The Source chronicled hip-hop music, culture and politics through artist features, scene reporting, reviews and fashion.

About this issue and its era: The black-and-white Tupac portrait and Free? headline capture the rapper during his Death Row period and the All Eyez on Me era. A poet, actor and rapper whose work moved between political commentary and personal conflict, Tupac stood at the center of hip-hop’s increasingly intense national spotlight. Cover lines also advertise the Fugees, D’Angelo, Groove Theory and a spring streetwear preview.

Issue: The Source, March 1996, No. 78. Physical vintage magazine; one copy available.

Visible cover condition: Photographed inside a clear protective sleeve with visible folds and glare. A round handwritten 50 label remains on the sleeve/front area. Edge and corner wear is visible; the sleeve does not establish that the magazine is sealed or unread.

Interior pages, inserts, posters and binding have not been inspected; no claim of completeness or a formal condition grade is made. Photograph shows the actual copy offered. The background has been removed, with artwork, labels, creases and wear preserved.