25 Rare and Most Valuable Comic Books Ever Sold

There are a lot of things in this world that hold value. Diamonds, gold, and other precious metals are some of the most commonly known items that have high worth. However, there are other objects that can be just as valuable- sometimes even more so. Comic books are a perfect example of this.

Comic books are a unique form of art that have been around for decades. They tell stories through pictures and dialogue, and often feature popular superheroes and villains. Some comic books are worth a lot of money. In this blog post, we will take a look at 25 rare and most valuable comic books ever sold!

Top 25 Rare and Most Valuable Comic Books Ever Sold

No.	Name	Year	Price
1	Justice League of America No. 1	1960	$215,100
2	Fantastic Comics No. 3	1939	$243,000
3	Action Comics No. 10	1939	$258,000
4	Pep Comics No. 22	1941	$252,100
5	Suspense Comics No. 3	1944	$262,900
6	The Amazing Spider-Man No. 1	1963	$262,900
7	The Avengers No. 1	1963	$274,850
8	Journey Into Mystery No. 83	1962	$275,000
9	Whiz Comics No. 2	1940	$281,000
10	Wonder Woman No. 1 with Promotional Materials	1941	$291,100
11	Fantastic Four No. 1	1961	$300,000
12	The Incredible Hulk No. 1	1962	$326,000
13	Detective Comics No. 33	1939	$341,234
14	Tales of Suspense No. 39	1959	$375,000
15	Sensation Comics No. 1	1942	$399,100
16	Flash Comics No. 1	1940	$450,000
17	X-Men No. 1	1963	$492,937
18	Superman No. 1	1939	$507,500
19	All Star Comics No. 8	1941	$936,000
20	Amazing Fantasy No. 15	1962	$1.1 million
21	Marvel Comics No. 1	1931	$1.26 million
22	Detective Comics No. 27	1939	$1.5 million
23	Batman No. 1	1940	$2.22 million
24	Captain America Comics No. 1	1941	$3.10 million
25	Action Comics No. 1	1938	$3.18 million

1. Justice League of America No. 1

Year: 1960

Price: $215,100

The debut issue of Justice League of America was published in 1960 and it featured the debuts of Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, The Flash, Green Lantern, and Aquaman, who teamed up to stop a rampaging alien starfish. The issue was an instant hit with readers, and the Justice League has become one of the most popular superhero teams in comic book history.

Not surprisingly, the comic book has been highly sought-after by collectors over the years. In 2018, it was sold at Heritage Auctions for a record-setting price of $215,100.

2. Fantastic Comics No. 3

Year: 1939

Price: $243,000

 

The third issue of Fantastic Comics is one of the most highly prized issues in the comic book world. Published in 1939, it features an incredible cover by famed artist Lou Fine. The cover of Fantastic Comics No. 3 is certainly eye-catching, it’s no wonder that this comic sold for $243,000 at auction.

3. Action Comics No. 10

Year: 1939

Price: $258,000

Action Comics No. 10 features the third cover appearance of Superman and is considered to be one of the most valuable comic books in the world. The comic was sold for $258,000 in 2011 at auction and helped a family pay off mortgage, making it one of the most expensive Action Comics issue ever sold.

4. Pep Comics No. 22

Year: 1941

Price: $252,100

In 2017, a copy of Pep Comics No. 22 sold at auction for $252,100, making it one of the most expensive comic books ever sold. The comic book achieved this high price because it contains the first appearance of Archie Andrews, one of the most popular and enduring comic book characters of all time.

5. Suspense Comics No. 3

Year: 1944

Price: $262,900

“Suspense Comics” No. 3 is one of the most valuable comic books in the world, due largely to its unique cover. The cover, which was drawn by Alex Schomburg, depicts a damsel in distress who has been tied up and surrounded by sinister robed figures bearing swastikas. This dark and foreboding image helped to set the tone for the entire comic, which was known for its suspenseful and often terrifying storylines.

Thanks to its historical significance and iconic cover, “Suspense Comics” No. 3 sold for an impressive $262,900 at auction in 2017.

6. The Amazing Spider-Man No. 1

Year: 1963

Price: $262,900

A copy of The Amazing Spider-Man No. 1 sold at auction in 2017 for $262,900, setting a new record for the most expensive Silver Age comic book. The Amazing Spider-Man No. 1 was published in 1963 and is considered to be one of the most important issues in the history of comic books. It is the first appearance of Spider-Man, and it also features the introduction of Chameleon.

7. The Avengers No. 1

Year: 1963

Price: $274,850

The Avengers is a team of superheroes that first came together in 1963. The team was originally composed of Thor, Iron Man, the Hulk, Ant-Man and the Wasp. Over the years, the team has undergone many lineup changes, but its core members have always been some of the most popular superheroes in the Marvel Universe.

Recently, a copy of The Avengers No. 1, which is the first issue of the series, sold for $274,850 at an auction. The high price is likely due to the fact that The Avengers No. 1 is a key issue in the history of the Marvel Universe. It is also one of the most iconic comic books ever published.

8. Journey Into Mystery No. 83

Year: 1962

Price: $275,000

In 2014, a copy of Journey Into Mystery No. 83 sold for $275,000, making it one of the most expensive comic books ever sold. The issue, which was published in 1962, featured the first appearance of Thor, one of the most popular Marvel superheroes. Given the character’s enduring popularity, it’s no surprise that this historic comic book would fetch such a high price at auction.

9. Whiz Comics No. 2

Year: 1940

Price: $281,000

In 1940, Captain Marvel made his first appearance in Whiz Comics No. 2. Published by M.F. Captain Marvel was an instant hit with readers. However, DC Comics quickly took notice of the character’s similarities to Superman and filed a lawsuit against M.F. Enterprises for copyright infringement. In the end, the court ruled in favor of DC Comics, ordering M.F. Enterprises to cease publication of Captain Marvel comics.

Although the character is no longer being published by M.F. Enterprises, a copy of Whiz Comics No. 2 is highly valuable and sold for $281,000 in 2012.

10. Wonder Woman No. 1

Year: 1942

Price: $291,100

In 2016, a copy of Wonder Woman No. 1 with promotional materials sold for $291,100 – making it the most expensive comic book featuring a female protagonist ever sold. Wonder Woman is America’s first superheroine and has been an important figure in popular culture for over 75 years.

11. Fantastic Four No. 1

Year: 1961

Price: $300,000

In 1961 the world was introduced to the Fantastic Four. Created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, the superhero team quickly became one of the most popular comic book properties of all time. The comic is one of the most iconic and important comics in history. It is also one of the most valuable, with copies regularly selling for six figures.

12. The Incredible Hulk No. 1

Year: 1962

Price: $326,000

In May 1962, Bruce Banner first transformed into the Incredible Hulk in the pages of The Incredible Hulk No. 1. At the time, he wasn’t green-skinned; in fact, he was originally depicted as gray. It wasn’t until issue #2 that he became the green-skinned beast that we all know and love today. Despite his brief stint as a gray creature, the Hulk has remained one of the most popular superheroes ever since his debut.

In 2014, a copy of The Incredible Hulk No. 1 sold for $326,000 at auction, making it one of the most valuable comic books in existence.

13. Detective Comics No. 33

Year: 1939

Price: $341,234

Detective Comics No. 33 is a holy grail for Batman collectors because it features his origin story. It’s no wonder, then, that a 9.2-graded copy of the comic sold for $341,234 on ComicConnect in 2018. While it is not the most valuable comic book in existence, it is a clear testament to the enduring appeal of the Dark Knight.

14. Tales of Suspense No. 39

Year: 1959

Price: $375,000

In 1959, Marvel Comics released Tales of Suspense No. 39, which featured the first appearance of Iron Man. The character was created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, two of the most prolific and influential comic book creators of all time.

Since his debut, Iron Man has gone on to become one of the most popular superheroes in the world, starring in his own movies, video games, and more. The character’s popularity has led to high demand for comic books featuring his first appearance. In 2012, a copy of Tales of Suspense No. 39 graded 9.6 sold for $375,000.

15. Sensation Comics No. 1

Year: 1942

Price: $399,100

DC Comics’ “Sensation Comics” was a 109-issue series that primarily featured Wonder Woman adventures. The series was one of the first to feature a female superhero as the lead character, and helped to pave the way for future female comics characters. Today, “Sensation Comics” is a highly sought-after collectible, and is sure to continue to increase in value in the years to come.  On eBay in 2017, a customer paid $399,100 for “Sensation Comics.”

16. Flash Comics No. 1

Year: 1940

Price: $450,000

In 2010, a copy of Flash Comics No. 1 sold for $450,000 at auction. The comic book, which was published in 1940, features the first appearance of the Flash and Hawkman. Although the exact number of copies that remain in existence is unknown, it is believed that there are less than 100 copies still in existence. Given its rarity and historic importance, it is not surprising that this comic book has achieved such a high price tag.

17. X-Men No. 1

Year: 1963

Price: $492,937

In 2012, a well-kept copy of “X-Men” No. 1 sold for over $490,000, making it the most expensive comic book ever sold. This comic book marks the first appearance of iconic X-Men, including Charles Xavier, Magneto Cyclops, Jean Grey, Beast and Iceman. The 9.8 grading indicates that the condition of the comic book is nearly perfect, making this particular copy extremely rare and valuable.

18. Superman No. 1

Year: 1939

Price: $507,500

The first “Superman” comic is rare to begin with and then notoriously difficult to find in good shape. The copy that sold for $507,500 in 2017 was graded as a 5.5, which means it was in only fair condition. While the high price may seem inexplicable to non-collectors, it is actually quite reasonable when one considers the comic’s history and rarity. Due to its age and fragility, surviving copies are exceedingly rare, making it one of the most coveted comics among collectors.

19. All Star Comics No. 8

Year: 1941

Price: $936,000

All Star Comics No. 8 is a highly valuable comic book, due in large part to its starring character, Wonder Woman. The 9.0 copy of the comic book sold for $411,000 at auction in 2016, making it one of the most valuable comics ever sold.

20. Amazing Fantasy No. 15

Year: 1962

Price: $1.1 million

The first appearance of Spider-Man is one of the most coveted comics in the world, and it was recently sold at auction for a record-breaking $1.1 million. Published in 1962, the comic features the origin story of Spider-Man, as well as the first appearances of several key characters. The copy that was sold at auction is believed to be one of the finest examples in existence, making it an extremely valuable piece of comic history.

21. Marvel Comics No. 1

Year: 1931

Price: $1.26 million

The first issue of “Marvel Comics” hit newsstands in 1931, and it featured the first appearances of Sub-Mariner, the Human Torch and Angel. Because it is the first issue, it is extremely valuable. In fact, a copy sold for $1.26 million on Heritage Auctions in 2011. The high price tag is due to the rarity of the comic book because there are only a handful of complete, pristine copies left in existence.

22. Detective Comics No. 27

Year: 1939

Price: $1.5 million

When Batman made his first appearance in the pages of “Detective Comics” No. 27 in 1939, he quickly established himself as a popular comic book character. In the following years, Batman would go on to star in his own comic book series, appear in numerous TV shows and movies, and become one of the most recognizable fictional characters in the world.

Not surprisingly, the issue of “Detective Comics” No. 27 in which Batman made his debut is now considered to be a valuable collector’s item. In 2020, a copy of the comic sold for $1.5 million, making it the fourth most expensive comic book ever sold. While Batman’s first appearance may have been valued at just a few cents when it was first published, it is now clear that this historic issue is worth a fortune.

23. Batman No. 1

Year: 1940

Price: $2.22 million

Batman No. 1 is certainly a rare comic, and it’s no wonder that it sold for such a high price. The comic marks the first appearance of two of Batman’s most iconic villains, the Joker and Catwoman. Batman himself had made his debut just a year earlier in Detective Comics No. 27.

In January 2021, a copy of Batman No. 1 sold for $2.22 million at auction. Given the historical significance of the comic, it’s not surprising that it would fetch such a high price at auction.

24. Captain America Comics No. 1

Year: 1941

Price: $3.10 million

Earlier this year, a very rare comic book sold at auction for $3.1 million. The comic in question was ‘Captain America Comics’ No. 1, which was published in 1940 and features the first appearance of Captain America and his sidekick, Bucky. The issue was bought by an anonymous bidder, who paid significantly more than the estimated value. The comic book is significant not only for its historic value, but also for its condition.

This is not the first time that a copy of ‘Captain America Comics’ No. 1 has sold for a high price. In 2019, another copy sold for almost a million dollars.

25. Action Comics No. 1

Year: 1983

Price: $3.18 million

The 1938 “Action Comics” No. 1 is the holy grail of comic books, and for good reason. It’s the first appearance of Superman, one of the most iconic superheroes of all time. Over the years, copies of this rare comic have sold for millions of dollars. In 2014, a 9.0-graded copy fetched $3,207,852 on eBay. And before that sale, a 9.0 copy that belonged to actor Nicolas Cage sold for $2.161 million in 2011. If you’re lucky enough to own a copy of this rare comic, you could be sitting on a goldmine.

How to Find Value of Your Comic Book Collection

There are a few ways to determine the value of your comic book collection. The most common method is to look up the prices of similar items online or in comic book price guides. This can give you a general idea of how much your comics are worth, but it’s important to keep in mind that prices can vary depending on the condition of the comics and the current market conditions.

Another way to estimate the value of your comic book collection is to have it appraised by a professional. This will provide you with a more accurate estimate, but it will also likely cost more money.

Ultimately, the best way to determine the value of your comic book collection is to find a buyer who is willing to pay what you think it’s worth. This may take some time and effort, but it will ultimately give you the most accurate estimate of your comics’ value.

What Makes a Comic Book Valuable?

Comic books are frequently dismissed as juvenile entertainment, but they can actually be quite valuable. In addition to being collectible items, comic books can tell us a lot about our history and culture. They often reflect the zeitgeist of their time, exploring social issues and offering commentary on current events. For example, the early Batman comics tackled gang violence, while more recent titles like Ms. Marvel have explored themes of diversity and inclusion.

Some comic books are so expensive because they are rare. For example, there may be only a handful of copies in existence, or the comic may be the first appearance of a popular character. Condition also plays a role in determining the value of a comic book. A copy that is in mint condition is worth far more than one that has been well-read and well-loved.

How to Sell Your Comic Books

When it comes to selling a comic collection, there are a few options available. One option is to find a local comics shop that is interested in purchasing your comics. Another option is to sell your comics online through a website or auction site. Finally, you could also hold your own garage sale or Comic-Con sale.

Regardless of which route you choose, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, be sure to price your comics fairly. Overpriced comics will likely sit unsold, while underpriced comics will leave you earning less money than you could have. Second, be prepared to negotiate with potential buyers. Many buyers will try to lowball you, so it’s important to be firm in your asking price. Finally, be patient! Selling a comic collection can take time, but ultimately it’s worth it when you find the right buyer who is willing to pay what your comics are worth.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the 25 rare and most valuable comic books ever sold provide a fascinating glimpse into the world of comic book collecting. From early issues of Superman to rare variants of modern classics, these comics represent some of the most highly sought-after collectibles in the world. While the prices paid for these comics may seem astronomical to some, collectors are willing to pay top dollar for comics that are both rare and in mint condition.

For those who are interested in building their own collection of rare and valuable comics, the list above provides a great starting point. With a little research and patience, you too could one day own one of these valuable pieces of pop culture history.