Take a Bite of Speculation: Vampirella #1

Vampirella is storming the ranks of the top 100 most popular Silver Age comic books (GoCollect.com). Recently, her popularity soared sending her book up 365 rankings to the 95th most popular Silver Age book. Who is this beauteous bloodsucker? Is she worthy of cultlike speculation worship or a stake through the heart? Vampirella first appeared on the cover of Vampirella #1.

The cover was created by none other than the great 20th Century fantasy artist Frank Frazetta. He helped breathe life into this supernatural sexy superhero. The character was created by Forrest Ackerman, Don Glut, and Nicola Cuti. The art team was Frazetta, Reed Crandall, and Neal Adams. Yep, that Neal Adams! This team created a sultry succubus that happens to be heroic. Kind of a twist for the times I suppose. Does this extraordinary vampire tale have a profitable ending?

Vampirella #1

This introduction of Vampirella in original costume and wings stands the test of time. The cherry on top; is adorned with a Frank Frazetta cover. The interior art for Vampirella #1 was done by Adams and Crandall as noted above in 1969. Trina Robbins designed her costume and hairstyle. Thank you, Trina. Vampirella is not from around here. She is a space vamp from the planet Drakulon. Her mission on Earth eliminates all of Dracula's den of vampires and takes out the big boy himself if possible. The premise is fun and lighthearted and often the writing could be a tad "tongue in cheek." 

Vampirella's Success

None can fault Vampirella's success starts in 1969 and runs until the present day with the wonderful Dynamite Comics folks taking up her mantle. Her initial series was so popular it crossed the entire 70s and lasted unit 1983. Initially owned by Warren Publishing today Dynamite Comics has the rights and has redone her story every two-to-three years since they took control. Obviously, this superhero has a certain, shall we say, visceral draw for fans? But the fact Vampirella has lasted 51 years puts the mark of permanence on this character for pop culture.

Conclusion

The nature of Vampirella is usually a naughty girl that ultimately does the right thing, along with a little bad. She started out as a hostess of horror and became the top draw of the Warren Publishing comic she first appeared in. That instant popularity has led her fifty years later toward some significant one-year returns and has even sprouted wings to fly away with a profit. Vampirella #1 is well over the $7000 mark for grade 9.4 with the grade 7.0 low-end not exactly cheap by any means at $803.

Now, this is a nuanced comic, a very adult comic book from back in the day. More than likely older collectors would be interested in these "classic" comics. Probably better suited to the Silver and Bronze collectors who understand the character. I doubt modern-day speculators would pay that kind of money for a more recent title. But this is truly a long-lasting character that obviously appeals to young libidos. I can't wait to see Vampirella #1 ranked in the top ten someday.