Original 1953 Playboy Issue #1
Perhaps the most famous debut issue in publishing history, Playboy Issue #1 was the beginning of a media empire and an important step forward in the sexual revolution. Released in December 1953, it famously featured nude photos of Marilyn Monroe as its centerpiece (the centerfold would come later), which had been taken as part of a calendar shoot years before and were purchased by Hugh Hefner as a way to boost exposure for his new magazine. The result was near-immediate success for Playboy and its founder, setting both on a course of cultural influence for decades. This particular original example is complete as issued and displays moderate wear, but with no major tears or defects, and is in Good to Very Good condition overall — quite notable for a 70-year-old publication.
