Controversial comics have been with us probably as long as comic books have existed. Some are funny, some offensive, but all of them pique our interest. They give us an insight into the art, culture and the zeitgeist of what was. Controversial comics can act as a critical lens to view and understand our past. But are these comic books practical investments? I picked out three different types of contro-comics: the naughty, the shockingly horrible, and the funny. Enjoy.
Artists can be very outspoken and even naughty; few covers show that as well as Daredevil #48. Can you find the offensive language on this cover? If you were looking closely at the marquee it reads one naughty word and the actions of Stilt-man and Daredevil's position suggest potty humor.
According to CBR.com, Gene Colan (artist) for many early Daredevil issues "decided to go for some "cheeky" humor on this cover where he shows Daredevil falling from seemingly between Stilt-Man's legs. If you examined the cover as occurring literally, then it would likely cause Stilt-Man some discomfort if Daredevil actually came out of his body like that. The marquee below shows what kind of pain he might feel" (Source: CBR).
Sure this book is controversial but is it profitable?
Long-Term Returns:
- Grade 9.6 $167.50 recent price, returns negative -48.4%
- Grade 9.4 $176 recent price, returns negative -5.8%
- Grade 9.2 $155 recent price, returns positive +67.4%
- Grade 8.5 $54.99 recent price, returns positive +10.4%
- Grade 7.0 $22.50 recent price, returns positive +98.5%
Everything up to near mint is really rocking for this Daredevil #48 comic. For some reason, the higher grades like 9.6 and 9.4 are not participating. This could be as simple as people skewing results by a quick cheap sale. Whatever the reason this controversial comic book will not be a pain in your rear (yep, I went there).
Rise of the Black Panther #1 Variant
This book was a controversial variant with Stan Lee's signature stamped on the cover. But that is nothing, the controversy is what the ink is made of; Stan Lee's blood (referred to as STan Lee's Solvent DNA ink). "This includes a numbered hologram sticker printed with the words "Hands of Respect" and a COA or Certificate of Authenticity" (Source: KCC). There was huge outrage before Stan died, but I had no idea that his blood was actually combined with ink in comic book format. Good lord! Crazy huh, and definitely controversial.
Around April 2018 news of Stan Lee's blood being used for autographs leaked out. Apparently, one of his business associates used Stan's medical condition and fooled the nurse with documents to have her withdraw some of Stan's blood. Talk about sacrificing for art, poor Stan. His family eventually interceded with authorities and hopefully, that associate was brought to justice. What a sacrilege against a living (at that time) Marvel Icon. I don't have any numbers on this book but did see one for sale on eBay at $125 starting bid, there are some sick puppies out there. This is not something that a legitimate investor or speculator would have anything to do with, completely unethical.
That last topic and comic were a little grim so I thought I would end with a funny conto-comic. Betty and Archie have been entertaining people for years, and can usually be pretty funny in a mundane way. This book "yanks your chain" just a tad. The cover of Betty and Me #16 depicts Betty and Archie with him lifting her out of the water with a comment that could be a double entendre. At least it is funny and definitely makes the list of cover controversies. But honestly, you could take this cover either way.
This book actually has a few good returns:
- Grade 8.0 returns positive +12.3%
- Grade 5.5 returns positive +259%
- Grade 7.0 sold for $416 in 2019
Archie saves the day (smile) and it happens to be a profitable book ta boot, go figure. This is a fun book you can share with your pals and laugh about. On that note: "Hasta la Vista!"
