Marvel is notorious for reprinting highly sought and valuable comics that notate the first appearance of characters. Though, during that time, many of these Marvel superheroes did not have the popularity when they made their debut in the 1960s. Below is a very important key issue that involves your favorite heroes. Let's take a look at Marvel Tales #1!

Reprints, later prints, final printings, etc have become an established niche for comic collectors. There is a general feeling that the print run of later prints will be lower than the first print. Combine the low print run with demand, and that relates to a high cost. Though, the popularity of late prints did not start in the "Modern Age" of comics, but goes back as far as the "Silver Age".

The Elusive First

Comics involving the first appearance of Marvel staples such as The Incredible Hulk, Spider-Man, Ant-Man, Thor, and Nick Fury are awfully difficult to obtain. It is even more burdensome to find a comic for these characters in a very high grade.

Marvel realized this and started reprinting these classic comics to the public in a more affordable way.  Reprints were used by Marvel as a way to provide more exposure for these characters. Also, to provide an additional outlet for collectors to obtain issues for these characters. The issue I am referring to is Marvel Tales Vol. 2 Issue #1.

Marvel Tales Vol 2 Issue #1 is the premiere of the series and it carries many important details within. The issue denotes the first reprint of the first appearance of Spider-Man, The Incredible Hulk, Ant-Man, Giant-Man, Nick Fury and the Howling Commandos, Iron Man, and Thor.

The reprint of these characters is detailed as an 11-page reprint of the Amazing Fantasy #15, 6-page reprint of The Incredible Hulk #1, 13-page reprint of Tales to Astonish #35, 2-page reprint of Tales of Astonish #49, 6-page reprint of Sgt. Fury and him Howling Commandos, a 13-page reprint of Tales of Suspense #39, and a 13-page reprint of Journey into Mystery #83.

Dynamic Duo

This is an incredible issue that is written by the legendary duo of Stan Lee & Jack Kirby. Marvel fans who cannot afford the first appearance of these characters should consider this issue for themselves. The issue is very affordable in high grades. For example, a CGC grade of 8.5 is currently listed on GoCollect at a price of $875.

This issue could be very sneaky in the coming years if the characters mentioned above continue to rise in value. Meaning, the first appearance issues of these characters could get to a point where collectors will look elsewhere. An issue containing multiple first appearances falls in line with what has been spiking the comic market in the last couple of years.

In addition to receiving an issue completed by the marvelous duo of Lee and Kirby, the issue also comes with a 2-page biography of the Marvel creators. Issues during the "Silver Age" have started to spike in recent years. There is no indication that the trend will stop. Knowledge is important! Be on the lookout for this key issue the next time you go to your local comic shop.

Do you own a copy of Marvel Tales #1? Tell us in the comments!