Got Any Old Comic Books Lying Around?
Some collectibles gather dust, while others gather millions. Luckily, comic books fall into the latter category, but only if you have the right ones! The most sought-after comics have fetched staggering prices, proving that superheroes don’t just save the day—they can also supercharge your bank account. So, let's take a look at the ones that could make you a fortune.
1. Action Comics #1 (1938)
“Action Comics #1” gave the world Superman in 1938, and collectors have been chasing it ever since. On April 4, 2024, a CGC 8.5 Kansas City pedigree copy flew past records, selling for a mind-blowing $6 million! With fewer than 100 copies remaining, it’s truly comic book royalty.
The History Of Action Comics #1. by The Geek Of Steel
2. Superman #1 (1939)
The Man of Steel went solo in “Superman #1” back in 1939, and it’s been flying high ever since! That's why, in 2022, a copy of this issue zoomed to a record $5.3 million in a private sale. It is one of the most sought-after comics, with its rarity and historical significance making it a top contender in a high-value collection.
Superman Number 1 Comic Book Summer 1939 - Page by page review by Great Lake Auctions
3. Amazing Fantasy #15 (1962)
"Amazing Fantasy #15" (1962) is where it all began for Spider-Man, and it’s no surprise that this comic has become one of the most valuable in history. A copy of this issue sold for an incredible $3.6 million, which shows that Spider-Man's debut continues to be a top prize for serious collectors, and its significance only grows with time.
Amazing Fantasy #15 Story and Page Count - Marvel Comics 1962 - 1st Spider-Man! by Comic Buying
4. Captain America Comics #1 (1941)
"Captain America Comics #1" marked the debut of one of the most iconic superheroes of all time. One of its copies from the San Francisco Pedigree sold for around $3,120,000, showcasing just how valuable this comic has become. As Cap's legacy continues to inspire, this issue remains a top prize for collectors.
Captain America Comics #1 CGC High Grade! RARE! MUST WATCH! By LeeKirbyDitkoComics
5. Batman #1 (1940)
“Batman #1” (1940) is the comic that introduced the Joker and Catwoman, which makes it a cornerstone of Batman lore. However, despite its fame, no mint-condition copy has ever been reported. Plus, the highest-graded version, a CGC NM 9.4, set a record in January 2021, selling for an impressive $2.22 million.
Batman #1 CGC High Grade! RARE! MUST WATCH! By LeeKirbyDitkoComics
6. Fantastic Four #1 (1961)
Who needs the stock market when you’ve got a rock-solid investment like “Fantastic Four #1?” This 1961 gem didn’t just introduce Marvel’s first family—it kicked off the entire Marvel Age! First appearances, Marvel’s origins, and a die-hard fanbase make this one a white-hot collectible. That’s why a CGC 9.6 copy sold for $2,040,000.
7. Detective Comics #27 (1939)
The Dark Knight's debut in “Detective Comics #27” is the stuff of comic book legend. In 2024, a CGC 6.5 copy sold for $1.82 million at the ComicConnect Event Auction 57, beating its previous sale of $1.74 million in 2022! So, if you’ve got this book, you’re basically holding the Batcave’s golden ticket.
8. Marvel Comics #1 (1939)
This comic in 1939 kicked off the Marvel Universe, as it introduced timeless characters like the Human Torch and Sub-Mariner. Its mint condition copy, graded CGC 9.4 NM, made waves in November 2019 when it sold for around $1.26 million. Such a sale price shows just how much collectors value the comic that started it all.
Today in Marvel History: MARVEL COMICS #1 is Released! by Marvel Entertainment
9. Flash Comics #1 (1939)
“Flash Comics #1” brought the original Flash, Jay Garrick, and became a milestone in comic book history. The highest recorded sale of #1 was $1,000,000 for a Pedigree copy. This sale underscores the comic’s lasting significance and value, especially with the ongoing popularity of the Flash in both comics and film.
Flash Comics #1 (Flash Story) Comic Reading by Comicman1938
10. All-Star Comics #8 (1941)
“All-Star Comics #8” holds its value because it introduced Wonder Woman, a game-changing superhero who redefined the genre. Unlike Batman or Superman, she debuted in a backup story, meaning fewer collectors paid attention at the time. Hence, a copy of this issue was sold for $936,000—no small feat by any measure.
All Star Comics #8 1st Appearance Wonder Woman CGC High Grade! RARE! MUST WATCH!
11. Tales of Suspense #39 (1963)
“Tales of Suspense #39” (1963) introduced the world to Iron Man, but Tony Stark’s first armor looked more like a walking furnace than high-class tech. Still, that clunky debut laid the foundation for a fan-favorite hero, which led to its sale for an astounding $840,000 at a Heritage Auction.
Tales of Suspense #39 Story and Page Count - Marvel Comics 1963 - Iron Man by Comic Buying
12. The Brave & The Bold #28 (1955)
This one on the list brought the legendary Justice League of America, making it a key issue in comic book history. Its CGC-certified 9.6 copy sold for an impressive $750,000. This sale reflects the high demand and immense value of the first appearance of DC’s iconic superhero team.
13. X-Men #1 (1963)
Ever wondered what the price tag is on the comic that introduced the X-Men? In 2012, a Pacific Coast edition of "X-Men #1" (1963), graded CGC 9.8 NM/M, sold for a hefty $492,938! As the first appearance of the mutant team, this comic continues to be one of the most prized issues in the Marvel universe.
14. Incredible Hulk #1 (1962)
“Incredible Hulk #1” smashed its way into history in 1962 by introducing the not-so-jolly green giant himself. But here’s the kicker—Hulk wasn’t even green at first! This issue debuted Bruce Banner’s monstrous alter ego in an odd shade of gray before Marvel settled on his iconic color. Due to this rarity, one issue was bought by a collector for $490,000.
15. Sensation Comics #1 (1942)
Created by William Moulton Marston and artist H.G. Peter, this issue laid the foundation for one of the most enduring superheroes of all time. Its one copy sold for $420,000 at Heritage Auctions in 2024, reflecting both its rarity in top condition and the lasting cultural impact of Wonder Woman.
Sensation Comics #1 35g Pure Silver Foil by Agoro
16. The Amazing Spider-Man #1 (1963)
Before Spidey was slinging webs across skyscrapers on a monthly basis, “The Amazing Spider-Man #1” (1963) was where it all began! A CGC 9.6 copy of this issue sold for $336,000, solidifying its place as a key comic in Spider-Man’s history. As the web-slinger continues to excite audiences worldwide, this comic remains a highly coveted collector's item.
Original 1963 Amazing Spider-Man #1 Comic Book/ Let's Look Inside by LeeKirbyDitkoComics
17. Avengers #1 (1963)
Before the Avengers dominated the big screen, they first assembled in “Avengers #1” (1963), and that alone makes this issue a goldmine. This comic kicked off one of the most legendary superhero teams in history, uniting Iron Man, Thor, Hulk, Ant-Man, and Wasp for the first time. It’s the birth of a dynasty, due to which its well-kept issue sold for $250,000.
A look at an original AVENGERS #1 from 1963! by Crypto Comics
18. Daredevil #1 (1964)
Created by Stan and Bill, Daredevil #1 created a character who would become one of Marvel's most iconic street-level heroes. Its value skyrocketed to $250,000 in 2021 due to its historical significance, early Silver Age rarity, and the enduring popularity of Daredevil after successful TV adaptations.
daredevil #1 plus! by Daniel Cochran
19. Journey Into Mystery #83 (1962)
"Journey Into Mystery #83," published by Marvel Comics in 1962, holds a special place in comic book history as the first appearance of Thor, the Norse god turned superhero. Once sold for $222,200 in high-grade condition, the issue’s significance comes not only from Thor’s debut but also from its incredible artwork and storytelling.
LET'S LOOK INSIDE - JOURNEY INTO MYSTERY #83 by LeeKirbyDitkoComics
20. Showcase #4 (1956)
If the Silver Age of comics had a grand opening ceremony, “Showcase #4” (1956) would be the VIP pass. Think of it as the comic that rebooted the genre before reboots were even a thing! Its highest-graded copy sold for $177,000 back in 2009, long before superhero movies sent comic values soaring.
Showcase #4 Story and Page Count - DC Comics 1956 - FLASH by Comic Buying
