CGC Comics' Hottest (Mostly) Vintage Submissions for July 2024
Posted on 7/2/2024
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. To celebrate our $30 vintage grading special (during July only!), we’re spotlighting three vintage titles this month.
Silver and Bronze Age comics continue to excite collectors and fans alike with their enduring popularity. These comics not only represent significant cultural artifacts but also embody the creativity and storytelling prowess of their era. Characters such as the X-Men, grappling with societal issues through their mutant identities, and Spider-Man, navigating the complexities of heroism and personal responsibility, resonate deeply with audiences. The enduring appeal of this generation of comics lies not just in their historical significance but also in the timeless themes they explore.
Incredible Hulk #181
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Incredible Hulk #181, published in November 1974, is a landmark issue in Marvel Comics history, featuring the first full appearance of Wolverine — after a cameo appearance in issue #180. Over the years, Wolverine's gritty persona and complex backstory have captivated audiences, leading to significant roles in numerous films and animated series, famously portrayed on film by actor Hugh Jackman since the X-Men debuted on screen in 2000.
This issue is also notable for its inclusion of a Marvel Value Stamp (MVS), which collectors often clipped out, contributing to the rarity and value of complete copies with the MVS still intact.
Amazing Spider-Man #121
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Published in June 1973, "The Night Gwen Stacy Died," remains one of the most iconic and tragic issues in Spider-Man's history. Written by Gerry Conway with artwork by Gil Kane, this issue depicted the shocking death of Gwen Stacy, Peter Parker's girlfriend, at the hands of the Green Goblin. The storyline not only showcased the personal toll of being a superhero but also marked a significant shift in comic book storytelling by dealing with mature themes and consequences.
This poignant narrative has inspired multiple film interpretations, including "The Amazing Spider-Man 2" (2014), where the Green Goblin (Dane DeHaan) drops Gwen Stacy (Emma Stone) to her death, closely mirroring the original comic's tragic event.
Fantastic Four #48
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Fantastic Four #48, published in March 1966, is a milestone in Marvel Comics history for introducing the Silver Surfer and a cameo appearance by Galactus (who would make his full appearance in the next issue). Created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, this issue marked the beginning of a cosmic saga within the Fantastic Four series. The Silver Surfer, herald to the planet-consuming cosmic entity Galactus, quickly became a fan-favorite with his silver skin, cosmic surfboard and philosophical outlook. Galactus, a colossal figure who devours planets to sustain himself, presented a formidable and morally complex antagonist.
Both characters have since become integral parts of Marvel's cosmic mythology, and are set to join the Marvel Cinematic Universe in the upcoming Fantastic Four reboot planned for 2025.
Giant-Size X-Men #1
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Giant-Size X-Men #1, published in Summer 1975, is a seminal comic book that revitalized and reshaped the X-Men franchise. Written by Len Wein with art by Dave Cockrum, this oversized issue introduced a new team of mutants, including Storm, Colossus, Nightcrawler and Wolverine, alongside familiar faces like Cyclops and Jean Grey. Sent on a rescue mission to save the original X-Men, the newly assembled team showcases their diverse powers and personalities. This groundbreaking issue not only laid the foundation for the modern X-Men mythos but also paved the way for the team's enduring popularity and cultural impact in the decades to come.
X-Men #94
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X-Men #94, published in August 1975, marks a pivotal moment in Marvel Comics as it relaunched the X-Men series with a new team lineup, following the introduction of these characters in Giant-Size X-Men #1. Written by Chris Claremont and illustrated by Dave Cockrum, X-Men #94 is highly valued by collectors for its historical significance in reinvigorating the series and setting the stage for decades of compelling storytelling.
Previous Hottest Comics of the Month:
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