The Magnificent West: Original Ghost Rider

Filmgoers and ole West fans are lickin' their chops as Denzel Washington brings his "Magnificent Seven" to theaters this Friday. There have been a herd of great Western productions, from Clint Eastwood's "Unforgiven" to HBO's "Deadwood," and "Magnificent Seven" has the clout and cast to join that tremendous group. Let's continue our week-long western roundup with a look at another one of Marvel's horse-riding, gun-wielding heroes: The Original Ghost Rider.

Before the introduction of the fire-skulled motorcyclist, Ghost Rider rode a white horse and carried six-shooters in the Marvel ole West. Thanks to the popularity of the newer Ghost Rider, the Original Ghost Rider is more often known as Phantom Rider or Night Rider. Here's a glance at some Original Ghost Rider/Phantom Rider/Night Rider collectibles (David Hasselhoff not included).

Ghost Rider #1, Marvel Comics (1967)

Ghost Rider #1 by Marvel Comics

The Original Ghost Rider, aka Carter Slade, made his first appearance as Ghost Rider in this late-'70s issue from writer Roy Thomas and artist Dick Ayers. The book can go for upwards of $350, depending on grade, if you can lasso one.

Western Gunfighters Vol. 2 #1, Marvel Comics (1970)

Western Gunfighters #1 by Marvel Comics

This somewhat short-lived series (33 issues) from Marvel brought together western heroes for various adventures. Issue #1 runs about $150.

Ghost Rider Vol. 2 #50, Marvel Comics (1980)

Ghost Rider #50 by Marvel Comics

The Original Ghost Rider (known as Night Rider here) gallops alongside Johnny Blaze, aka Ghost Rider, for this key 50th issue. An affordable find at just about $20-$30, depending on condition.

The Original Ghost Rider mini bust, Bowen Designs (2004)

Original Ghost Rider mini bust by Bowen Designs

Sculpted by Bowen Designs founder Randy Bowen, this 6" bust of the Original Ghost Rider is limited to 2,000 pieces. The bust goes for about $75-$100 on the secondary market.