CGC Comics' Hottest Submissions for June 2024
Posted on 6/3/2024
In this monthly series, CGC delves into the dynamic world of comic book collecting, focusing on the hottest titles influencing the current market. Utilizing comprehensive insights from CGC submission data, we explore significant first appearances, rare variant covers and milestone issues.
This month continues to see the increasing popularity of X-Men-related characters in the market, driven by the "X-Men '97" series on Disney+ and the anticipation for upcoming film "Deadpool and Wolverine." These two projects have driven intense interest in key X-Men comics, especially those featuring characters like Gambit, Dazzler and the original X-Men team. Collectors are seeking out first appearances, significant story arcs and rare variants, causing a noticeable uptick in demand and value.
Among this month’s hottest comics
Avengers Annual #10
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Avengers Annual #10, published in 1981, is a significant issue in Marvel Comics history, marking the first appearance of Rogue, a now-iconic character. Written by Chris Claremont and illustrated by Michael Golden, the story features Rogue as a villain, initially part of the Brotherhood of Evil Mutants. Rogue's mutant ability allows her to absorb the powers, memories, and life force of anyone she touches, a power she struggles to control. In this issue, she battles the Avengers, notably absorbing Ms. Marvel's (Carol Danvers) powers and memories, an event that has lasting repercussions for both characters. Rogue eventually transitions to a heroic role, becoming a central member of the X-Men and a beloved figure in the Marvel Universe.
The 1990s “X-Men: The Animated Series” explores her struggle with her powers, particularly her inability to touch others without harming them, adding depth to her character as she grapples with her desire for human connection and the burden of her abilities.
TMNT: The Last Ronin #1
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TMNT: The Last Ronin #1, published by IDW in 2020, presents a dark and gripping story set in a dystopian future where only one of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles has survived. Written by Kevin Eastman, Peter Laird and Tom Waltz, with art by Esau and Isaac Escorza, the issue follows the last remaining Turtle on a quest for justice and vengeance against those responsible for his brothers' deaths. This narrative reveals a somber, mature tone, diverging from the typically lighter TMNT adventures, and delves into themes of loss, resilience and retribution. The identity of the surviving turtle, kept secret initially, adds a layer of mystery and emotional depth to the compelling storyline.
A live-action film and a video game based on the series were both announced in 2024.
X-Men Annual #14
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Many X-Men fans believe Gambit made his first appearance in Uncanny X-Men #266, published in August of 1990, but others argue that's actually his second appearance — following a not-so-brief cameo in X-Men Annual #14, published one month earlier.
Gambit is a charismatic and enigmatic mutant with the ability to charge objects, typically playing cards, with kinetic energy, making them explosive. Created by Chris Claremont and illustrated by Art Adams, Gambit is introduced as a suave, skillful thief from New Orleans with a mysterious past and a thick Cajun accent. This annual explores Gambit's complex personality and his evolving dynamics with the X-Men, particularly his close relationship with Rogue. Gambit quickly becomes a beloved character in the X-Men franchise, known for his charm, wit and unique powers.
Batman: The Killing Joke
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Batman: The Killing Joke, a graphic novel published in 1988, is a seminal work in the Batman series, written by Alan Moore and illustrated by Brian Bolland. This dark and psychologically complex story delves into the origin of the Joker, offering a potential backstory that adds depth to his chaotic persona. The narrative is famous for its intense and controversial scenes, particularly the brutal attack on Barbara Gordon (Batgirl), which results in her paralysis, and has significant repercussions in the Batman lore.
The Killing Joke explores themes of madness, tragedy and the thin line between sanity and insanity, highlighting the profound and disturbing relationship between Batman and the Joker. This graphic novel has left a lasting impact on the Batman mythos and remains a critically acclaimed, if controversial, piece of comic book literature.
Dazzler #1
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Dazzler #1, published by Marvel Comics in 1981, introduces Alison Blaire, a mutant with the ability to convert sound into powerful light and energy beams. Written by Tom DeFalco with art by John Romita Jr., the issue marks the debut of Dazzler as a unique superhero with a glamorous twist. A disco singer by profession, Alison uses her powers to create dazzling light shows during performances, while also battling villains and navigating the challenges of her dual identity. Dazzler stands out in the Marvel Universe for her fusion of entertainment and heroism, capturing the vibrant, eclectic spirit of the early 1980s.
This comic has only become more popular with collectors amid unconfirmed speculation that Dazzler will appear in the upcoming "Deadpool and Wolverine" film in the summer of 2024.
Previous Hottest Comics of the Month:
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