ow/white pgs; comes with Gaines COA 11/12
infamous Johnny Craig decapitation cover; possibly the single most notorious cover of the pre-code era
Gaines File Copy
Crime SuspenStories #22 may very well be the most notorious comic book in the history of the medium, placed front and center in Sen. Estes Kefauver's questioning of EC publisher William Gaines, this issue was likely the straw that broke the camel's back, led to the publication of Fredrick Wertham's "Seduction of the Innocent," and the formation of the Comics Code Authority. It is plain to see how this disturbing imagery became the scapegoat for the squeaky-clean sheen that whitewashed the USA in the idyllic 50s. As most people understand today, that air of perfection was glossing over some of the more troubling aspects of American society, and to blame growing amorality and violence on a comic book seems rather short-sighted in the modern-day.
Here is a perfect opportunity to own a piece of history as this Gaines File Copy is in stunning condition that belies the book's decades of existence. Don't lose your head and let this gem pass you by.


Overstreet Guide 2019 VF+ (8.5) value = $6,524.




Artist Information

Jack Kamen was an American illustrator for books, magazines, comic books and advertising, known for his work illustrating crime, horror, humor, suspense and science fiction stories for EC Comics, for his work in advertising, and for the onscreen artwork he contributed to the 1982 horror anthology film Creepshow.