When a significant musical or historical event occurs, Rolling Stone magazine will devote an entire issue to the publishing outside of its regular printing schedule. These are the special issues that, because to their popularity, become more desirable collectibles. An example of this would be the Beatles' issue that came out in December 1967 - before they went on tour America! The cover price was $3.50. This particular issue is now highly sought after by fans and collectors. Another example is the issue that covered Bob Dylan's 1966 album "The Times They Are A-Changin'." With its cover image of the singer playing guitar with a protest song list on his lap, it's still regarded as one of the greatest albums of all time. The issue sold for over $200 in 2001. And finally, there was a Rolling Stone magazine issued just prior to the Vietnam War, which is now valued by collectors at more than $400 today. Rolling Stone magazine issues are, therefore, perfect examples of how popular culture influences value. As well as being good sources of information about these events (or even better than old newspaper articles), they also act as guides to what people want to buy... and what dealers are willing to sell for! Special issues are always more valuable than normal ones.