Back in the early '50s when the fledgling television medium was starting to take off across the nation, TV Guide came along so you would always know what was playing on all four of the channels available for your viewing pleasure. Hard to believe in this day and age of seemingly endless broadcast, cable and streaming options, that it all started out so simply. Even so, the combined output of ABC, CBS, NBC and the short-lived DuMont Network at the time was great enough that a weekly reference guide was not only viable, but for many an absolute must.

Launched for the week of 4/3-9/53, this inaugural edition of TV Guide is graced with cover photos of the first lady of television Lucille Ball and her newborn son Desiderio (Desi, Jr) Alberto Arnaz IV. This important first issue presents in fantastic (NM) condition with bright colors, nice gloss, clean surfaces, a tight spine and only very minor wear. With both Lucy and TV Guide rating as major icons of the television realm, this key first edition is a must for entertainment fans.