Beetle Bailey (Dell Comic No. 113)
Comic book, single issue periodic print • Mort Walker (creator/artist) for Dell Publishing Company
Style & Movement
Mid-century American Golden Age/Silver Age transition comic art; Cartoon Realism
Medium & Technique
Four-color process printing (offset lithography) on newsprint with a glossy paper cover
Creation Period
1956 (specifically the October-November issue)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 7 x 10 inches; standard US comic book format (portrait)
Subject Description
The cover features the titular character Beetle Bailey standing by a barracks bunk bed, observing Sergeant Snorkel sleeping soundly while cuddling a teddy bear. This composition uses irony to humanize the tough sergeant character through a domestic, vulnerable setting.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair-Good. The item shows visible shelf wear, spinal stress lines, corner blunting, and edge fraying.
Estimated Market Value
$20.00 - $60.00 USD (depending on interior condition and grading)
Auction Estimate
$15.00 - $45.00 USD
Provenance History
Mass-produced commercial publication; likely private collection. Printed by Dell Publishing Co., Inc.
Art Historical Significance
Beetle Bailey is one of the longest-running comic strips in American history. This Dell issue represents the height of military-themed humor in the post-WWII and Korean War eras, reflecting cultural attitudes toward army life.
Notable Features
Features the 'Dell' logo and 'Still 10c' price point. Includes the 'By Mort Walker' signature imprint on the lower right of the cover illustration.
Condition Issues
Visible spine split and stress marks, surface creasing in the lower right and upper left corners, potential yellowing of interior newsprint (acidification), and edge wear.
Conservation Recommendations
Store in an acid-free Mylar sleeve with a backing board. Maintain a cool, dry environment with low UV light exposure to prevent further paper embrittlement and color fading.