Beckett Hockey Magazine Issue 1 Value Guide

Launched in September 1990 by Dr. James Beckett, this inaugural issue is a cornerstone of hobby history that capitalized on the early 90s trading card boom. Featuring Wayne Gretzky in his Los Angeles Kings uniform, it established the industry standard for price guides during the peak of hockey card collecting.

What affects the value of Beckett Hockey Magazine Issue 1?

• Overall condition of the spine, specifically looking for color breaks or 'stress lines' from reading.
• Presence of original promotional inserts or intact subscription cards which significantly increase desirability.
• Corner sharpness and the absence of mailing labels which were common on subscription copies.
• The current market demand for Wayne Gretzky memorabilia and early 1990s hockey nostalgia.

How to Identify Beckett Hockey Magazine Issue 1?

• Verify the premiere issue date of September/October 1990 printed on the cover.
• Ensure 'The Great One' Wayne Gretzky is featured on the cover in his silver and black Los Angeles Kings jersey.
• Check for the original subscription insert cards which are often missing from circulated copies.
• Confirm the Beckett logo and 'Issue #1' designation are clearly visible on the masthead.

History of Beckett Hockey Magazine Issue 1

Launched in September 1990 by Dr. James Beckett, this inaugural issue capitalized on the massive trading card boom of the early 1990s. Featuring 'The Great One' Wayne Gretzky in his Los Angeles Kings uniform, this publication became the industry standard for price guides and hobby news during the peak of hockey card collecting.