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The Amazing Spider-Man #1 (Marvel, 1963) CGC NM 9.4 Off-white pages. Spider-Man is not only Marvel's most famous and enduring character, he's the star of two smash hit movies, with more to come. And Amazing Spider-Man is currently the most collected series in comics, making demand for this debut issue extremely high. It was only the character's second appearance overall after Amazing Fantasy #15. This book is ranked as the fourth most-valuable Silver Age comic book by Overstreet, topped only by the first appearances of the Fantastic Four, the Silver Age Flash, and Spidey himself. The issue also has the first appearance of a key member of Spidey's supporting cast, irascible newspaper publisher J. Jonah Jameson, and also reveals the origin of Jameson's grudge against the Webslinger -- it has to do with Jonah's son, astronaut John Jameson, who also makes his first appearance here and popped up in various storylines in the ensuing years. Lee's winning formula for the character of Spider-Man, plagued by everyday woes like paying the bills, was carried on here in two famous scenes: the first has the hero putting on a performance to make some money only to find out he can't cash a check that's made out to Spider-Man. Then he applies for membership in the Fantastic Four, asking "How much does the job pay? I figure I'm worth your top salary." The quartet of non-profit do-gooders can only shake their heads at that. Spider-Man even finds time to take on his first supervillain, the Chameleon. The story is of course by Lee (who can be forgiven for calling his character "Peter Palmer" in one panel), and the interior art is by Steve Ditko. The cover is billed as a team effort between Ditko and Jack Kirby -- it would appear that Jolly Jack did the layouts, and Sturdy Steve took care of the rest. Since copies of this comic were usually read, re-read, and read again, a 9.4 copy really makes us sit up and take notice. Only four copies of this issue have been certified with higher g
Auction 815 | Lot: 1005 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $55,200.00
Charles Schulz - Peanuts Daily Comic Strip Original Art, dated 10-3-51 (United Feature Syndicate, 1951). The existential angst of that round-headed kid, and the fleeting loyalty of his flop-eared pup... such are the themes of this exquisite early Peanuts, in which Charlie Brown learns that the price of friendship is the cost of a single ice cream cone. The complex relationship between a boy and his dog is only one of the joys to be found in this four-panel masterpiece, which also demonstrates the sure hand and supple linework of Maestro Schulz, who was only in his second year of drawing the strip (in fact, since Peanuts officially premiered on October 2, 1950, this strip marks the beginning of the strip's second year in syndication). This early installment features the early "versions" of the characters, including Charlie Brown's smaller feet and gi-normous head, and Snoopy's smaller, more puppy-like appearance. Patty, who does a walk-by in panel three, was one of the only other main characters to appear in these early strips, before the cast expanded to include Lucy, Linus, Schroeder, et al. We've had the privilege of offering many early Peanuts strips in the past, but this one is so iconic, so emblematic of the character of Good Ol' Charlie Brown, that we must proclaim it as the finest we've ever put up for public auction. The image area measures 27" x 5", and the art is in Excellent condition, folded (as virtually all of them are) between the second and third panels, and displaying some light smudging at the bottom of the fourth panel, but generally quite gorgeous. The piece has been professionally matted and framed, and is ready to go directly up on your wall.
Auction 815 | Lot: 4313 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $40,250.00
John Buscema - Avengers Annual #2 Cover Original Art (Marvel, 1968). When you talk about classic Silver Age Avengers covers, this one always comes up! John Buscema's pulse-pounding art catapults this masterful cover illustration from off the paper into our collective memories. The original Avengers (circa 1963) face-off against the current Avengers (circa 1968) in this poster like image from a very well remembered period of the Avengers. The Hulk, Captain America, Black Panther, Hawkeye, Giant-Man, Wasp, Thor, Iron Man... they're all here! John Buscema Avengers covers almost never pop up, and when they do, they are sure to command impressive prices. The art measures 11.5" x 16.5" with a 10" x 15" image area. There is some edge wear, editorial markings in marker along the edges, and white-out usage, otherwise this work is in Excellent condition. Includes the original logo and indicia type paste-ups. One of Big John's most prized pieces - bid today!
Auction 815 | Lot: 3100 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $34,500.00
Jack Kirby and Joe Sinnott - Fantastic Four #71 Cover Original Art (Marvel, 1967). It was sizzling, non-stop action as the Fantastic Four battled for their lives against the Mad Thinker's unstoppable android! With the Mad Thinker defeated and imprisoned, his nefarious plans for revenge were set into motion when he activated his most powerful creation, sending it on a killer quest to destroy the Fantastic Four, one by one! A pregnant Invisible Girl barely managed to avoid the massive swing of the powerful automaton's fist, the Thing fought the machine valiantly, and pummelled it through a wall of the Baxter building, the Human Torch took the offensive, and barely dodged the blast of a disintegrator, and an exhausted Mr. Fantastic engaged the powerful android, holding a defeated Johnny Storm. FF covers just don't come any more action-packed or heroic than this! The unbeatable team of penciler Jack Kirby and inker Joe Sinnott sent this spectacular Silver Age cover into a totally new dimension of thrills. Joe Sinnott, regarded by many fans as the ultimate FF inker, remarked, "I did make changes for a while, but it wasn't Jack's work then, so I started keeping closer to what Jack had penciled. I did make some changes as I went along, but I changed my approach a little. I gave his figures a slickness that superheroes should have. That genre demands a certain slickness." Most of Marveldom agreed! The art has an image area of 13" x 20" and is in Excellent condition. Jack Kirby signed the cover at the lower left. Don't miss out on this metal-crunching, ray blasting, bone-crushing Kirby and Sinnott masterwork!
Auction 815 | Lot: 3390 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $34,500.00
Mad #1 Gaines File pedigree 4/12 (EC, 1952) CGC NM/MT 9.8 Off-white to white pages. Few titles have managed to last as long as Harvey Kurtzman's brain-child, which is still going strong today. Kurtzman drew the cover to this seminal issue, Jack Davis satirized the horror genre, Wally Wood lampooned the sci-fi, John Severin skewed the westerns, and Bill Elder poked fun at the crime stories that EC published. What more could you want? Why, perhaps the most stunning specimen of this important comic! Overstreet 2004 NM- 9.2 value = $7,000. CGC census 12/04: 3 in 9.8, none higher.
Auction 815 | Lot: 1200 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $32,200.00
Alex Raymond - Flash Gordon with Jungle Jim Topper Sunday Comic Strip Original Art, dated 10-13-35 (King Features Syndicate, 1935). Jungle Jim and Kolo are rescued from a man-eating ant deathtrap and then Jim outshoots his black-hearted nemesis, Romney, in this action-packed episode. This Jungle Jim topper measures an overall 25.75" x 14", while its image area is 25.5" x 12", and the art is in Excellent condition. The lower portion of this set is the matching Flash Gordon Sunday. In this thriller, General Tahl's coup d'etat is overturned, and Flash Gordon is crowned King by Queen Azura; later, Flash pleads with Dale to believe that he does not love Azura, but rather, intends to marry Dale. Flash Gordon, Dale Arden, and Dr. Zarkov all star. The period of 1934-36 is often cited as the most desirable to IFlash Q collectors due to the large size of the art drawn during those three years, as well as Alex Raymond's lush dry-brush inking, which was influenced by the work of magazine illustrators John LaGatta and Matt Clark. The overall size of the illustration board measures 26" x 20.75", while the image area is 25.5" x 20", and the condition of the art is Excellent. Don't let this remarkable gem slip past you without a bid! (Total: 2 Original Art)
Auction 815 | Lot: 4275 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $27,600.00
Marvel Comics #1 (Timely, 1939) CGC Apparent FN+ 6.5 Extensive (P) Cream to off-white pages. The first Timely comic continues to be one of the most sought-after and elusive comic books of all. It's almost impossible to overrate the significance of the issue that introduced the Human Torch by Carl Burgos, the Sub-Mariner by Bill Everett, Angel by Paul Gustavson, Ka-Zar, and other characters to the Golden Age of comics. The cover is by pulp artist Frank R. Paul. You would have to look long and hard to find a more attractive-looking copy of the historic book than this professionally restored specimen. CGC notes, "Restoration includes: color touch, pieces added, tear seals, spine splits sealed, cover reinforced, cover and staples cleaned." Overstreet 2004 GD 2.0 value = $19,250; VG 4.0 value = $38,500; FN 6.0 value = $57,750; VF 8.0 value = $138,000.
Auction 815 | Lot: 2498 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $25,300.00
Jack Kirby and Joe Sinnott - Fantastic Four #5, page 4 Original Art (Marvel, 1962). "Heed my words! This is Doctor Doom!" Here comes the origin page of the deadliest foe ever to face Reed Richards and company, brought to you by the duo many fans consider to be the "definitive" art team on the FF -- Jack Kirby and Joe Sinnott! "Jolly" Jack Kirby pencils this mouth-watering masterpiece, enlightening the dark tale of Doom's forbidden experiments into black magic and sorcery, and the resulting injuries that blasted him into madness. Joe Sinnott cuts his teeth inking his first Fantastic Four yarn, and doesn't return again until issue #45. The art measures 12.5" x 18.5" and is in Excellent condition. This could be the absolutely all-time most stupendous origin page of a villain ever produced... bid now!
Auction 815 | Lot: 3384 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $25,300.00
Charles Schulz - Peanuts Sunday Comic Strip Original Art, dated 1-5-64 (United Feature Syndicate, 1964). If we had to assemble a "Top Ten" list of all-time great Peanuts gags, this classic would have to make the cut. In it, we see the quintessential embodiment of Lucy's dominion over Linus, and all else that she surveys, as she holds up her hand and says "These five fingers... individually they're nothing, but when I curl them together like this into a single unit, they form a weapon that is terrible to behold!" Boy -- Genghis Khan's got nothing on this crabby little gal. Schulz was at the top of his game at this period in the strip's history; his linework is smooth and seemingly effortless, his characters fully defined, and determined to make us laugh. The image area measures 22.5" x 15.25", and the artwork is in Excellent condition, with moderate overall wear and a few light stains. This is truly iconic '60s Peanuts, and it can be yours. So don't be crabby -- bid like you mean it.
Auction 815 | Lot: 4314 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $25,300.00
The Amazing Spider-Man #19 (Marvel, 1964) CGC MT 9.9 Off-white to white pages. That's not a misprint, tiger, this is a MT 9.9 copy of this Silver Age book. We look at ASM issues just about all day long, and even the really nice ones usually have one of Marvel's notorious overhangs or a shade of "Marvel chipping." Not so for this gem, which has perfect corners and edges and superb page quality. You rarely see a book this nice that's a couple of years old, never mind one from the days before mylar bags and the like. And of all issues, it's the one with the predominantly white cover! Never mind fingerprints, we don't think anyone ever even breathed on the thing. An outrageously nice book. The reason there aren't more MT copies? Well, everyone and his kid brother wanted to read and re-read yet another Stan Lee and Steve Ditko story. This one had plenty of action; Sandman and the Enforcers appear, and the Human Torch guest-stars as well. As of this writing, this is the only 9.9 that CGC has certified. Overstreet 2004 NM- 9.2 value = $625. CGC census 1/05: 1 in 9.9, none higher. From the Northern Lights Collection.
Auction 815 | Lot: 1018 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $20,700.00
Charles Schulz - Peanuts Sunday Comic Strip Original Art, dated 11-6-66 (United Features Syndicate, 1966). Since it first opened for business in March, 1959, Lucy's psychiatric booth has proven to be one of Schulz's funniest and most innovative concoctions, providing fodder for a wide variety of gags. In this classic Sunday from the mid-'60s, Charlie Brown learns the hard way (is there any other way, when Lucy is involved?) that doctor/patient confidentiality sometimes extends even to the patient. With over a decade to hone his craft, Schulz was at the top of his game during this period, rendering his expressive, iconic characters with just a few quick lines and a bold sense of composition. The gags in Peanuts were never cheap and rarely topical, giving the series a timeless quality that will endure for generations to come. This wonderful Sunday measures 24.25" x 17.5" and has been mounted to a sturdy piece of illustration board. Aside from a few light stains and the browning of the logo stat, it is in Excellent condition, and deserves to be framed and mounted on a wall for all to enjoy. The doctor is in.
Auction 815 | Lot: 4316 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $20,700.00
The Human Torch #2 (#1) (Timely, 1940) CGC VF 8.0 Cream to off-white pages. One of the most sought-after Timely keys, this comic is ranked among the 25 most valuable comic books of all by Overstreet. The main event is the first appearance of Toro, the Human Torch's sidekick who would appear at the Torch's side on many a cover and in many a story in the ensuing years. By the way, Toro wasn't an android like the Torch, but one of the first mutant superheroes! The book's cover by Alex Schomburg offers not only the fiery duo but also Timely' s other VIP of the day, the Sub-Mariner. It's interesting to note that the heroes were already taking on the Nazi menace in this Fall 1940 issue, more than a year before the U.S. would actually enter the war. The roster of interior artists includes Timely's top talents of the day: Carl Burgos, Bill Everett, Joe Simon, and Paul Reinman to name a few. CGC notes, "Very small amount of dried glue on cover and centerfold." Overstreet 2004 VF 8.0 value = $20,800. CGC census 12/04: 3 in 8.0, 2 higher.
Auction 815 | Lot: 2492 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $20,125.00
Marvel Comics #1 (Timely, 1939) CGC GD 2.0 Cream to off-white pages. When it comes to sheer significance, you can't top Marvel Comics #1, a collection of firsts unrivaled anywhere in comicdom. It was the first Timely comic to hit newsstands; of course "Marvel" would later become the name of the company as a whole. As such, this book was effectively the start of the Marvel Universe, the fascinating conglomeration of characters which has collectively sold millions of comic books and left its mark on American popular culture. There's an entire roster of characters making their first appearances here, but we'll start by mentioning the debut and origin story of the first Human Torch, one of the most important characters of Timely's run. The book also boasts the de facto first appearance of the other major Timely character, the Sub-Mariner, who's still a star in Marvel comic books today (a story with the character had been printed in the promotional comic Motion Picture Funnies Weekly, but that book was never released to the general public; Overstreet terms Marvel #1 the Sub-Mariner's first newsstand appearance). There are even more key firsts here -- take the first comic book appearance of pulp hero Ka-Zar, who may have begun as a Tarzan imitation but has starred in his own comic series more than once and guest-starred in innumerable others. Then there's the first appearance of the original Angel, which in itself would be enough to make this a key book, as he was a Timely standby throughout the Golden Age. The cover, showing the Human Torch, is by science fiction pulp illustrator Frank R. Paul. The interior material was the work of the artistic "shop" known as Funnies, Inc. the best-known artists of which are Bill Everett (who created the Sub-Mariner and drew the character's story) and Carl Burgos (who did the same for the Human Torch). Overstreet ranks this book as the third-most valuable comic book of all, and while this copy was gra
Auction 815 | Lot: 1141 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $18,400.00
Gene Colan and Jim Steranko - Daredevil #44 Cover Original Art (Marvel, 1968). Beneath Daredevil #44's powerfully symbolic cover lies a story as radically written as it was laid out. The Jester plays a joke on himself and Daredevil, too, when he makes it appear as if DD killed Jonathan Powers, in the thriller "I, Murderer!" written by Stan Lee. Gene Colan demonstrates that he was as far out on the artistic edge as any of the younger innovators that would enter the industry in the years following 1968. Exploiting the dramatic contrast of light and dark, the action between Daredevil and the Jester is played out against a sky filled with a strikingly authentic depiction of the New York skyline. Colan creates a real sense of mass and weight, which he fleshes out with structural depth. Jim Steranko's superb inks made this Silver Ager smoke! The art has an image area of 10" x 15". There is some nominal white-out usage and slight staining outside of the image area, otherwise this first-class piece is in Excellent condition. Includes the original title logo and other type paste-ups.
Auction 815 | Lot: 3148 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $18,400.00
John Romita Sr. - Spider-Man Aurora Comic Scenes Instruction Booklet Cover and Story Original Art, Group of 6 (Aurora Plastics Co., 1974). Hold on to your spider-signals, True Believers -- this Bronze Age blockbuster includes the cover art and five-page yarn recounting Spider-Man and Kraven the Hunter's epic battle, as immortalized in the famed Aurora Model Kit. John Romita Sr.'s art is at its friendly neighborhood best, as Spidey battles Kraven and his animal horde, a prowling panther and two angry apes; the Hunter has stolen ancient tapestries that contain an imbedded secret in their design, and Spidey soon hands Kraven a humiliating defeat. The art was drawn on Marvel comic book art paper, the image area of each page is 10" x 15", and the art is in Excellent condition. Hints of John's blue penciling can be seen beneath his unparalleled inks. The lot also includes a 10" x 15" photostat of the cover, and model scene, and it includes the logo and other type paste-ups. A Bronze Age John Romita Sr. cover, five page Spider-Man masterwork, with an Aurora model kit tie in? -- face it tiger, it's a triple-collectible! Hang loose, and set your web-shooters on bid -- it's one of Jazzy Johnny's best! (Total: 7 items)
Auction 815 | Lot: 4297 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $17,825.00
The Amazing Spider-Man #3 (Marvel, 1963) CGC NM 9.4 Off-white pages. Doctor Octopus has certainly become a household name in the last year or so. Thanks to "Spider-Man 2," everybody knows the guy. And this is the villain's first appearance and origin. There's a first for Spider-Man here as well, as this is the character's first book-length story. Also of note is an appearance by the Human Torch. The story was the work of that team supreme, writer Stan Lee and artist Steve Ditko. There aren't many better specimens of this key book; in fact, a mere two copies have been certified with a higher grade by CGC to date. Overstreet 2004 NM- 9.2 value = $4,200. CGC census 1/05: 6 in 9.4, 2 higher. From the Northern Lights Collection.
Auction 815 | Lot: 1007 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $17,250.00
Dave Cockrum - Giant-Size X-Men #1, page 26 Original Art (Marvel, 1975). Dave Cockrum revolutionized the X-Men and Marvel comics when he co-created a new breed of merry mutants for Giant-Size X-Men. The new characters sparked interest in the title, an interest that swelled to enormous heights of popularity and proved to be a major factor in the success of the two recent blockbuster movies. Old-guard member Cyclops is joined on this page by a boisterous new line-up, including Sunfire, Nightcrawler, Banshee, Thunderbird, and Storm. The Stratojet is also showcased in three panels. As if that weren't spectacular enough, the back side of this page features a fully penciled and inked nude "good girl" pin-up of Princess Ororo, also known as Storm! The image area of the page measures 10" x 15", and the art is in Excellent condition. Get your bids in on this gem -- it's almost more than any mere mortal Marvelite can bear!
Auction 815 | Lot: 3142 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $17,250.00
All-Flash #1 Recil Macon pedigree (DC, 1941) CGC VF/NM 9.0 Off-white pages. Yes, the Flash was already seen in every issue of Flash Comics, but he had to share the book with other heroes; this title was all Flash, 64 pages of him in fact. And anyone who was new to the character got a refresher in this issue on how Jay Garrick got his powers. The book has an E. E. Hibbard cover and interior art, with scripts by Gardner Fox (the writer who's most identified with our hero, and for that matter with the Silver Age Flash as well). There's even a brief biographical feature on Hibbard and Fox inside the mag. This key comic is ranked among the fifty most valuable Golden Age comic books by Overstreet. Our copy is from the well-known pedigree collection of Texas collector Recil Macon. Overstreet 2004 VF/NM 9.0 value = $16,157; NM- 9.2 value = $22,000. CGC census 1/05: 1 in 9.0, 2 higher. From the Northern Lights Collection.
Auction 815 | Lot: 1004 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $16,100.00
Detective Comics #38 Larson pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC FN- 5.5 Off-white pages. One of the most influential books of the Golden Age, this issue is ranked at number 15 on Overstreet's list of the most valuable comic books. The reason for the fuss is that this issue introduced Robin the Boy Wonder, the most famous sidekick of all. Batman's creators hoped that giving Batman a partner would help sales, and it's said that sales nearly doubled as a result, ushering in a kid sidekick craze throughout comics. This issue's art is by Bob Kane and Jerry Robinson, and Batman and Robin's repartee is courtesy of scripter Bill Finger. This particular copy came from the renowned Lamont Larson collection, known for its glossy covers and high page quality. Overstreet 2004 FN 6.0 value = $10,314. CGC census 12/04: 1 in 5.5, 7 higher. From the Northern Lights Collection.
Auction 815 | Lot: 1114 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $16,100.00
Neal Adams - Strange Adventures #211 Cover Original Art (DC, 1968). This tense confrontation scene comes from the very heart of the original Deadman run in Strange Adventures. The art paper measures 16.5" x 11.5", with an image area of 10" x 15". The condition of the art is Excellent. The title logo and other type elements are replacements and have been carefully color-matched to the art paper, adding to the eye-appeal of the cover. The cover has a paste-on art correction that was done by Neal Adams to eliminate a foreground figure's hand that was originally drawn along the left border's edge. This correction area is original art, not a stat. It is applied with such craftsmanship that a very close inspection is needed to even detect it. A rogues' gallery of Deadman's nefarious circus peers is portrayed crouching behind him. While these figures were obscured by the coloring scheme used in the printed comic book cover, here they are seen in vivid detail. Neal Adams' fine-lined inking style was at its most masterful throughout this era.
Auction 815 | Lot: 3023 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $16,100.00
Chesley K. Bonestell - "Double Star" Painting Original Art (undated). Born in San Francisco, Chesley Bonestell was a painter, printmaker, and designer, perhaps most celebrated for his space subjects. Chesley studied at the Mark Hopkins Institute and his strong interest in astronomy soon informed his artwork. Chesley also studied architecture at Columbia University, and was hired by Willis Polk in Berkeley, serving as their chief designer. He worked for Hollywood studios as a matte artist from 1938 to the 1950s and did backgrounds and special effects for outer-space themed movies. His work is in the permanent collections of the Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama, and the Adler Planetarium in Chicago. Vincent DiFate, in his SF art monograph, Infinite Worlds has written, "A reluctant participant in SF, his paintings were nonetheless essential in validating the use of astronomical art as an alternative to the garish and meretricious pulp covers that once dominated the magazine stands. His works stand with J. Allen St. John, Frank R. Paul and Richard M. Powers as consequential in molding the look of modern science fiction illustration." This oil on board painting has an image area of 14.75" x 19.25", and is in Excellent condition. This image of a binary star system was identified as the RW Persei system and appeared on page 283 of the Time-Life book, The World We Live In.From the collection of Richard and Wendy Pini. Richard says: "When I worked at the planetarium in Boston's Museum of Science, there were a number of Bonestell pieces that had once been on display, but were sadly being neglected and stored badly. When I left my job there, the director (who knew of my science fiction leanings) asked if I would like either of these paintings as a parting gift. Screwing up my courage, I asked if I could have both. Both paintings appear in "The World We Live In," and the "Double Star" also appeared as the cover to the December 1954 issue of Life magazine."</
Auction 815 | Lot: 4022 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $16,100.00
Charles Schulz - Peanuts Sunday Comic Strip Original Art, dated 5-19-74 (United Features Syndicate, 1974). It's all a matter of organization: Linus outlines a plan by which Lucy, "the most crabby person the world has ever known," could spend a greater part of her year as a regular, pleasant human being, rather than be her usual cranky self. Lucy reacts to this with her usual good grace: POW! The Lucy/Linus sister/brother dynamic was one of the most amusing in the Peanuts pantheon, and you could always count on Luce to deliver a punch when anything wasn't going her way. Also note that this is one of those strips (there were actually quite a few like this) where Linus's supposedly indispensable security blanket is nowhere to be seen. The artwork is in Excellent condition, with some browning of the logo stat and light overall wear; the image area measures 22.5" x 15.25".
Auction 815 | Lot: 4317 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $16,100.00
Suspense Comics #3 (Continental Magazines, 1944) CGC FN+ 6.5 Off-white pages. Few books inspire passion in collectors like Suspense #3. Ever since Ernie Gerber featured this cover in his Photo-Journal, it has consistently been one of the most in-demand books in the hobby. It's one of the scarcer ones as well -- while we're pleased when we see a Gerber "6" or "7," and consider ourselves privileged indeed to get our mitts on an "8," this one's a Gerber "9". Overstreet also notes the comic's rarity, calling it "scarce." Copies of this comic that do come to market always draw significant attention. As if it weren't difficult enough to find any copy of the book, there's the fact that most of the ones that do exist are incomplete, as the four pages in the center are very often missing -- not so with this copy, which is complete and unrestored. As for the cover art, just look at it and you will instantly know why this book attracts attention. It's the work of the great Alex Schomburg. In case you needed any more reasons to bid, the book also has L. B. Cole interior art. With all of the above, it's no wonder the book is ranked among the 100 most valuable Golden Age books by Overstreet. CGC notes, "Very small piece of tape on centerfold at staple." Overstreet 2004 FN 6.0 value = $5,100; VF 8.0 value = $10,200. CGC census 12/04: 1 in 6.5, 1 higher. From the Northern Lights Collection.
Auction 815 | Lot: 1149 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $14,950.00
Jack Kirby and Dick Ayers - Avengers #1, page 14 Original Art (Marvel,1963). Face Front, True Believers! From the historic first issue of the Avengers comes this spectacular page spotlighting the famous characters that have made Marvel Comics a world-wide legend. Iron Man mixes it up with the Incredible Hulk, and comes away with a busted battery for his troubles; meanwhile the Mighty Thor seeks council with his father, the majestic Odin. Jack Kirby and Dick Ayers teamed to create the artistic template for all the Marvel milestones to follow -- their art sparked a revolution in comic book art. The image area of the page is 12.5" x 18.5", and the art is in Excellent condition. Jack Kirby has signed the page at the lower left. Once this fabulous page is won, it is sure to be a treasured showpiece for the lucky collector, and may not resurface for decades, if ever -- so bid accordingly!
Auction 815 | Lot: 3391 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $14,950.00
John Romita Sr. - The Amazing Spider-Man #166 Cover Original Art (Marvel, 1977). 'Tis the season to be brawling! Writer Len Wein ushers in the yuletide season with a hellacious holiday hoedown between the Wall-Crawler, and two of his reptilian rivals, the Lizard and Stegron. Spider-Man is caught in the middle of "The War of the Reptile-Men!" John Romita Sr. is at the top of his game, with his nice clean action and stunning line work. The image area measures 9.75" x 15". Includes the original title and indicia paste-ups. Some slight staining, otherwise this work is in Excellent condition. If the Lizard and Stegron don't get this Bronze Age bounty, then maybe you will...bid now!
Auction 815 | Lot: 4300 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $14,950.00
Walt Kelly - Walt Disney's Comics and Stories #123 Cover Original (Dell, 1950). Leave it to Donald Duck to turn a simple everyday activity like ironing into a marathon of misfortune! Walt Kelly graces us with his scintillating presence on this cover for Walt Disney's Comics and Stories #123, as Donald has a little trouble with a home appliance. In the mid-1930s Kelly moved to Hollywood and became an animator for Walt Disney Studios, working among others on "Dumbo," "Snow White," "The Reluctant Dragon," and "Fantasia," which proved to be quite useful in his later Disney work. The art measures 13" x 17.75" and has an 11" x 16" image area. There is some surface discoloration and light staining outside of the image area, otherwise this work is in Very Good condition. The title type and logo header is recent replacement art.
Auction 815 | Lot: 3351 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $14,375.00
Batman #1 (DC, 1940) CGC Apparent VF 8.0 Extensive (P) Off-white pages. This premiere issue is the sixth most valuable comic book of all according to Overstreet; while Batman already had a few stories in Detective Comics under his belt, a couple of first appearances here make for a significant addition to the Batman mythos, as both the Joker and Catwoman made their debuts here. The Joker was quite sinister from the very start, with murders fully within his repertoire; he was reportedly only intended as a one-issue character -- luckily Batman's creators were persuaded to keep him alive at the story's end. As for the Catwoman, she was called the Cat here, but her unique personality was already in place, as was a bit of romantic tension between her and Batman. The Caped Crusader even lets her escape at the end! Also of note are a retelling of Batman's origin and a classic (and much-imitated) cover by Bob Kane and Jerry Robinson. This professionally restored copy is certainly easy on the eyes -- it's a book any collector would be proud to own. CGC notes, "Restoration includes: color touch, pieces added, tear seals, cover cleaned, interior lightened, reinforced." Overstreet 2004 GD 2.0 value = $6,944; VG 4.0 value = $13,888; FN 6.0 value =$20,832; VF 8.0 value = $49,200. From the Northern Lights Collection.
Auction 815 | Lot: 1031 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $13,800.00
Showcase #4 The Flash (DC, 1956) CGC VF 8.0 Off-white pages. This is simply one of the most significant comic books ever. In the mid-1950s, the comic industry was struggling, and though superheroes had gone out of fashion, DC decided to bring one hero back for a tryout issue. The new Flash, Barry Allen, made his first appearance here, the comic was a hit, and after a couple more Showcase appearances, the Flash received his own title. Showcase #4 is generally considered to be the start of the Silver Age. The story, written by Bob Kanigher and drawn by Carmine Infantino and Joe Kubert, also featured the first appearance of Barry's girlfriend Iris West, and of course detailed the origin of the new Flash's powers. It's a key book by any standard. Overstreet 2004 VF 8.0 value = $13,200. CGC census 12/04: 6 in 8.0, 4 higher. From the Northern Lights Collection.
Auction 815 | Lot: 1146 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $13,800.00
Wonder Woman #1 (DC, 1942) CGC VF- 7.5 Off-white pages. Wonder Woman charges onto the scene in the first issue of her own comic, starting off a four-decade run. Household-name status was not far behind! The Amazon's creator, William Moulton Marston, didn't fit the profile of the typical comic book writer, and his unorthodox approach gave these stories an originality that's still striking today. H. G. Peter's art established the signature look of Wonder Woman's early years. As befits a #1 issue, the heroine's origin story is retold and expanded upon. Overstreet 2004 VF 8.0 value = $15,950. CGC census 1/05: 3 in 7.5, 6 higher. From the Northern Lights Collection.
Auction 815 | Lot: 1158 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $12,650.00
Steve Ditko - Amazing Spider-Man #23, page 10 Original Art (Marvel, 1963). No one, but no one, could choreograph a superhero fist-fight ballet quite like Steve Ditko, and the ultimate street fighter was Sturdy Steve's Amazing Spider-Man! Spidey gets quite a workout when he opens a can of whup-butt on a crew of wise-guys, in "The Goblin and the Gangsters!" That's right, True Believer, the Green Goblin is on the scene, lurking just outside a window in panel two, and he bides his time to launch a counter-attack. This beautiful page is near-perfect, with only a small lettering white-out correction in panel three; this is Ditko inking at its finest! Spider-Man appears in six panels, and puts on an awesome display of his powers, shooting web-fluid, using spider-strength and speed, and sticking to the ceiling; ol' Web-head even gets in a few wise-cracks! The image area of the page measures 12.5" x 18.5", and the art is in Excellent condition. Hang loose heroes, and don't forget to bid on this mighty Marvel masterwork!
Auction 815 | Lot: 3194 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $12,650.00
Ed Valigursky - "Solar Lottery" Ace D-103 Paperback Cover Original Art (Ace, 1955). Ed Valigursky's spectacular cover painting announced Philip Dick's first published novel, Solar Lottery, which proved to be a pivotal work in the field of science fiction, both in its expression of a scientific world gone awry, and its impact on the career of the young writer. The yarn presented a culture based upon Werner Heisenberg's ideas of randomness and John von Neumann's Game Theory, with such logical developments as public office by lottery and formal overt assassination. The novel has two major plot threads, one of intricately deadly and suspenseful palace politics, and another of an ambitious effort to rediscover our sun's once-glimpsed tenth planet. A cover caption about the deadly battle reads: "First Prize Was The Earth Itself!" After attending the American Academy of Art in Chicago and Art Institute of Pittsburgh, Ed Valigursky became a staff artist at Ziff-Davis, working on their Amazing and Fantastic Adventures pulps. Later, his work appeared in Galaxy, and Valigursky also briefly served as the art director of If, until 1955. Vincent DiFate has noted, "Valigursky was among the first artists to use the paint mannerisms of architectural and automotive illustration in his depictions of SF subjects." The cover was painted with acrylic on board, and has an image area of approximately 12" x 15.75", and is in Excellent condition. Don't miss out on your chance to win this historic and wonderful work of art!
Auction 815 | Lot: 4393 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $12,650.00
Green Lantern #1 (DC, 1941) CGC FN/VF 7.0 Off-white to white pages. The premiere issue of Green Lantern's solo title is ranked by Overstreet as one of the twenty most valuable comic books of all. The hero had more than earned his own book after successful appearances in All-American Comics, and this issue started a long and successful run -- except for taking the 1950s off along with most every other superhero, Green Lantern has been in near-continuous publication from the 1940s through the present day. The origin of Alan Scott, the Golden Age bearer of the ring, is retold in this issue, which features a cover by Howard Purcell and interior art by GL's creator Martin Nodell. Gerber's Photo-Journal gives this issue its "scarce" rating, estimating that less than 50 copies exist. Overstreet 2004 FN 6.0 value = $8,823; VF 8.0 value = $23,500. CGC census 12/04: 5 in 7.0, 7 higher. From the Northern Lights Collection.
Auction 815 | Lot: 1130 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $12,075.00
Detective Comics #33 (DC, 1939) CGC FN- 5.5 Light tan to off-white pages. This issue is the twelfth most valuable comic book of all according to Overstreet. In the 2004 Guide's ranking it even surpassed Detective #1, and it's now the second most-valuable issue of the title, ranking behind only the hallowed #27. The reason for all the fuss comes in the first two pages of the book: the first-ever telling of Batman's origin. A look at the cover is enough to tell you how early in Batman's career this is: he's wearing a gun holster on the cover and in several panels of the story. The cover and art are by the Caped Crusader's creator Bob Kane, reportedly with an inking assist by Sheldon Moldoff. The backup features include the usual complement of detective tales, including Speed Saunders (with Fred Guardineer art), Larry Steele, Slam Bradley, and the Spy. When copies of this issue do turn up, they usually bear a purple label, so we were particularly pleased to see that this one's an unrestored book. Only four unrestored copies of this issue have been certified with higher grades by CGC to date. CGC notes, "Store stamp on 8th, 22nd and 29th page." Overstreet 2004 FN 6.0 value = $11,250. CGC census 12/04: 1 in 5.5, 4 higher. From the Northern Lights Collection.
Auction 815 | Lot: 1109 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $11,500.00
Crime Patrol #15 Gaines File pedigree (EC, 1950) CGC NM+ 9.6 Off-white to white pages. A very significant book in EC history, this issue (while technically a pre-Trend title) has the first stirrings of EC's New Trend. The historic tale is called "Return From The Grave!" and it features the first appearance of the Crypt Keeper and our first glimpse of the Crypt of Terror. Our nightmares would never be the same! That first horror story, an experiment on EC's part, was written and drawn by Al Feldstein; the book also has Johnny Craig art as well as a Craig cover. Note that while CGC has certified this book as a Gaines File copy, no certificate accompanies this lot. Overstreet 2004 NM- 9.2 value = $3,500. CGC census 1/05: 3 in 9.6, 1 higher.
Auction 815 | Lot: 1182 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $11,500.00
Jack Kirby and Dick Ayers - Fantastic Four #17, page 1 Original Art (Marvel, 1963).
Auction 815 | Lot: 3386 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $11,500.00
Chesley K. Bonestell - "Evolution of Earth" Painting Original Art (Time -Life, 1955). Chesley Bonestell's sharply-focused cosmic tableau portrays the movement of planet Earth through space-time, as it is finally immersed within a spiral galaxy. This illustration was printed on page five of the Time-Life book, The World We Live In. Chesley worked as a designer and renderer for architects and participated in the development of such icons as the Chrysler Building, and the Golden Gate Bridge, but when a construction lull hit America in 1938, he turned his efforts to creating matte paintings for the movies, and worked on such classics as "Destination Moon", and "War of the Worlds." His first astronomical paintings were published in 1944, and few artists since have matched his peerless talent for creating scenes evocative of the sublime, enigmatic beauty of outer space. This painting has an image area of 14.5" x 18.75", and is in Excellent condition. From the collection of Richard and Wendy Pini. Richard says: "Speaking of Chesley Bonestell, his astronomical images captured me at a very early age, when I would read the Life (now Time-Life) book "The World We Live In." The vistas of earth and other planets as seen from impossible (then) angles, the scenes of times long past or of star systems light-years distant - all were totally captivating."
Auction 815 | Lot: 4021 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $11,500.00
Detective Comics #29 (DC, 1939) CGC VG/FN 5.0 Off-white to white pages. Batman appeared on a comic book cover for only the second time here, with the impressive visuals courtesy of Bob Kane. And while the Caped Crusader had faced forgettable foes up to this point, he met his first "name" villain here in the person of Dr. Death. While Batman had earned top billing, he hadn't yet taken over the whole comic -- also appearing in this issue were the Crimson Avenger (with Jim Chambers art), Speed Saunders (with Fred Guardineer art), and Slam Bradley (in a story written by Jerry Siegel and drawn by Joe Shuster). Only three unrestored copies of this book have been certified with higher grades by CGC to date. CGC notes, "small amount of dried glue on spine of cover." Note that a small plastic stabilizing peg is loose inside the CGC holder, not affecting the integrity of the holder or the comic itself. Overstreet 2004 VG 4.0 value = $5,636; FN 6.0 value = $8,445. CGC census 12/04: 1 in 5.0, 3 higher. From the Northern Lights Collection.
Auction 815 | Lot: 1106 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $10,925.00
Bill Everett - Daredevil #1 page 20 Original Art (Marvel, 1963). A Silver Age legend was born when Matt Murdock first donned his costume to wreak justice on the murderous Fixer and his gang. The four-color printing process of the sixties could not do justice to the lushness of Bill Everett's inking -- only a careful study of the original art will reveal the stunning beauty of Everett's art. This sensational page showcases Daredevil in costume, and also features the Man Without Fear in his "civilian" identity of Matt Murdock, as he uses his heightened senses to track the Fixer through the crowded Manhattan streets, teaming with gorgeous "good girls!" -- in short, this page has it all! The image area of the page measures approximately 12.5" x 18.5", and aside from a bit of white-out in the final panel used for an art correction, the art is in Excellent condition. Hang loose, and don't miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime magnificent Marvel masterpiece!
Auction 815 | Lot: 3221 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $10,350.00

Make Offer to Owner
$250,000 or more
George Herriman - Krazy Kat Sunday Comic Strip Original Art (King Features Syndicate,1918)....
Auction 815 | Lot: 3311 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $9,200.00
The Amazing Spider-Man #129 (Marvel, 1974) CGC NM/MT 9.8 White pages. The Punisher made his first appearance in this issue, one of the most sought-after Bronze Age Marvels. The new character went on to star in his own comic, and of course in a major motion picture as well! From his very first story (written by Gerry Conway), the Punisher was not quite a hero, yet not quite a villain. But also making his first appearance was a guy who was 100% pure villain, the Jackal, from whom much more would be heard in the ensuing issues. The cover is by Gil Kane, the interior art by Ross Andru. Our offering is one of only three 9.8 copies that CGC has certified to date, and no copy to be slabbed has received a higher grade. Overstreet 2004 NM- 9.2 value = $400.
Auction 815 | Lot: 2386 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $9,200.00
Crypt of Terror #18 Gaines File pedigree 1/10 (EC, 1950) CGC NM/MT 9.8 Off-white to white pages. Cover artist Johnny Craig was 24 years old when he created this cover, typically clean, understated, and oh so creepy. Craig was already an EC veteran of three years here, and had drawn every cover of this series since the title had changed to Crime Patrol with issue #7. Interior art comes from Craig, Wood, Feldstein, and Kurtzman. This is an absolutely brilliant example with the highest grade CGC has awarded to a copy of issue #18. It is also the #1 Gaines File copy as ranked by Bob Overstreet, quite probably making it the finest copy in existence! Overstreet 2004 NM- 9.2 value = $2,200. CGC census 12/04: 3 in 9.8, none higher.
Auction 815 | Lot: 1191 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $8,912.50
The Amazing Spider-Man #6 (Marvel, 1963) CGC NM 9.4 Off-white pages. This beautiful copy features the first appearance of one of Spider-Man's most interesting villains. The Lizard is an ironic nemesis for Spider-Man, as Dr. Curt Conners' angst at the ever-present possibility of his evil alter-ego surfacing to threaten his wife and son rivals that of Peter Parker's. The early issue of The Amazing Spider-Man by Stan Lee and Steve Ditko is considered by many to be unmatched. This is a great chance to own a sharp, bright copy of this classic Silver Age comic. Overstreet 2004 NM- 9.2 value = $2,700. CGC census 1/05: 8 in 9.4, 6 higher. From the Northern Lights Collection.
Auction 815 | Lot: 1010 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $8,625.00
Famous Funnies: Carnival of Comics #nn (Eastern Color, 1933) CGC VF/NM 9.0 Off-white pages. Considered the second comic book ever, this Platinum Age oldster shows up more often than you might think, but not in this grade. Our offering is currently tied with one other copy atop CGC's census. A unique wraparound cover adds to the appeal of this historic book that Gerber's Photo-Journal Guide to Comic Books calls "rare". Overstreet 2004 VF/NM 9.0 value = $8,740; NM- 9.2 value = $12,000. CGC census 1/05: 2 in 9.0; none higher. From the Northern Lights Collection.
Auction 815 | Lot: 1127 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $8,625.00
Robert Crumb - Stripper Illustration Original Art (1994). The two volumes of Robert Crumb's Art and Beauty Magazine work as a statement against the academic apologetics that have surrounded him since Terry Zwigoff's documentary in 1994 and the comix underground that canonized him. Robert Crumb's work here has a softness, but this master craftsman's bitterness and eroticism is still intact. His A&B Magazine illustrations serve to absorb and mock the critical discourses that had formerly imprisoned him, and in that way they are a challenge worth discovering. Perched on top of a striped chair, Crumb's half clad harlot, encased in sheer nylons, looks longingly at the viewer. A memorable merging of art and sex with an image area of 8.75" x 11.75" and in Excellent condition.
Auction 815 | Lot: 4440 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $8,625.00
The Amazing Spider-Man #8 (Marvel, 1964) CGC NM+ 9.6 Off-white to white pages. We give you Flash Thompson: football star, adored by the girls, Big Man On Campus. Didn'tcha hate him? The moment fans had waited eight issues for came in #8, as Peter Parker actually had a boxing match with the big bully (unfortunately, a robot attack interrupted matters). The art on the lead story is by Steve Ditko, who also drew the cover. The backup feature guest-stars the Fantastic Four, and offers an artistic team we really love: Ditko inking Jack Kirby! Surprisingly, Spidey shows amorous inclinations in the tale -- he tries to hit on the Human Torch's girlfriend Dorrie, and even makes a web-valentine for the Invisible Girl (who was still single at the time, we hasten to add). Only two copies of this issue have been certified with a higher grade by CGC to date. Overstreet 2004 NM- 9.2 value = $1,750. CGC census 12/04: 6 in 9.6, 2 higher. From the Northern Lights Collection.
Auction 815 | Lot: 1011 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $8,050.00
Flash Comics #1 (DC, 1940) CGC VG- 3.5 Off-white to white pages. Both Flash and Hawkman made their first appearances in this book. The origin stories of both Flash and Hawkman are in this book. So we think you'll agree that this is a significant comic. The Sheldon Moldoff cover is an image that every comics fan recognizes, and fans loved both the cover and the story, one of the more believable origin tales in all of comics (when Jay Garrick gets his speedster powers, he reacts as a real college kid would -- the first thing he does is become a football star and try to impress girls). Incidentally, this issue also has a couple of other notable first appearances beyond the "big two." For one, Shiera Sanders appears; she wouldn't become Hawkgirl until later, but she plays a key role in Hawkman's origin story here. Also debuting is the fondly remembered Johnny Thunder. Granted, he's no Flash, he's no Hawkman... frankly, he's a blundering doofus. But the super power he can't control (a thunderbolt activated by the words "say you") made for much comic relief, and his well-meaning nature won him a lot of fans. Johnny would join Flash in the Justice Society before long. With so many impressive introductions, it's no wonder that Overstreet ranks this issue among the top ten most valuable comic books of all. CGC notes, "Date stamp on 30 pages and interior back cover." Overstreet 2004 VG 4.0 value = $12,400. CGC census 12/04: 2 in 3.5, 5 higher. From the Northern Lights Collection.
Auction 815 | Lot: 1129 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $8,050.00

Make Offer to Owner
$76,125 or more
Flash Comics #7 (DC, 1940) CGC VF/NM 9.0 Off-white to white pages. Though Hawkman first appeared in issue #1 of this title, this was only his second cover appearance, and the first time he was drawn on a cover by Sheldon Moldoff, the Golden Age Hawkman's most important artist. Moldoff was a key contributor to this issue, also drawing Hawkman's interior story as well as the Cliff Cornwall feature. Other features include the Flash (drawn by E E Hibbard) and "King" Standish (by Harry Lampert), as well as everyone's favorite thunderous blunderbuss, Johnny Thunder. Overstreet 2004 VF/NM 9.0 value = $4,669; NM- 9.2 value = $6,300. CGC census 12/04: 2 in 9.0, none higher.
Auction 815 | Lot: 2210 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $8,050.00
Charles Schulz - Peanuts Daily Comic Strip Original Art, dated 11-25-60 (King Feature Syndicate, 1960). Shermy entered into the Peanuts comic early on with the first dialogue ever spoken in the strip: "Well! Here comes ol' Charlie Brown ... good ol' Charlie Brown ... Yes, sir! ... good ol' Charlie Brown ... how I hate him!" In this daily from November 25, 1960, Shermy opens his big mouth once again, much to the chagrin of Lucy, who is almost left speechless.... almost. This tremendous offering is beautifully done, it's classic Charles Schulz, drawn during a pinnacle period of the strip. The art measures 27" x 5.5" and is in Excellent condition.
Auction 815 | Lot: 4315 | Feb 10, 2005

Sold For: $8,050.00

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