The first Playboy magazine was published in December 1953, created by 27-year-old Hugh Hefner on his kitchen table.

It had Marilyn Monroe on the cover riding a circus elephant and Marilyn inside appearing in the center as "Sweetheart of the Month". This term was later changed to "Playmate of the Month".

The first edition consisted of well-written articles and a revolutionary nude photo shoot of Marilyn Monroe. This famous actress revealed her sexuality through a cover story and a nude spread inside the magazine.

Hefner’s “revolutionary idea” (AskMen.com) sparked interest in the younger generation for many reasons, including religion, family life, and rebellion. Christianity dominated America at mid-century, yet this magazine displaying sinful pictures appealed to the youth, raised on these conservative principles. The magazine unveiled the border between sin and purity, a sensitive subject around religion. The college-bound era was asking questions, and Hefner’s magazine provided answers.

The value of the famous first issue of Playboy magazine is determined by many factors. Not the least of which is condition. A near mint to mint copy of the first issue can easily command over $5,000 ! And if Hugh Hefner has signed the copy(even years later), you can add a few thousand dollars. Copies of this first issue of the very collectible Playboy magazine have changed hands for more than $15,000 ! WoW! However, there are copies in poor condition, that are available in the 100's of dollars. And these are in poor condition. Many have torn or half missing covers, no back cover, pages missing, very heavy soiling, etc. Yet they still have value. The vast majority of complete copies of the first issue sell in the range between $2,000 and $ 5,000 .

for more Playboy first edition pictures, check out here