Archie Comic Publications, Inc. began in 1939 as MLJ (initials derived from founders Maurice Coyne, Louis Silberkleit and John L. Goldwater's names) Comics, which primarily published superhero comics. MLJ's first comic book, published in Nov.1939, was "Blue Ribbon Comics." This was quickly followed by "Pep Comics" in Jan. 1940, which debuted w/The Shield, the first patriotic comic book hero. Pep featured The Shield as the cover feature until March 1944, when Archie took over. Offered here is a very rare 7x7.5x3" wide cardboard projector, its sides covered w/images of characters that appeared in "Pep Comics, Top-Notch Comics, Blue Ribbon Comics" and other titles by this publisher. Characters include - The Shield, The Comet, Hercules, Press Guardian, The Black Hood, The Wizard, Scarlet Avenger, Rang-A-Tang, Captain Valor, Galahad, Steel Sterling, Roy The Super Boy. Rocket, Ty-Gor, Mr. Satan, Corporal Collins, Zambini and The Firefly (these last two are featured in inner flaps of projector). Both The Shield and Rang-A-Tang are pictured twice (both featuring different images). Underside has printed instructions for assembly and use. Projector is missing the original tube/lens but these parts were generic in nature. The "filmstrips" were created from simply clipping and assembling comic panels Top flap has glue repair along hinge and front has pair of 7/8" tears to left/right of projector tube. Scattered fading, less noticeable on side featuring The Shield. Back side has vertical crease at center. Despite issues, still displays Fine overall. Very rare and the first we've offered in our 52 years. This is the actual example shown in "The Official Price Guide To Pop Culture Memorabilia" by Ted Hake and comes with COA.