CGC Comics Hot List – December 2024

Posted on 12/2/2024

This month’s hottest comics feature key first appearances creating major buzz.

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’s hottest comics feature key first appearances creating major buzz. A notorious antihero is drawing attention ahead of his live-action return, while a long-lost hero’s debut has fans excited for what’s next. A dark Gotham tale is gaining traction as rumors of new adaptations swirl, and a reimagined team origin story is resonating with fans. Plus, a powerful mutant’s debut continues to spark excitement in the X-Men universe. Let's get right into it!

Among this month’s hottest comics

Amazing Spider-Man #129


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Amazing Spider-Man #129, released in 1974, introduced one of Spider-Man's most iconic foes — the Punisher. Written by Gerry Conway and illustrated by Gil Kane, this issue marks the first appearance of Frank Castle, a vigilante with a relentless drive for justice, who clashes with Spider-Man while also targeting the underworld. The issue not only presents a memorable showdown but also hints at the darker, more complex nature of the Punisher’s character, setting the stage for his return in the Marvel Cinematic Universe in the upcoming “Daredevil: Born Again” series on Disney+.

The Avengers #9


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Avengers #9, released in 1964, marks the first appearance of Wonder Man. Written by Stan Lee and drawn by Jack Kirby, this issue introduces Simon Williams, a man with extraordinary strength and durability who becomes a pawn of the villainous Baron Zemo. Under Zemo's influence, Williams is transformed into Wonder Man and sent to infiltrate the Avengers, posing a serious threat to the team. However, after an intense battle, Wonder Man begins to question his loyalty and ultimately sacrifices himself to save the Avengers. His apparent death has lasting consequences, and Wonder Man's legacy would continue to shape the Avengers' future, with his return and eventual transformation into a hero in his own right. Wonder Man will join the MCU as he stars in his own Disney+ series, starring Yahya Abdul-Mateen II.

The Avengers Annual #10


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Avengers Annual #10, released in 1981, is a landmark issue that introduces one of the most iconic mutant characters in Marvel history — Rogue. Written by Chris Claremont with artwork by Michael Golden, Rogue initially appears as a threat to the Avengers when she kidnaps Ms. Marvel in an effort to steal her powers, but her encounter with the Avengers leads to a fierce battle. The issue highlights Rogue's internal struggle with her newfound abilities and her desire for redemption, setting the stage for her eventual membership in the X-Men. Rogue first appeared in film in the 2000 X-Men film played by Anna Paquin, and she's expected to return soon for the upcoming MCU X-Men reboot.

Batman #608


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Batman #608, released in 2002, is the first chapter of the critically acclaimed Hush storyline, written by Jeph Loeb with artwork by Jim Lee. This issue reintroduces a darker, more mysterious Gotham, as Batman faces a series of personal and professional challenges that seem connected to a new villain known only as Hush. As Batman uncovers clues and battles familiar foes like the Joker, Catwoman and Poison Ivy, he starts to realize there's a shadowy figure pulling the strings behind the chaos. This series is gaining in popularity now following an announcement of an upcoming sequel storyline.

DC: The New Frontier #1


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DC: The New Frontier #1, released in 2004, is the first issue of a celebrated miniseries written and illustrated by the legendary Darwyn Cooke. Set in the 1950s, it reimagines the dawn of the Silver Age of DC Comics, bringing together iconic heroes like Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman and the Flash as they navigate the shifting political and social landscape of the post-World War II era. The issue introduces a gritty, noir-inspired take on the characters, portraying them as symbols of hope and justice in a world that’s increasingly cynical and divided. Collectors are grabbing up this issue upon speculation of its influence in the new James Gunn-led DC cinematic universe.

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