Few magazine covers in history have captured the world’s attention like the June 1985 issue of National Geographic. Featuring Steve McCurry’s haunting portrait of an Afghan refugee girl, this cover became one of the most recognized and celebrated images of the 20th century. Decades later, it remains a symbol of resilience, conflict, and the power of visual storytelling.

The Story Behind the Photo

The striking portrait, often referred to as “The Afghan Girl,” features Sharbat Gula, a young refugee who had fled Soviet-occupied Afghanistan to live in a camp in Pakistan. Her piercing green eyes, framed by a tattered red shawl, tell a story of hardship, displacement, and survival. Photographer Steve McCurry captured this now-legendary image in a refugee camp in Peshawar, Pakistan, not knowing at the time that it would become one of the most enduring photographs of modern history.

Inside the June 1985 Issue

Beyond the unforgettable cover, the June 1985 edition of National Geographic covered several important global issues, including:

• 🌍 Afghanistan’s War-Torn Frontier – A deep dive into the ongoing Soviet-Afghan War and its impact on the region.
• 🌊 Great Salt Lake: The Flooding Desert – An exploration of environmental changes affecting Utah’s Great Salt Lake.
• 🇺🇸 U.S.-Mexican Border: Life on the Line – A look at immigration and border conflicts.
• 🌿 Java’s Wildlife Returns – A hopeful story on conservation and wildlife restoration.
• ☀️ Fair Skies for the Cayman Islands – A travel feature on the beauty of the Caribbean.

This issue reflects National Geographic’s signature blend of stunning photography and in-depth journalism, bringing global stories to readers in a way that few publications could.

Why This Issue Is a Must-Have for Collectors

🟡 Historical Significance – The Afghan Girl cover is one of the most famous magazine images ever published.
📸 Photography Milestone – Steve McCurry’s work on this issue set a new standard for photojournalism.
📖 Cultural Impact – The issue continues to shed light on refugee crises and global conflicts, remaining relevant even today.
🖼️ A Timeless Collectible – Whether you’re a National Geographic collector, a photography enthusiast, or a history buff, this issue is a must-own piece of magazine history.

The Legacy of the Afghan Girl

In 2002, Sharbat Gula was found again, her identity confirmed after 17 years of mystery. The world learned her name, her story, and the struggles she had faced since the iconic photo was taken. Since then, her image has been used to raise awareness about the plight of refugees, proving the power of a single photograph to inspire change.

Do you collect vintage National Geographic magazines? What are your favorite issues? Share your thoughts in the comments!