Phil Silvers Starring as Sgt. Bilko, No. 7 (June 1958)
Comic Book, Golden/Silver Age transitional period, periodical format on newsprint • Published by DC Comics (National Comics Publications); cover art attributed to Bob Oksner; inspired by the CBS television series 'The Phil Silvers Show'
Style & Movement
Mid-Century American Cartoon Realism / Commercial Illustration
Medium & Technique
Mechanical offset lithography using Ben-Day dots; hand-drawn ink line art with flat color plate application on newsprint stock
Creation Period
June 1958 (Silver Age of Comics)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 7 x 10 inches; standard American comic book portrait format
Subject Description
Humorous narrative featuring Sergeant Ernest G. Bilko, PFC Doberman (dressed as the 'King of Kitchy Koo'), and Colonel Hall. The cover depicts a satirical military scene parodying cultural diplomacy and Bilko's schemes to gain leaves or money.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair/Poor (Grade 2.0 - 3.0 GD/VG on the CGC scale); exhibits significant structural wear and aging
Estimated Market Value
$15.00 - $35.00 USD
Auction Estimate
$10.00 - $25.00 USD
Provenance History
Mass-produced commercial ephemera; no specific provenance marks visible; original price 10 cents
Art Historical Significance
A notable example of the trend of 1950s 'media tie-in' comics where popular sitcoms were adapted to the page to capitalize on television's rising popularity; representative of DC's non-superhero output during the Comics Code Authority era.
Notable Features
Features the silver age 'DC National Comics' circular logo and the 'Approved by the Comics Code Authority' seal; CBS logo in the lower right corner indicating the licensed nature of the intellectual property.
Condition Issues
Major paper loss at the upper left corner and spine; heavy creasing and color breaking across the center; spine roll; browning/oxidation of newsprint; multiple small tears and edge wear; possible moisture staining at the bottom edge.
Conservation Recommendations
Place in an acid-free Mylar sleeve with a buffered backing board to prevent further oxidation; store in a cool, dry, dark environment to slow paper embrittlement; avoid restoration as costs would exceed market value.