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Original vintage black-and-white promotional press photograph showing riders descending the first hill of the King Cobra stand-up roller coaster at Kings Island in Mason, Ohio.
The typed caption beneath the image reads:
“King Cobra riders at Kings Island look straight down the first hill, a 95-foot drop into the 66-foot high, 360-degree vertical loop. The new steel roller coaster is the first of its kind in America.”
King Cobra opened at Kings Island in 1984 and operated through the 2001 season. This photograph appears to date from the coaster’s opening-era publicity campaign and shows a dramatic head-on view of the stand-up train descending the first hill.
Subject: King Cobra roller coaster
Location: Kings Island, Mason, Ohio
Approximate date: Circa 1984
Approximate size: 8 by 10 inches
Format: Original black-and-white promotional press photograph
Photographer: Not identified
Signature: None
Reverse: Handwritten publication notes reading “75%” and “pg-3”
The reverse notation appears to be a period printing or publication instruction indicating that the image was to be reproduced at 75 percent size on page 3. This is consistent with professional newspaper, magazine, brochure or publicity use.
Condition is Very Good vintage condition. The photograph retains strong contrast, sharp ride detail and a fully legible caption. Visible wear includes mild natural curling, light handling, minor edge and corner wear, scattered small surface marks and faint handling or pressure impressions on the reverse. A small dark mark is also visible near the left edge of the reverse. No major tears, pinholes, tape residue, water damage, missing corners, heavy staining or severe creases are visible.
This appears to be an original period publicity photograph rather than a modern reproduction or souvenir postcard.
A scarce and historically interesting piece of Kings Island and roller coaster memorabilia associated with the opening era of the now-defunct King Cobra, one of the most memorable early stand-up steel coasters.
Excellent for collectors of Kings Island, Ohio amusement parks, vintage roller coasters, TOGO rides, original press photography and defunct theme-park attractions.
Please examine all photographs carefully, as they show the exact item and form an important part of the condition description.
The photograph will be placed in a protective sleeve and shipped flat between rigid backing boards for safe delivery.
