L.B. Cole's Pre-Code Horror Masterpieces Hit Auction Block

Legendary comic artist L.B. Cole's stunning Pre-Code Horror covers are heading to Heritage Auctions. This is a rare chance to snag some of the most iconic and sought-after art from the genre's golden age. The auction, running July 9-11, features numerous Cole-designed covers spanning horror, romance, and crime.

Cole, alongside Jerome A. Kramer, launched Star Publications in 1949. Horror wasn't their initial focus. Their early inventory, acquired from Curtis/Novelty Publications, had little horror content. Yet, Cole was a master of the macabre. His work at Continental, on titles like Suspense Comics, predated the horror boom but showcased his talent for terrifying imagery.

Star Publications pivoted hard into horror by 1952. They launched or rebranded titles like Shocking Mystery, Spook, and Terrifying Tales. These books, often filled with repurposed stories, truly shined thanks to Cole's unique cover art. He had an uncanny ability to create covers that screamed for attention on newsstands. That's why his Pre-Code covers are still coveted by collectors today.

Kramer, an accountant, entered comics during a wartime paper shortage, suggesting a strategic move. He and Cole eventually acquired the Curtis Publishing inventory. But it was Cole's artistic vision, adapting old material and commissioning new work from artists like Jay Disbrow, that made Star's horror line a sensation.