As physical back issues of Cheri become harder to find, there's a growing underground market for digital scans and archives. Some fan-run websites and collectors have taken to preserving the magazine's legacy by digitizing old issues, making them accessible to newer audiences.
Though unofficial, these efforts underscore the lasting appeal of Cheri and the desire to preserve its role in adult publishing history — not just for titillation, but for its cultural and artistic value.
The publication of Cheri began in 1956 and continued until 2004, spanning decades of sexual politics, censorship, and technological advancement. Its covers featured pinup models like Bettie Page, Marilyn Monroe, and Raquel Welch, who were also celebrated actors and social icons. The magazine was notable for its high production values, featuring glossy paper and expensive photography that set it apart from other men's magazines of the time. It also featured thoughtful writing on sex, relationships, and culture, including pieces by iconic authors such as Norman Mailer and Truman Capote.
Despite its popularity, however, Cheri has largely been forgotten outside of certain niche circles. As the decades passed, copies became increasingly difficult to find, with many being thrown away or lost due to changing tastes and taboos around pornography. This scarcity created an opportunity for dedicated fans to preserve the magazine's legacy through online scans and archives, which have become increasingly sophisticated over the years. Some sites offer digital versions of complete issues, while others focus on specific sections or themes, such as the covers or articles written by a particular author.
These preservation efforts are driven by a love of nostalgia and a sense of cultural responsibility. Fans see themselves as stewards of a valuable part of American history, one that deserves to be seen and appreciated by new generations. They argue that the magazine's artistry and social commentary are just as important as its titillation factor, and should not be dismissed simply because they may be considered offensive today. By making these issues available digitally, they hope to ensure that their importance is not lost forever.