Pretty Penny: The Most Expensive Comics and Why

by Matthew Russell - Posted 11 months ago



Welcome my CryptoComics Compatriots. As many of you know, I have an extensive comic collection that I cherish. I started collecting when I was younger (August of 1985 to be precise). Not only was I a regular at Cliff’s Comic World (shout out to Cliff’s) but I also hit every 2nd hand store and antique shop, looking for my valued treasure.


I managed to amass quite a collection by my early 20s. That was until I had to start over. 


My personal collection was valued at just over $80k back in 2000, and they were all stolen from my apartment. Since then, I have been able to buy many of those same issues that had personal value to me, but my current collection is nowhere near the same value financially. 


This brings us to our topic today, What are the Most Expensive Comics, & Why? Now, I will let you know that I did not have any of these comics on the list today, although I often dream of it. 


Comic books have been a staple in popular culture for over a century, captivating audiences with their vivid stories and illustrations. However, some comics have become incredibly valuable over the years, with some selling for millions of dollars. Here is a look at some of the most expensive comics and why they are so valuable.


Here are the top 10 most expensive comics in history and why they are considered so valuable:

Action Comics #1 (1938) - $3.2 million

This comic book features the first appearance of Superman, one of the most iconic and enduring comic book characters of all time. As a result, it is considered one of the most valuable comic books in the world.

Detective Comics #27 (1939) - $2.1 million

This comic book features the first appearance of Batman, one of the most iconic and enduring comic book characters of all time. As a result, it is considered one of the most valuable comic books in the world.

Captain America Comics #1 (1941) - $1.5 million

This comic book features the first appearance of Captain America, a superhero created during World War II who has become a cultural icon. As a result, it is considered one of the most valuable comic books in the world.

Superman #1 (1939) - $1 million

This comic book features the first issue of the standalone series for Superman, one of the most iconic and enduring comic book characters of all time. As a result, it is considered one of the most valuable comic books in the world.

Amazing Fantasy #15 (1962) - $900,000

This comic book features the first appearance of Spider-Man, one of the most iconic and enduring comic book characters of all time. As a result, it is considered one of the most valuable comic books in the world.

Batman #1 (1940) - $850,000

This comic book features the first issue of the standalone series for Batman, one of the most iconic and enduring comic book characters of all time. As a result, it is considered one of the most valuable comic books in the world.

X-Men #1 (1963) - $750,000

This comic book features the first appearance of the X-Men, a team of mutants who have become some of the most iconic and enduring comic book characters of all time. As a result, it is considered one of the most valuable comic books in the world.

Fantastic Four #1 (1961) - $700,000

This comic book features the first appearance of the Fantastic Four, a team of superheroes who have become some of the most iconic and enduring comic book characters of all time. As a result, it is considered one of the most valuable comic books in the world.

Showcase #22 (1959) - $625,000

This comic book features the first appearance of the Flash, one of the most iconic and enduring comic book characters of all time. As a result, it is considered one of the most valuable comic books in the world.

Tales of Suspense #39 (1963) - $600,000

This comic book features the first appearance of Iron Man, one of the most iconic and enduring comic book characters of all time. As a result, it is considered one of the most valuable comic books in the world.


Note: The values mentioned are from recent sales and may vary depending on the condition of the comic book, the market conditions, and other factors. These are only rough estimates and not official values.


These comic books are expensive for several reasons, including their historical significance, rarity, and condition. The fewer copies that exist, the higher the value of the comic book. Additionally, the condition of the comic book also plays a significant role in its value. Comics that are well-preserved, with no rips, tears, or yellowing, are considered more valuable.


Another Note: This is specifically directed to my buddy Frey. He loves to rub it in that I am personally a DC Comics fan. I would just like to point out that out of the top 10, 5 are DC Comics and take up the top 2 slots as the most expensive comics in history.


In conclusion, comic books have become valuable collectible items and cultural icons. The most expensive comics are a testament to the popularity of these books/characters and their impact on popular culture. Whether you are a fan of superheroes, science fiction, or romance, there is a comic book out there for everyone, and some of them are worth a small fortune.