What If I Can’t Afford the First Appearance?
The backbone of comic book collecting is undoubtedly the first appearance of iconic characters. Consider classic titles like Action Comics #1, Detective Comics #27, and Amazing Fantasy #15. If we had unlimited funds, we might aim to collect them all. However, the reality is that the first appearances of major superheroes or superhero teams can cost tens of thousands and, in some cases, millions of dollars for mid-grade copies.
In this article, I will present more affordable alternatives to the major first appearances from the Golden and Silver Ages of comics. Many classic covers featuring your favorite superheroes can be acquired for a small fraction of their first appearances. To provide context, I've included the current CGC census numbers for all referenced issues and used GPAnalysis to estimate prices. It's essential to note that CGC census numbers often underestimate the actual number of copies believed to exist. For high-value comics like Amazing Fantasy #15 and Action Comics #1, the CGC census likely represents 60 to 80% of the copies in existence. For comics that cost less than $1,000 for a 5.0 grade, consider the CGC census to be a significant underestimation; many copies are simply not worth grading.
Let’s begin with the most expensive book in the hobby. Sure, a 5.0 copy of Action Comics #1 would be a crowning jewel in any collection, but if you don’t have $2 million or more for the first appearance of Superman, you might feel out of luck. Instead, let me suggest Superman #11 or Superman #14. Both feature early and classic appearances of Superman and can be had for more than a 99% discount compared to Action Comics #1! If you’re looking for something even more reasonable, consider Superman #233, which also has its own unique charm.
Not a fan of Superman? How about the Caped Crusader instead? A 5.0 copy of Detective Comics #27 would likely sell for over a million dollars. A more affordable option is Detective Comics #31. This remarkable book is often regarded as having one of the best all-around covers of the Golden Age, making it a worthwhile addition to any collection.
If you're seeking something that embodies both history and style, look no further than Batman #11. With cards as a backdrop, the Joker finds himself receiving a knuckle sandwich from our favorite detective, showcasing the classic dynamic between the two characters. Another fantastic alternative is Neal Adams' homage to Detective Comics #31, masterfully crafted in Batman #227, which recaptures the essence of the Dark Knight era.
If men in tights aren’t your style, perhaps you’d be interested in Wonder Woman. Her first appearance is in All-Star Comics #8, which can be quite costly. However, for those who appreciate a cool cover with political speculation, I believe that Wonder Woman #7 will appreciate significantly once the U.S. elects a woman president. Throughout the years, there have been many excellent Wonder Woman covers available at reasonable prices. One of my personal favorites is Wonder Woman #178, which features a striking design.
Now, let’s shift to a different publisher. The genesis of the Marvel Universe, Marvel Comics #1, will set you back several hundred thousand dollars for a 5.0. But here’s the good news: the series known as Marvel Mystery Comics, starting from issue #2, arguably boasts the highest density of outstanding covers. Here are two of my favorites: Marvel Mystery Comics #40, which I consider the best World War II cover ever created (I’m biased because I own a copy), and another one known affectionately as “Pickle Hitler”—the cover of Marvel Mystery Comics #46, which has sparked plenty of discussion among collectors.
If there’s any series that can rival Marvel Comics in terms of consistently strong covers, it’s Captain America Comics. If you can’t afford Captain America Comics #1, there’s no shortage of fantastic alternatives. For instance, Captain America Comics #27 features a sublime image of Cap and Bucky tearing through Nazis on their motorcycle, encapsulating the spirit of the era. Additionally, the Silver Age’s first appearance of Captain America in Avengers #4 comes at a 99%+ discount, making it a much more accessible option. If that is still too rich for your blood, don’t overlook Captain America #111, which also boasts a fantastic cover.
Moving on to the king of the Silver Age, Amazing Fantasy #15. Although this book has decreased somewhat in value following the COVID comic bubble burst, it’s still challenging to find a 5.0 copy for less than $50,000. Fortunately, the Amazing Spider-Man series offers a wealth of alternatives featuring classic first appearances of major villains and numerous great covers. I’ve always been particularly fond of Amazing Spider-Man #3, which features the first appearance of Doc Ock. Other noteworthy options include the Scorpion’s first appearance in Amazing Spider-Man #20 and Venom’s debut in Amazing Spider-Man #300, both of which are available at a significant discount compared to Amazing Fantasy #15.
What about the Hulk? The first issue, The Incredible Hulk #1, isn’t exactly budget-friendly. A mid-grade copy can cost you well over $20,000. Fortunately, many great covers serve as alternatives. Consider Hulk #102 and Incredible Hulk Annual #1, both of which are late Silver Age books that are much more affordable. If you want to venture into the 1980s, check out Hulk #340, one of Todd McFarlane’s all-time best covers, which captures the Hulk’s reflection in Wolverine’s adamantium claws!
I hope this article not only provides you with some alternatives but also inspires you to do your own research. Explore all the Marvel Mystery Comics and Captain America Comics on ComicVine. What resonates with you? If you can’t afford a major grail, don’t let that deter your collecting passion. The comic world is vast and full of possibilities, with countless gems waiting to be discovered. So, what are you waiting for? There are so many awesome comics to explore. Get to it!
Acknowledgments and Disclosures
All images of comic books are from Heritage Auctions (HA.com).
As of this writing, I own copies of the following books: Captain America Comics #1, Wonder Woman #178, Marvel Mystery #40, Amazing Fantasy #15, and Amazing Spider-Man #300.
