This is a large paper insert issue given away with comics. It measures 212mm x 103mm.
The writing at the bottom of the card reads:
Paramount-Artcraft
Presented with No. 3 of the Kinema Comic, May 8th, 1920.
HOUDINI
The Handcuff King
Note: Paramount-Artcraft was the picture company that made “The Grim Game”. The Handcuff King image on the card is from still L302-55:
According to Arthur Moses, the British Boys weekly “The Kinema Comic” ran a serial “The Amazing Exploits of Houdini” (“Written by Houdini Himself” – or so it says) and always began on page 6 and continued on to others. These were tales of pure fiction with maybe 2% fact thrown in. The weekly serials began with the v1n1 April 24, 1920 issue.
Harold Kellock says in his book “Houdini His Life-Story” (1928) that “The Kinema Comic” serial ran for seven years.
Would love to read some of these.
Me too! They are almost impossible to come by these days. Best chance would be to check with our friend Arthur.
There’s a mate to this for “The Matery Mystery” too.
Whoa! I would love to see that.
Not sure that mate is for The Master Mystery. It’s credited “Famous Lasky” which had nothing to do with the serial. Looks to me like they are just calling HH “The Master of Mystery.” Sort of a funny confusion.
Hmmm! I missed that; Very interesting, indeed. Either way, it would look nice next to my other insert from Kinema Comic.
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Hi Kevin & John,
What can you tell me as far as a value on these Kinema inserts. I have 2 gem mint inserts. Thanks for your help,
John
One in good condition sold this year for $150 not including auction fees; the estimate was between $300 and $400.