Silver Age
Silver Surfer #4
This book has three big things going for it. First, it features the first meeting/battle of Silver Surfer and Thor. First meeting books have started to grow in value in recent years, so the book could see some renewed interest from that. Second, the book features the second appearance of Mephisto. Many investors look for second appearances when a character's first appearance becomes too expensive. The third, and biggest, reason to buy this book, however, is the cover art. This iconic cover by John Buscema has been homaged dozens of times and thus earned a notoriety it would not have had otherwise.
Graded Analysis: This book is way up all-time in nearly every single grade, so investors should feel a certain degree of confidence when buying. It is worth noting, however, that the book is incredibly expensive and out of reach for many would-be buyers. It is not until 6.0 that the FMV dips below $1000. On the positive side, even lower grades have enjoyed solid year-over-year gains, so there is still an opportunity for more budget-conscious buyers
Bronze Age
Defenders #2
This is the book where the Silver Surfer joins the Defenders. Generally speaking, I am not a huge fan of membership keys, but in this case an exception is warranted. The Silver Surfer is one of the most significant members of the Defenders and its many different incarnations. He has quasi-founder status in the same way Captain America has it for the Avengers. Also, the Silver Surfer did not appear in that many books during the Bronze age and fewer still that would represent a good investment.
Graded Analysis: The book has enjoyed solid growth in nearly every grade, but it is important to note that the profit margins differ wildly. Make sure that, if you do look to invest, you understand how the book sells in different grades.
Copper Age
Silver Surfer #34
Much like the first entry in this article, there is a lot to love about Silver Surfer #34. For one thing, it marks the beginning of Jim Starlin's run on the Silver Surfer title. Starlin's run on the character was transformative and his collaboration with Ron Lim (which also started with this issue) is one of the most iconic chapters in Silver Surfer's history. Second, this book also features the resurrection of Thanos. Death generally means very little in comic books, but for a character like Thanos, who is so deeply connected to Death and amongst Starlin's greatest creations, his return has an added significance.
Graded Analysis: The sales history of this book is incredibly erratic in nearly every grade. Those looking to invest need to make sure they are buying low and willing to wait for the right buyer at the right price. It is important to remember, however, that this book was published in the 90s and thus has not had nearly as much time to accrue value. This is just my personal belief, but I think that this book could be in line for substantial gains over the long term.
Conclusion
That's all for this week folks! I hope you enjoyed this article about the Silver Surfer! Let me know what you thought and if you have any suggestions for this article or future topics. Next week, we tackle the Golden Avenger, the one and only invincible armored Iron Man!
