call this issue love. Any guy who's a guy has to simply melt over the Scandinavian charms of Liv Lindeland, the Playmate of the Year. Liv first appeared in the January 1971 issue, but this reprise has her on the cover and delightfully displayed on 12 pages inside. Not much else to drive the value of this issue, but Ms. Lindeland carries it pretty well herself. Guys couldn't get enough of her then, and apparently still can't Buy at: $4-8 Projected 3-5 year price: $15-23 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb672.html

33. Date: June 1980 Notes: Dorothy Stratten was an exceptionally beautiful playmate from August 1979 who is featured in this searing Playmate of the Year pictorial. Ms. Stratten was tragically murdered by a jealous boyfriend and this issue stands as a lasting tribute to her and is highly prized. Buy at: $7-12 Projected 3-5 year price: $20-30 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb680.html

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34. Date: July 1966 Notes: Don't be fooled by the prices you'll find on this issue. It's one that sneaks up on you from a variety of directions. Beyond the summery cover, there is a pair of pictorials - one with Sean Connery and Jean Seberg and another 8-pager with Ursula Andress. Then there's the interview with Ralph Ginsberg, 4 pages of paintings by LeRoy Neiman at the Royal Ascot horse races, fiction by William Saroyan, but the capper is the exceptional 2-page Vargas Girl in the Batwoman costume. This one could really soar. Buy at: $4-10 Projected 3-5 year price: $20-40 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb766.html

35. Date: January 1995 Notes: Drew Barrymore is a Hollywood fixture and this issue is already more than 10 years old, so the initial over-reaction has passed and prices have slumped. Look for this issue to slowly make a comeback and be a long-term winner. Buy at: $4-7 Projected 3-5 year price: $12-20 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb195.html

36. Date: June 1959 Notes: The key to this issue is right on the cover, where it says "Origins of the Beat Generation by Jack Kerouak." If you're buying from somebody who doesn't know who Kerouak was, you can get a real deal on this baby. The balance of the magazine isn't too bad, but Jack's essay is definitive. Buy at: any price < $15

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Projected 3-5 year price: $35-65 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb659.html

37. Date: October 1989 Notes: Some people may not recognize the lady on the cover as Pamela Anderson, as this was her very first Playboy appearance. It's hard to think of any woman who has more photos in the annals of Playboy except maybe Marilyn Monroe. So, if Marilyn was the ideal of sex appeal from the 50s and 60s, Pam has to be her 90s and 2000s counterpart. If values go the way they have for Marilyn, this issue will be highly sought after for many, many years. Buy at: $3-8 Projected 3-5 year price: $16-28 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb1089.html

38. Date: December 1973 Notes: Of all the Playboy magazines produced over the past 50 years, this one, possibly more than any other, exemplifies the extraordinary range of drawing power the magazine has. First, the cover screams pinup art with the gorgeous Bonita Lu Rossi lounging on a crescent moon. Inside, there's Playmate Christine Maddox, a stunner; an interview with Bob Hope; a 7-page pinup pictorial; Sex Stars of 1973 with Linda Lovelace, Jane Fonda, Raquel Welch and many more; a Barbie Benton pictorial; fiction by Tennessee Williams and Gunter Grass; plus a two page Vargas Girl. This particular issue falls into the category I call "Classic" because it encompasses all of the elements which made Playboy so diversely collectible. The other two magazines which fall into the "Classic" mode are January 1979 and January 1981. This one is probably the easiest to acquire. Buy at: $3-7 Projected 3-5 year price: $15-28 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb1273.html

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Date: July 1992 Notes: There she is again Pamela Anderson, this time as the "Tool Time Girl" from Tim Allen's hit TV show, "Home Improvement." As a bonus, Madonna romps nude on a beach. Some critics think this Madonna pictorial outshines her initial appearance from September 1985. You may have to pay up a little for this one, but it's well worth a few extra bucks. Buy at: $5-9 Projected 3-5 year price: $16-25 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb792.html

40. Date: December 1984 Notes: Suzanne Somers captured the hearts of the American male when she starred on the hit sitcom "Three's Company." Since then she's made another fortune selling the Thigh Master, which apparently she was using when she posed for this cover and pictorial. In addition, the Sex in Cinema pictorial is rather bountiful, and the Paul and Linda McCartney interview is a must for fans of Beatle Sir Paul. Buy at: $4-8 Projected 3-5 year price: $12-20 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/1284pb.html

41. Date: January 1969 Notes: Some anniversary issues are better than others, and this Fifteenth Anniversary Issue is a good choice if you can find it in clean condition (the cover is white on white). In addition to the Playmate Review of 1968, which includes Cynthia Myers, there's a ton of sex stars like Ursula Andress, Stella Stevens, Ann-Margret, Bardot, Marilyn and Jayne Mansfield as the editors reviewed 15 fabulous years. There was inordinate use of heavy cover stock, including the Clif Karhu woodcuts and the back-to-back fold-out Vargas and Neiman. Lots to like. Buy at: $7-12 Projected 3-5 year price: $21-35 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb169.html

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42. Date: January 1974 Notes: Maybe it's the black cover, but this 20th Anniversary issue is excellent. More than anything else, the back and front views of Playmate Nancy Cameron on the fold-out is still a stroke of genius and forever enjoyable. As was the publisher's choice with these flagship anniversary editions, the review the first 20 years of Playmates is exceptional. Fiction by Saul Bellow, Vladimir Nabokov and John Updike are nice complements to the up-front Hefner interview as well as the Stella Stevens fold-out. Buy at: $8-12 Projected 3-5 year price: $20-35 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb174.html

43. Date: April 1973 Notes: Two big grabbers here: the pictorial of "Deep Throat" star, Linda Lovelace, and the interview of great playwright, Tennessee Williams. While those are pretty divergent disciplines, this issue carries the weight. Buy at: $5-9 Projected 3-5 year price: $16-25 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb473.html

44. Date: February 1966 Notes: This one gets the nod for just one item, the interview with legendary filmmaker Federico Fellini. The price is slim for such a monumental discussion with a pioneer of cinematic art.

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Buy at: $5-10 Projected 3-5 year price: $14-26 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb266.html

45. Date: June 1998 Notes: The Babes of Baywatch cover pretty much says all that needs to be said about this issue. Buy at: $5-8 Projected 3-5 year price: $14-24 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb698.html

46. Date: December 1966 Notes: As <-appreciated an issue as you can find is right here in the holiday spectacular. Nancy Gould's Christmas ornament earrings and the red-black-red color scheme are masterful cover art affects. The interior bonuses are an interview with Sammy Davis Jr. (a Rat Pack member) and the History of Sex in Cinema, which featured 20th century sex goddesses Jayne Mansfield, Brigitte Bardot, Sophia Loren and others. This can be purchased for a song today and held without any risk of loss. Buy at: $4-7 Projected 3-5 year price: $12-20 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb1266.html

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47. Date: December 1975 Notes: The final interview with Jimmy Hoffa and the Sex Stars of 1975 drive the value here. Buy at: $4-8 Projected 3-5 year price: $12-18 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb1275.html

48. Date: August 1979 Notes: Dorothy Stratten is Playmate of the Month and Candy Loving fills out the space very well in a bonus reprise pictorial. Buy at: $5-9 Projected 3-5 year price: $16-24 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb879.html

49. Date: April 1993 Notes: The Frank Zappa interview, shortly before his premature death (December 1993), is more than worth the price of admission. Buy at: $4-7 Projected 3-5 year price: $12-20 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb493.html

50. Date: July 2001 Notes: Pamela Anderson in all her silicone glory. Incredible. Bear in mind that Pam freaks (don't worry, they're out there) will want all of her issues. This most recent incantation is easy to find in excellent condition for a bargain price. Buy with both hands. Buy at: $2-6 Projected 3-5 year price: $10-15 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb72001.html

51. Date: January 1999 Notes: Somehow, this got left off the list but could go all the way to #12-10. The collage cover is delightful, and the features of this 45th Anniversary issue are outstanding, better even than the 50th anniversary issue. The initial rush has worn off, as it's now 7 years hence, so this excellent issue can be found at a relatively reasonable price. Buy at: $6-10 Projected 3-5 year price: $15-25 Link: http://www.dtmagazine.com/cmopg1924/pb199.html INSIDER NOTES: The Four Reason why Playboy Magazines will appreciate in value: 1. Magazine collecting is becoming more mainstream. With the advent of the internet, and eBay in particular, back issues of magazines have become more available and collectors are active in the market. Once nearly exclusively the province of used and rare book stores - who were more interested in old copies of Harper's and routinely shunned Playboy on content issues - the hobby is reaching into new territory. Note that while Playboy always was the top collectible, Sports Illustrated, the Saturday Evening Post, Mad and of course, the horror and movie magazines among others, have also attracted a substantial following.

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2. The maturation of a certain segment of collectors - mostly comic book fans - is engendering a sea-change of tastes. Surely, Spider-Man and Superman will keep their bases, but an ample number of these collectors are looking to expand into other areas, and magazines are the logical extension of their pursuits. Magazines, like comics, are printed material, can be graded in similar fashion, contain key issues and are actively collected, traded and valued. There's also the social factor. The idea of grown men buying, selling, sorting and storing respectable magazines is a bit more palatable than those same men (and women) doing the same with comic books and baseball cards, though without doubt, those pursuits have paid handsome benefits to the most ardent. 3. The eBay "mature audience" fiasco. I've railed about the debatable merits of this stupidity since 2001 - that of splitting Playboy into pre and post-1979 categories, the latter being in the "mature audience" section of their web site (denoting it as pornography) - and it may at some time come to an end, or a viable alternative may be found. By putting every issue of Playboy since 1979 into this category, eBay has inadvertently depressed prices on these magazines anywhere from 50-80%. Yes, that's correct. Post-1979 magazines that were selling on the main site for as much as $10-12 can now be cherry-picked in the "adult" section for $2-4 and often less. It's been a bonanza for dealers and collectors who have been savvy enough to purchase lots and individual issues over the past four years at bargain prices, but the entire dynamic may change over the next few years. Currently, in the Mature Audiences section, in addition to having to find it and re-login, eBay doesn't allow sellers to offer Buy It Now (immediate purchase) or use PayPal for payment. The rationale is decidedly provincial, but, since it has to do with S-E-X, is tolerated. One can only hope that more liberal views will prevail and ebay's brass will feel pressure from a third party to make changes. As it is, Ebay and PayPal's policies do not specifically prohibit post-1979 Playboy magazines, but the policy has roots and falls < the somewhat suspect concept of "clearly designed to sexually arouse," clearly the least egregious of "violations." < this guide, one might suspect that all covers of Maxim, Stuff and FHM magazines would be in violation of this policy. For what reason other than to sexually arouse potential buyers would these publications routinely put scantily-clad women on their covers? Those magazines are not subject to the draconian eBay rules, thankfully. The idea that Playboy somehow has more potential to arouse or encourage "deviant" behavior is without merit. The policies are, and have been, a massively misguided double standard and notable impediment to free trade and free speech. Not to be outdone, Yahoo Auctions has similar policies in place, though they provide no guidelines or alternatives. Currently, Amazon Z-shops, Auctions and Marketplace have no such restrictions, though sellers' experience of Playboy magazines on their site is not overwhelming. Mostly, buyers ignore the site altogether. Currently, the main beneficiaries of the policies of eBay and PayPal are sellers with their own web sites and payment processing, who can choose to display and sell post-1979 Playboys without restriction and for reasonable prices. One bight hope is that Google will offer a payment solution that doesn't restrict buyers or sellers in the same regard. Google is arguably more liberal and sound-minded and has already begun beta testing of a payment solution. Within a short time, the eBay/PayPal stranglehold on these magazines may be defeated. 4. Market forces, inflation, scarcity and knowledge will increasingly play out in advancing prices. Internet trade has matured to a point at which buying and selling is routine, there are resources for safety and security, and grading issues are largely compensated for by the quality of digital photos and the relative honesty of sellers. Market knowledge concerning quality, scarcity and desirability is gradually improving. Since the market and hobby of magazine collecting is largely diverse and relatively small, certain key players are and have been providing guidance and intelligence to the general community. As the market grows, there's always going to be a significant lag between the most and least knowledgeable, working to the advantage of those in the know. On the inflation front, it's a reality of life, and while collectible prices ebb and flow, they eventually outperform inflation.

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The wild card: One only has to examine the operation of CGC (Comics Guaranty, LLC) at http://www.cgccomics.com to see the potential for a super-market for more highly prized magazines. CGC already is "slabbing" comic magazines in addition to various titles such as Mad and horror magazines. The potential for a foray into Playboy has been openly discussed at CGC and may or may not occur. One only has to look on eBay for the multitude of listings with CGC in the title (do a search for "Fantastic Four CGC" or "Superman CGC") to get an idea of what this may do to the magazine market. Like them or not, CGC has established a super-market for comics and may well wish to do the same with vintage magazines. Playboy would be a prime candidate, though one questions whether such a market would be sustainable or even viable. Storage tips: If you plan on buying magazines and holding them for a period of years, you'll want to make sure that your investment retains its condition. The major contributors which can cause damage to magazines and books are moisture, light, bugs, microbes and overall storage care and handling. The best defense against such threats are to store your magazines in a dark place that is well-ventilated and away from household traffic. An attic, closet or corner of a room should certainly suffice. The first thing one should consider is that the magazines should be kept away from direct light. This can easily be accomplished by putting them in a box or a closet without windows. Next, you'll want to purchase high quality storage sleeves. There's a difference between polyethylene and polypropylene which you can read about on <A HREF=http://www.dtmagazine.com/polyvspoly.html>this page, which carries the nifty title "Poly vs. Poly."</A> Beyond the poly solutions, there's mylar, either black or white, which will effectively shut out any light source. Mylar is quite expensive, but it is the best and is advised on anything valued at over $75. Some people swear by backing boards as well, though again, one must be careful to get the proper size and ensure that the boards are acid-free. Plain cardboard is untreated and may have an adverse effect. Last, you can stack your magazines or shelve them like books. Either method has advantages and drawbacks, but in either case, you want to prevent spine bending. If you're shelving, bending can be caused by not keeping the magazines together in a tight bunch. Once they start to slip and slide, bending of the spine will occur. If you're stacking, the best way to avoid spine bend is to alternate the spine and open end of the magazines. The spines are generally thicker and bulkier, so if you stack spine to spine, you'll see the stack tilting. Correct this by alternating positions at least every six magazines and you should be OK. Buying tips: Simply put, buying individual issues is going to cost more than buying in lots. The problem is that you end up with lots of issues that will trade with the market - which may or may not be a good thing. These additional issues can either be stored or resold, after removing the issues you want to own and keep. The issues outlined in this document can be purchased individually on eBay for the suggested prices and sometimes even less. Make sure you are dealing with a reputable seller by checking feedback and making sure that shipping charges aren't out of line. Any single issue can be sent by Priority Mail for $4.10 and by Media Mail or Bound Printed Matter rate for $3.00 or less. If the seller isn't showing photos, don't buy. Period. If the photos are small, beware. You want to be able to verify that the issues are in excellent condition - at least Fine to Near Mint - and that means good photos and competence in grading by the seller. Since many sellers have no idea what constitutes Very Good, Very Fine, Near Mint, etc., don't trust their judgment, trust your eyes and the seller's feedback. Many sellers will just say "Good Condition" and leave it open. If the issues show gloss and no apparent damage, you should be safe. Remember that centerfolds should be intact and have NEVER been removed. You may want to ask the seller in advance about any number of things. The best place to buy online is, naturally, eBay, but there's a large difference in the pre-1979 and 1980-present market. The 1980-present issues are in the Mature Audiences section and there isn't much traffic. Armed with the knowledge of which issues are important, you should be able to cherry pick this section. The general site may be a little more of a challenge.

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Stay away from ebay stores, as most of the issues will be marked up beyond a reasonable price. You can check other places on the internet, such as classifieds sites, but ebay generally is where the market is best represented. Buying off-line, in the real world, is advised. Follow up classified ads, auctions and garage sales. When at a garage sale, always ask the man present - if there is one - if he has any Playboy magazines for sale. Often, people won't put them out in a garage sale because they don't want to offend anyone. Sometimes, people are just dying to get rid of them, but simply are ashamed or don't know how to sell them. You can take the advantage in such situations and pick up some good issues cheap. Again, it's best to buy in quantity. If you see a stack of Playboys at a flea market, it's better to ask how much for the entire stack than haggle over a couple of key issues. The seller will likely jack up the price on the ones you show an interest in, so offer to buy them all. You can always resell the issues you don't want, often at a healthy profit. Watch for sellers who don't offer PayPal. While some of these people may be shady, they also may be new to the game and not realize how convenient PayPal is. Many buyers will just ignore sellers who don't offer PayPal, so you may be up against less competition. Bid late, close to the end time and always bid the amount you wish to pay, not some ridiculously low or high number. Let eBay's automated bidding work for you. Selling: When it's time to sell your magazines, if you choose to go the ebay route, you should sell them individually, but in bunches. By that, I mean that you should list a good number of quality issues within a short span of time. If you're selling 12-20 different issues, there's a good chance that collectors will be interested in more than one. Offer a discount on multiple purchases and make sure your title and description are solid, readable and contain essential keywords which highlight the best selling points of the individual issue. In your title, you should include the word Playboy, the date and a couple of keywords. You only have 55 characters with which to work, so choose those keywords carefully. In the description, solid close-up photos are a must, as are details, much like you'll find in the price guide descriptions. The general rule is, the more detail the better. Your opening bid, or starting, price should be reasonable. Don't list a magazine you want to sell for $30 for a penny or even 99. Start it at $6.99, or even $9.99. Remember, a high starting price may scare off potential bidders, but if your magazine is near mint and it's competing against others of inferior grade, that should be represented in your starting bid price. You might also want to consider an auction with a Buy it Now price significantly higher, but in line with the market. While there's debate over time of day to list (ending time), the best seem to be between 1 and 4 p.m. Eastern (10 am - 1 pm Pacific) and 8-11 p.m. Eastern (5-8 Pacific). Auctions should always run through a weekend, when people have more time to browse and can run optimally at 5, 7 or 10 days. The best end times seem to be Wednesday, Thursday or Friday nights. Your results may vary. Also, make sure to accept checks, money orders and PayPal. The more payment options you offer the better. You don't want to shut out a qualified buyer because you don't accept personal checks, or PayPal. If you choose to sell in the real world, the best way would be to offer a nice selection of issues in a well-worded classified, pointing out the investment value of the particular issues you're offering. Astute buyers may need one or two of these issues and may not be put off paying a premium price for quality. Maximizing your investment: The best way to ensure that your investment will appreciate is to buy as many high quality copies of the issues you like and keeping them out of circulation. As the market expands, and scarcity becomes an issue, supply and demand will work in your favor. Keep your collection organized and protected and you'll profit handsomely.

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 Copyright 2006 Rick Gagliano, Downtown Magazine. All rights reserved. Republication, retransmission, reselling or reprinting of this report, in whole or in part, without the express written consent of Rick Gagliano and Downtown Magazine, is forbidden.

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Top 50 by Date Quick Reference Date Price Buy

06/1957 01/1958 06/1959 12/1960 06/1960 11/1961 10/1962 06/1963 03/1964 02/1965 11/1965 07/1966 03/1966 02/1966 12/1966 03/1967 03/1968 12/1968 04/1969 01/1969 12/1972 06/1972 12/1973 04/1973 05/1974 01/1974 12/1975 11/1976 10/1977 10/1978 01/1979 08/1979 12/1979 06/1980 01/1981 10/1982 01/1984 09/1985 01/1986 07/1988 10/1989 02/1990 07/1992 04/1993 06/1993 01/1995 06/1998 01/1999 05/1999

< $15 $8-15 < $15 $10-15 < $20 $7-12 < $10 $8-15 $4-8 $6-10 $5-9 $4-10 $4-8 $5-10 $4-7 $5-9 $3-8 $6-12 $3-8 $7-12 $7-12 $4-8 $3-7 $4-9 $5-9 $8-12 $4-8 $6-10 $4-9 $4-8 $5-10 $5-8 $4-8 $7-12 $2-5 $3-6 $4-8 $5-8 $2-6 $5-8 $3-8 $2-6 $5-9 $4-7 $3-6 $3-7 $5-8 $6-10 $3-8

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