Playboy Magazine August 1979 Value Guide

The August 1979 issue of Playboy is a highly sought-after collectible primarily due to the cover appearance of Dorothy Stratten, the 1980 Playmate of the Year. Her tragic death shortly after this publication transformed this specific issue into a poignant piece of pop culture history and a cornerstone for Stratten completists.

What Is Playboy Magazine August 1979 Worth?

The typical price range for Playboy Magazine August 1979 is $75 - $85 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Overall condition of the spine, specifically looking for 'color breaks' or stress lines that decrease value.
• The presence or absence of a mailing label, as newsstand copies without labels typically command higher prices.
• The crispness and preservation of the Dorothy Stratten centerfold, which is the primary driver of the $75-$85 price range.
• Page yellowing or foxing caused by improper storage in humid environments.

How to Identify Playboy Magazine August 1979?

• Verify the cover features Dorothy Stratten wearing a white mesh top and holding a red apple.
• Check for the presence of the original centerfold poster, which should be intact and securely attached to the staples.
• Confirm the date 'August 1979' is printed clearly on the top left corner of the cover.
• Look for the specific 'Playboy' masthead font and ensure the paper quality matches the heavy gloss stock used in the late 1970s.

History of Playboy Magazine August 1979

Playboy magazine, launched by Hugh Hefner in 1953, quickly became a cultural phenomenon. The August 1979 issue is notable for featuring Dorothy Stratten, a Canadian model and actress whose tragic murder in 1980 brought her considerable posthumous fame and made this particular issue a significant collector's item. The magazine itself was a pioneer in lifestyle journalism, blending explicit photography with serious interviews and literary content, influencing generations of readers and sparking ongoing debates about censorship and freedom of expression.