It does mark Marvel's revival into the horror genre with a nice twist on the classic vampire horror character. Whether or not you're in the 1st cameo or 1st full appearance camp for this muttie runt, it's still clear that Wolverine remains one of the most popular and well-known superhero characters to come out of the Bronze Age. A 9.4-graded copy of this iconic comic sold for $275,000 at auction in 2014. This comic with an amazing cover by Jack Kirby features Captain America joining the Avengers, and a near-perfect 9.8-graded copy of one sold for $143,400 in 2017 at Heritage Auctions. While some people like to playfully mock Canada, we shouldn't be knocking the 198K (American) that you could nab for having this book. The September sales were at Heritage Auctions and the June sale was from eBay. For just about any comic line, the first issue is almost always the rarest and most valuable. Highly anticipated character to hit the MCU on the mutant side of things is no doubt Wolverine. Incredible Hulk 181 is essentially the most valuable comic book from the 1970s as it features the first full appearance of Wolverine which comic fans can't get enough of. Copies with as low as a 0.5 grading can fetch over $2,000 on eBay, and one recent sale on the auction site was a 7.0, which sold for $19,000 in May 2019. I grew up with the character in the late 80s and 90s. CGC 9.8 sold for $16,800 in Sept 2021, and three days prior (Sept 9th) for $7,999.99. As an X-Men fan, no doubt that Wolverine is one of my favorite characters of all time. I debated pretty hard about even mentioning these, but here they are: Wolverine #1 CGC 10. I have little doubt that Disney and the MCU will overlook this character, but I am a bit nervous as to who they cast and which direction they'll take. To be honest, I am a bit surprised this comic is not up there a long side Marvel Spotlight #5 at this grade. Published in 1940, the Overstreet Guide called it "The definitive funny animal anthology comic after which all others were modeled.". 31 copy above a 4.0 grade, which might explain how a 5.0-graded one sold for $131,450 in 2017. It was graded in a near-mint, 9.2 condition. This 8.0-graded comic fetched $252,100 in 2017, the same year that "Riverdale" debuted on the CW network. Comic collectors are never sure if a throwaway character might become the next big thing, especially in the speculative era of the '90s, when new characters sprouted up in every issue and "comic investors" collected any comic they could find. 1, the first appearance of Superman, and in turn, the origination of comic book superheroes as we know them today. DC sued M.F. But it was still 1942, and a female superhero might not have been as appealing to young boys as Captain America or Superman. We will analyze the rarity of each book . It sold in 2016, its value rising due to the resuscitation of the DC Universe in film. If you happened to get the later second printing, with the Anti-Venom reveal on the cover, it's worth a lot morea well-preserved copy will score you around $125 bucks. Somehow, it worked out better for him than anyone else who'd tried it at the time, and Venom's been wavering between good and evil ever since. But something went awry and Doc was turned into a giant Lizard. Please watch the following video where you can watch me break them all down and look at some comics history. If you had this book on your pull list, the first printing is worth about $25 today. In 1937, DC publisher Harry Donenfeld was worried that a competing publishing house would steal the "Action Comics" title, so he mocked up this comic book and sent it to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office to secure the title. This comic is pretty much all origin story, with Abin Sur of the Green Lantern Corps crashing into the middle of a desert, and while on the throes of death, finds a worthy successor to the Green Lantern in Hal Jordan. While the Ultra-Humanite isnt exactly a popular or even well-known bad guy, hes the worlds first comic book supervillain. One issue from 1961 that was graded a 9.4 sold for $300,000 cash. In this case, the regions tested were. The comic that arguably started the entire Marvel Comics Universe arc that dominated the box office for years, "The Avengers" No. 73 features the origin and first appearance of Aquaman, which has become one of DC's most-loved superheroes. This comic has quite a bit of important firsts, including Thanos and Drax the Destroyer. This is the issue that is the basis for so much of what the Marvel universe came to be, as far as the Avengers go as it is the first appearance of Captain America in the Silver Age. Only 3300 copies were printed, making it a relatively uncommon book, but if you grabbed one of these in 1998, you'd be $500 richer today. Okay, over-all the Bronze Age Comics listed below aren't on the high-end scale like those above. The first issue of "Justice League of America" features the team of world-saving do-gooders fighting against prehistoric dinosaurs, Despero, and planet-destroying missiles. 18. Prior recent and highest known sale of an X-Men #94 CGC 9.8 was for $63,000 in April of 2021. In 2017, one buyer purchased "Sensation Comics" for $399,100 on eBay. There are no first appearances or really anything of importance within the comics plot, but the books cover is so beloved and original prints are so hard to find that some people will pay a huge premium for one in great condition. Printed in 1962, this comic book stands among the greats because it introduces everyone's favorite friendly neighborhood Spiderman. A 9.6-graded version of the 1964 comic sold for $150,000 in 2021. There are a few creators that can drive up the value of a comic. Sep. 12, 2021 saw a $8,400.00 sale of a CGC 9.6 via Heritage Auctions. We're talking about a guy who knew little to nothing about Chinese culture and felt apt to write about it in a way that absolutely portrayed it as morally and culturally inferior. The only other sale I could find for this comic was back in 2013, and it sold at Heritage Auctions for $13,145! A very rare example of a '90s comic that went up in value due to a character appearance is New Mutants #87. The debut was a three-chapter story which featured Soviet spies and flying bugs. A 9.2-graded copy also sold for $119,500 in 2006. It's not even the first appearance of Ms. Marvel in costume; she's only on the final page in a t-shirt. During the pandemic, the Punisher became my favorite character. In fact, when I got my copy graded, pressing and cleaning wasn't as popular as it is right now. 1 that belonged to actor Nicolas Cage fetched $2.161 million in 2011. This iconic comic marks the first appearance of the Joker and Catwoman. Batman #1 - About $567,000. Then again, if I owned the 3 known copies in existence, I'd be very reluctant to let my go unless I really needed the money. Incredible Hulk #181. In an attempt to bring in new comic readers, Funnies, Inc. partnered up with Timely (the eventual Marvel) to put out books in movie theaters to try and drum up some sales. Namor in the comics is the King of Atlantis who has a thing for Sue Storm, and is the companys first Mutant. Captain Marvel #17 isn't the first appearance of the new Ms. Marvel, Kamala Khan; Marvel confirmed that she actually appears in a panel in issue 14. Case in point: the Amazing Spider-Man #300 edition of Marvel Collectible Classics. Holding the record for the most expensive comic book ever sold is Marvel's Amazing Fantasy #15. SILVER AGE Marvel Comics 1969 Top 10 key issues by Terry Hoknes. A 9.0 grading may have also been the 80-year-old comics selling point when it sold in 2011 at auction. Theyre the Fantastic Four, a Stan Lee and Jack Kirby creation that quickly became a fan favorite. Only up until recently did Marvel put their creative juices behind their second-tier characters to craft new stories. Kicking off the list of the 20 most valuable comic books on the planet is the first issue of The Amazing Spider-Man, a Marvel comic dedicated to the web-slinger, following his smashing success in Amazing Fantasy #15. . Just kidding. 7 Amazing Spider-Man #298 - $146 This is Todd McFarlane 's first issue. 1 began with only Thor, Iron Man, Hulk, Ant-Man and the Wasp as its founding members. Free shipping for many products! Hopefully, it garnered more excitement for Asian superheroes in the comic medium. 22 contains the first appearance of Archie. In many ways, Amazing Spider-Man #300 was the turning point in Spider-Man's history, making it a book beloved not only for its value, but also its story. But he wasnt green, at least not on the cover. Oh, fun fact here: The original X-Men wasn't a hit with fans and was almost cancelled if you can believe that. He humiliated the Thing and extinguished the Human Torch. One villain is a mad scientist with eight arms and has terrified Spidey throughout the years, even marrying his beloved Aunt May and possessing Spideys body too! Also curious is the record-setting price for the sale in 2017, since a 2011 Superman No. Sabretooth needs to be ruthless and savage yet cunning. The secondary comic market is always moving and updating with comic sales. Action Comics #1 - About $3.2 Million. The copy that sold is one of three known to exist and was the highest-graded copy, with a 9.2 grade. Once again, when them X-Men finally hit the silver screen under the MCU, it will interesting to see how excitement hits this book at all grades. 1 is gorgeous, and drawn by Everett in Kirby's action style. In 2021, that record was broken, when the same comic was sold again for $3.25 million. Damn, I wonder how much that would go for now? Even though the surrounding issues aren't worth much, the first appearance of Death's Head will net you an average of $100. "Batman was pulp, born and bred. There are a few comics that do have third-party graded 9.9 and 10 sales that are not featured here as well and are considered Bronze Age Comics. A few titles were involved as well. The first appearance of the Punisher in Amazing Spider-Man #129 is absolutely one of my most prized comics in my personal comic collection. Phoenix has become an extremely iconic X-Men character in Marvel Comics without a doubt. A 9.0-graded copy sold for $281,001 in 2012. The record-setting sale, which went for $215,100, occurred in 2018, and it was for an incredible 9.6-graded version with off-white pages. On top of the important debuts, Wolverine joins the X-Men in this issue, and there's no doubt that his popularity helped to make the 2nd incarnation of the X-Men a success. 3 is a coveted item among collectors because of its amazing cover by Lou Fine, which depicts a giant named Samson beating iron monsters to death with a spiked flail. Recently, in the comic books, there was a massive Skrull invasion where it was revealed plenty of powerful people had been replaced by the shape-shifting Skrulls. #30: Invincible Iron Man 512 Stroman Venom Variant (2012). Luke Skywalker's Latest Failure May Have Just Doomed the Jedi Forever. The issue also featured stories with heroes like the Angel and Ka-Zar, and cover art by the sensational Bill Everett (who also created Namor and co-created Daredevil), and issues have gone for 2500 at just its minimum with prices like 107 and 198K being the highest recorded sales for this issue. Superman made his first appearance in the first "Action Comics" issue, but he didn't again appear on the series' cover for another six months, until the seventh issue of "Action Comics" hit newsstands. The creator of all that is Marvel got his grand start within the pages of Captain America #3, writing that story, Captain America Foils The Traitors Revenge, it was also the first time Lee and Jack Kirbys names were both in the same comic. Maybe it will continue in 2022, and maybe it won't. The first iteration of the Torch was actually a robot invented by Phineas T. Horton. "Tales to Astonish" No. Highest and most recent sale of a CGC 9.8 of Marvel Spotlight #5 was at a whopping $264,000 that sold at Heritage Auctions in 2021. "Detective Comics" No. If that doesnt sound like a valuable comic to own, then perhaps the second story will Dr. However, there are only a measly 4 recorded 9.8s in the CGC census currently. Once again, feel free to comment, and I hope you share this article to those who will benefit. Hailing from Gary, Indiana, Pete Petruski created a paste gun and instead of using it for good as a research scientist turned to a life of crime. Despite being one of the most sought out Bronze Age key comics amongst collectors, quite a few are arguing that the 1st cameo of Wolverine in the prior issue of Incredible Hulk #180 should be the more sought-out and valuable between the two. Almost forgot Savage Tales #1 and it should probably be on here. The most valuable Marvel title is also the third most valuable comic book in the world, behind the first appearance of Superman in Action Comics #1 and the first appearance of Batman in Detective Comics #27. Sure it's just another Cap and Bucky take on the Red Skull story and it's Captain Americas third issue. If the movie is a hit, I expect demand for this to continue to rise. Even a mid-CGC grade 6.5 went for 26K, but with books being worth what theyll sell for, this issue has been known to sell for 482K. 1, and the cover art is by Craig Flessel. Again with the mutants. The most recent prices are also those that I could find. Only one sale, yet the CGC Census has 3 recorded 9.9s in existence so far? The Arena Media Brands, LLC and respective content providers to this website may receive compensation for some links to products and services on this website. "Hulk" No. "Fantastic Comics" No. You could conceivably find and ungraded good condition copy for several hundred dollars and then send it off to CGC to make bank on your purchase. So, these two teamed up to try and take out Johnny Storm in Strange Tales #110. But that cover art is awesome. Here are the Thirty Most Valuable Marvel Comics Of All Time. This makes it move up a spot ahead of X-Men #94. It's true. A few months later in issue #12, the first epic clash between Marvels two top titans, the Thing, and the Hulk took place, which to this day is one of the House Of Ideas great rivalries. These are Universal copies, and there are zero Signature Series for the grade. Also, Drax the Destroyer has been a prominent character in the Guardians of the Galaxy franchise. The most expensive copy of this book sold in 2017 for a bit over $149,000. If youre one of the lucky few to have a copy or have the money to have a copy, youre currently sitting on a grand investment of 120K. Pinning down the true value of the comic is a bit tough. I am surprised and thought that the 1st appearance of Wolverine would've taken the number #1 spot. 1st Blade is still hot! Maybe the seller is hoping for renewed interest in the series. Marvel didn't want to spoil the big reveal of their newest hero, so they kept the good stuff for the comic's second run. Superman #1 - About $507,000 . However, they do have very high grades like 9.9s or 10s that are extremely valuable. Definitely not surprised to see the 1st appearance and origin of Luke Cage on here, and when the MCU brings the character into the fold, I'm sure this Bronze Age key comic may move up in the rankings. There doesnt appear to be anything notable about "Action Comics" No. The real draw is most likely Kitty Pryde, who's become a fan favorite over the years, especially now that she leads the Marauders. It has the first appearance and origin of Man-Thing. The Phoenix saga and even Dark Phoenix saga are classic fan-favorite stories. 10's story. It definitely has a lot going for it, and Wolverine's gruff, violent but loyal nature has caught on with many comic fans. Journey Into Mystery had a different tale to tell a year earlier, introducing not only Korg (who was the comic relief in Ragnarok), but also the God of Thunder Thor himself! Luke Cage, Hero for Hire #1 - 1st appearance and origin of Luke Cage. Can't wait! This is the 2nd Ghost Rider for Marvel. Tales Of Suspense #39 is the epic debut of the man who would become the centerpiece of all that is Marvel. Incredible Hulk #180. Can that be right? While some of the House Of Ideas famous characters predate Spidey, the entire Marvel Universe might not exist had it not been for Spideys massive popularity. The BvS or Infinity War of its time, Marvel Mystery #9 was the first crossover story between two superheroes when the worlds of Namor and the original Human Torch collided. The characters that debuted here became linchpins for the team during the '70s, '80s, '90s and even to this day. But it's also the first time Steve Rogers hurls his mighty shield. Cover art by Gil Kane, John Romita and Gaspar Saladino. This is a big moment for geeks all across the world, or at least it was in 1940. I could not find more recent prices, but there's a good chance that these could sell for way more. Ever since Supermans first appearance in 1938, comic books have captured the hearts and minds of children and adults with stories of heroes and the evildoers they vanquish. Relaxing of the Comic Code Authority and we get back some good ole classic horror characters like Dracula in the mighty world of Marvel. Like any collectible, the most valuable comic books are often the rarest. This issue of "Detective Comics" from 1940 features the first appearance of Robin, who was created to attract a younger audience. While plenty of comic book fans have known this for years, perhaps some might not - the Human Torch existed long before Johnny Storm went on a spaceship. Bob Kane might be a controversial figure, but he sure could draw. Mail-away incentives, super-limited editions, and graded copies have no place among your sweaty socks and fifth grade art projects anyhow. A 4.0-graded copy sold for $30,000 on eBay in March 2019. Recently a Tomb of Dracula #10 CGC 9.8 sold for $48,000 in September of 2021. Talk about being connected! Remember, this is as it stands at the time of this writing in December 2021. Most of these are compared from sales of CGC 9.8s. Three other stories not including Superman are included in the 64-page book from 1939. He has been responsible for perhaps Spideys greatest tragedy, the death of teenage love, Gwen Stacy. Pretty rare for Marvel Spotlight #5s at 9.8 grades! In "Showcase" No. I am surprised that the first appearance of Blade has beat out the 1st appearance of the Punisher at 9.8 grades, but it appears it has. Stan Lee and Jack Kirby had another great supporting character on their hands that they treated as more important than the second tier. 0 comments#1: Action Comics #1. The holy grail of comic books is the 1938 "Action Comics" No. The 1964 comic is also the first Silver Age appearance of Cap, who had been frozen since World War II. Damn, once again, the venue it sold at was Heritage Auctions. Tomb of Dracula #10 - 1st appearance of Blade. As the Fantastic Four battle the Mole Man, Reed Richards takes his friends on a rocket ship that will alter their lives forever! The Bronze Age of Comics was a great and creative time in comics and produced many iconic characters, stories, and works of art. His first appearance in the costume in Tales To Astonish #35 is the first time the anthology series focused on the little guy and this series would become his own and the first time he was able to talk to ants. Here is no different, as Spideys second Amazing adventure has been known to go for 72K. What a cover. Another investment type of comic book, FF #4 can only skyrocket in price once the character is finally introduced to a nationwide film going audience and is currently a little under the average years salary of 44K at its highest to bring home. Things are changing slightly as the MCU grows, so perhaps it's time to pick up some investment comics now. But it's also a very rare find being from 1941. Plus the sales dates for the Iron Fist #14 are much older. Of course, they include Superman and Batman comics, along with other Marvel and DC classics, as well as gems from other publishing houses. Please note that this list is in alphabetical order. $40k already and more than a 15k increase in just a few mere months of each other. This issue of "All-American Comics" from 1940 features the first appearance of Alan Scott as the Green Lantern. Its also noted to be the first comic to usher in the Silver Age. If you can afford the splurge, either of these issues carries a fairly lofty price tag of 90K at their highest grade and record sale. Just saying. And instead of putting together a suit in the caves of Afghanistan as he does in the 2008 "Iron Man" movie, this Tony Stark built his crude metal armor in a Vietnam POW camp. Much of the Hulks origins are told right here in this issue. The first issue of Motion Pictures Funny Weekly didn't see a lot of issues hit the shelves in the theater, but the book was still notable for being the debut of Namor, The Sub-Mariner, who was eventually ret-conned into being Marvels first mutant. . The first appearance of Spider-Man back when he had webs underneath his armpits is the second most valuable comic of all time. Special Marvel Edition #15 - 1st Shang-Chi and 1st comic appearance of Fu-Manchu. Not much is known about the sale, only that it occurred in 2001.