For nearly a century, comic books have brought to life some of the most beloved fictional characters. These books suspend reality and make the world believe superheroes are real and that they can be anyone. That’s why fans everywhere continue to grow and expand their collections, hoping one day to find some of the rarest books still in existence.

What Are Some of the Most Valuable Comic Books?

1. Action Comics Volume 1 Issue 1

DC Comics has put out a lot of well-known characters since starting in 1934, but there is probably not one better recognized than Superman. The Kryptonian made his first appearance in 1938 in the premiere issue of DC’s fourth title, Action Comics. The comic laid out the superhero’s origin story and told how Clark Kent evolved into Superman, “champion of the oppressed.” When it last appeared at auction, this issue sold for a record-breaking $3.2 million, and you’ll be hard-pressed to find one of the remaining copies for less than $100,000.

2. Amazing Fantasy Volume 1 Issue 15

Although Spider-man may have been Stan Lee’s favorite character, he wasn’t held in high regard by the publishers at Marvel Comics initially. They only agreed to introduce the character in the Amazing Fantasy series in 1962 because it was ending. The issue went on to become one of Marvel’s highest-selling at the time, which resulted in The Amazing Spider-Man series a few months later. Today, Peter Parker’s debut issue is hard to come by, and those that have made it auction in good condition over the last decade have sold for anything from $140,000 to $1.1 million.  

3. Star Wars Volume 1 Issue 1

Several months before the first Star Wars movie released in theaters in 1977, Marvel Comics introduced Luke, Leia, and Han to comic book fans. Unfortunately, the Expanded Universe series didn’t get any real recognition until fans started flocking to see the film. It then went on to be Marvels’ top-selling series from 1979 to 1980.

Unfortunately, by this time, many of the original first issue copies sold had likely ended up a landfill. This was also the issue Marvel decided to test run its 35c price tag, which ended up on 1,500 copies. Finding a 30c copy in good condition can fetch one to two thousand dollars at auction, but the super rare 35c copy has sold for up to $27,000.

Whether you want to grow or reduce your comic book collection, head to Collector’s Palace Coins & Jewelry in Streetsboro, OH. Since 1990, this local pawn shop has been buying and selling a variety of antiques and collectibles to Northeast Ohio. Their team consists of CGC affiliates, who are trained to determine the grade of comic books based on their condition. Call them today at (330) 626-2464 to discuss your collection and visit their store online to view their current selection.