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Marvel Comics #1 (Timely, 1939) CGC VF/NM 9.0 Cream to off-white pages. Have a look at the best of the best -- the highest grade yet assigned for the most sought-after Marvel comic book. For many years, Marvel Comics #1 was listed as the most valuable comic book by Overstreet, and while it has since ceded that spot to Action Comics #1, for the Marvel fan there's no topping this issue here. Certainly no comic book can claim two first appearances as significant as those of the Human Torch and the Sub-Mariner, who both made their debuts here (the latter had been used in a promotional comic previously, but hadn't appeared in a newsstand publication until this issue). And that made this comic the start of the Marvel Universe, a set of characters that left its mark on American popular culture, selling millions of comic books and starring in TV shows, movies, and more. The publisher that produced the issue used many different company names over the years and is usually referred to as Timely, but it's only fitting that when the publisher finally had one official name years later, it took its name from this very comic. And the fact that both of the issue's stars were more rebellious anti-heroes than do-gooder types set this comic apart and would characterize Marvel in years to come. The range of characters here includes other familiar names besides the Torch and Sub-Mariner. For one, there's the first comic book appearance of pulp hero Ka-Zar, who would go on to star in several comic series of his own in later years and was a fixture of the Marvel Universe in the Silver Age and beyond. For another, there's the first appearance of the original Angel. 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 in this issue) and Carl Burgos (who
Auction 818 | Lot: 2011 | Oct 15, 2005

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More Fun Comics #53 Mile High pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC NM+ 9.6 White pages. This issue, the second appearance of the Spectre, is currently #23 in Overstreet's ranking of the most valuable comic books, and the high ranking has to do with the hero's presence as well as the scarcity of the book -- it's a Gerber "8." The Spectre appears in costume on the bondage cover and again at the end of the story, both of which were drawn by Bernard Baily. Only two copies of this issue have been graded above VF as of this writing, and while the Rockford pedigree copy tied this one for the highest grade yet assigned, that one's respectable page quality (cream to off-white) can't match the white pages of this Edgar Church copy. Once again, the Mile High copy stands as the best around -- don't let it pass you by! Overstreet 2005 NM- 9.2 value = $46,000. CGC census 8/05: 2 in 9.6, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2163 | Oct 15, 2005

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Captain America Comics #1 Windy City pedigree (Timely, 1941) CGC VF+ 8.5 Cream to off-white pages. The only thing nicer than seeing the 8.5 on the slab of this key book was seeing the blue "universal" label signifying an unrestored copy! That's because this is one of the most frequently restored comic issues around, with many of the nicest copies (the Mile High copy, for one) bearing purple labels. A mere three unrestored copies of the issue have been certified with higher grades than this gem. This premiere issue is currently #6 in Overstreet's ranking of the most valuable comic books. It's the origin and first appearance of Captain America, written and drawn by the immortal duo of Joe Simon and Jack Kirby, and graced by one of the most famous and influential comic book covers of all. It also has the first appearances of Cap's sidekick Bucky and the villainous Red Skull. This particular copy has an interesting story behind it: the Windy City collection was assembled by a mailman who liked collecting #1 issues. He amassed a large collection indeed, extending from Famous Funnies #1 (1934) through the early 1960s. While the collection was assembled in Pennsylvania, it was Chicago dealer Gary Colabuono who introduced the books to the market, thus the "Windy City" moniker. The Captain America Comics #1 stands as one of the real gems of the Windy City hoard -- here's your chance to make it yours! Overstreet 2005 VF 8.0 value = $50,000; VF/NM 9.0 value = $95,000. CGC census 9/05: 1 in 8.5, 3 higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2002 | Oct 15, 2005

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Motion Picture Funnies Weekly #1 Pay Copy (First Funnies, Inc., 1939) CGC VF/NM 9.0 Cream to off-white pages. This is one of the most famous single copies of a comic book in existence. And here's the most surprising thing about it when you see it up close: you've got to marvel at what a great-looking copy it is! Give our scan a look and you will agree that the issue has earned its VF/NM grade -- the fresh cover colors stack up well even against comics from the famous pedigree collections. Now, terms like "holy grail" are used for collectibles quite a bit, but we feel that nobody could dispute that the Motion Picture Funnies Pay Copy has that status. Its significance and uniqueness make it so. And the reason it is so hotly sought-after is that it has the very first printed appearance of the Sub-Mariner. The comic was never released to newsstands -- it was created as a promotional item by the Lloyd Jacquet studio (or "shop") of artists also known as Funnies Inc. It was intended to be a giveaway to be distributed weekly at movie theatres (as demonstrated by the back-cover ad which elaborates on the concept). The Sub-Mariner story even has a box on the last page saying "continued next week," but the concept did not catch on, and no second issue was printed. In fact, the very existence of this comic book was not known to comic fandom until the 1970s. As it stands today, only eight copies of the issue are known to exist. And the most desirable one of the bunch is the Funnies Inc. "pay copy," the office copy in which the amounts paid to the creators of the issue were noted in longhand. The copy came to light as part of Jacquet's estate and has been a storied collectible ever since. It's that Sub-Mariner connection that accounts for the great historical significance of this comic milestone. While this is not a Timely/Marvel publication, we have chosen to include it in the Timely section of this catalog because of the historical significance of the Sub-Mariner in the hist
Auction 818 | Lot: 2020 | Oct 15, 2005

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Superman Comics #nn Ashcan (DC, 1939) CGC VF/NM 9.0 Off-white pages. Here's a Superman item that's harder to find than Action Comics #1, or any other published Superman comic for that matter! It's DC's ashcan for its planned Superman title (an ashcan is a mock-up of a comic, produced by hand in very small quantities, for purposes of securing a copyright for a title and/or a logo). Since the danger of Superman rip-offs was very much warranted in 1939, DC's urgency in wanting to secure rights to the title is understandable! There are only two known copies of this ashcan, and both were purchased from Sol Harrison, who became president of DC Comics; this is the higher-graded of the two, we might add. As is typical for ashcans, this one features re-used art -- it's the cover art from Action Comics #7 (by Joe Shuster) and part of the interior of Action Comics #8. That makes this the first time that the now ultra-famous Superman logo appeared on a cover! And that's quite significant, since this is undoubtedly the most famous logo in comics. This item was bound, trimmed, and stapled by hand (and of course never intended to be a collectible) so the fact that there's a VF/NM copy in existence is amazing stuff. Note that if our back-cover scan appears dark, it's because the CGC holder has a couple of extra layers of reinforcing plastic behind the comic, no doubt to make up for this ashcan's having a much lower page count than a standard comic book. Ashcans are not listed in Overstreet. CGC census 7/05: 1 in 9.0, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2233 | Oct 15, 2005

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Military Comics #1 Mile High pedigree (Quality, 1941) CGC NM 9.4 White pages. This issue features the origin and first appearance of one of the great heroes of the early days of comics, Blackhawk! That hero (and his supporting cast which debuted in later issues) endured all the way into the 1980s in various incarnations, being published by DC after Quality's demise. Will Eisner, who was reportedly a co-creator of the team, drew the cover. Inside the comic (which is divided into "Army Section" and "Navy Section"), Blackhawk is drawn by Chuck Cuidera. The other artists include Jack Cole, Fred Guardineer, and Klaus Nordling. Cole's feature, called "Death Patrol," is worthy of note, as it featured a "Dirty Dozen"-like concept decades before that movie was released. The group was aptly named, as one of its members died in every story! This Mile High copy is the only copy of the issue certified with a grade above VF/NM to date. Overstreet 2005 NM- 9.2 value = $14,500. CGC census 9/05: 1 in 9.4, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2399 | Oct 15, 2005

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Boy Commandos #1 Mile High pedigree (DC, 1942) CGC NM 9.4 White pages. While Joe Simon and Jack Kirby had already contributed to many comics by the time of this issue, this was only the second title (after Captain America Comics) that was all S&K. Of course, the kid group was a specialty of the duo. The group got its own title here after a successful debut in Detective Comics. The issue has a guest-appearance by the Sandman, whom Simon & Kirby were drawing in Adventure Comics's by this time. And of course, it's also got a classic patriotic cover to recommend it. We can't imagine that any serious DC collector would pass on this Mile High copy! Overstreet 2005 NM- 9.2 value = $8,200. CGC census 9/05: 2 in 9.4, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2105 | Oct 15, 2005

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$25,128 or more
More Fun Comics #59 Mile High pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC NM 9.4 Off-white to white pages. This Mile High copy has everything you could ask for in a comic book, and you're not ever going to find a nicer copy. The fearsome Spectre appears on the cover, drawn by Bernard Baily. Other features include Doctor Fate, Congo Bill, and the Radio Squad. Overstreet 2005 NM- 9.2 value = $5,300. CGC census 7/05: 1 in 9.4, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2165 | Oct 15, 2005

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Top-Notch Comics #9 Mile High pedigree (MLJ, 1940) CGC NM+ 9.6 White pages. MLJ was the publisher that became Archie, and this comic featured the origin and first appearance of one of their more prominent superheroes, the Black Hood. MLJ obviously expected big things from him, as he's billed above the actual title of the book! Youngster Roy the Super Boy, also seen on the cover, is actually the sidekick of this issue's other top hero, the Wizard. The book's artists include Irv Novick. Overstreet and Gerber both assigned their "scarce" rating to this issue. Overstreet 2005 NM- 9.2 value = $8,400. CGC census 9/05: 1 in 9.6, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2511 | Oct 15, 2005

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Wings Comics #1 Mile High pedigree (Fiction House, 1940) CGC NM/MT 9.8 Off-white to white pages. If you collect Fiction House, it doesn't get much better than this A-plus copy of Wings #1, the first issue of a series that ran for 14 years and provided many thrills along the way. Wings was one of the earliest handful of comic book titles published by the company. It was produced by the Jerry Iger "shop" of writers and artists, and modeled closely on the Wings pulp magazine which was also published by Fiction House. A whole host of characters made their first appearances here, among them Suicide Smith (who appeared in the entire run of this series), Clipper Kirk, and "good girl" character Jane Martin, Ambulance Nurse. This debut issue's cover set the tone for the action-packed series; as Jim Steranko put it, "Wings covers attacked the reader. Thunderbolts, Wildcats, and Avengers roared right off the paper." And this grey tone example is certainly in that vein. The issue's interior artists include Klaus Nordling, George Tuska, and H. C. Kiefer. It's tough finding this issue at all (Gerber rates it a "7"), and of course this Mile High copy is the very best available. Overstreet 2005 NM- 9.2 value = $3,300. CGC census 8/05: 1 in 9.8, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2534 | Oct 15, 2005

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Action Comics #24 Mile High pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC NM 9.4 White pages. Clark Kent's place of employment is mentioned as being the Daily Planet (formerly known as the Daily Star) for the first time in this issue. The Man of Steel never looked better than on the cover to this remarkable copy. That "dry, dark basement" belonging to Edgar Church was the perfect environment to store his vast collection of comics; this beautiful example comes complete with exceptionally nice, white paper and rich cover color. This one is "Super" in every way! Overstreet 2005 NM- 9.2 value = $4,000. CGC census 8/05: 1 in 9.4, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2035 | Oct 15, 2005

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Star Spangled Comics #7 Mile High pedigree (DC, 1942) CGC NM 9.4 White pages. Here's the origin and first appearance of the Newsboy Legion! Joe Simon and Jack Kirby created the group, four kids from Suicide Slum who had some brushes with the law, but whom patrolman Jim Harper took into his custody. Aided by Harper (and his alter-ego the Guardian, who also makes his first appearance), the group used its street smarts for good instead of evil, and the kids who bought comics couldn't get enough of the group's adventures. The issue also has the first appearance of Robotman (not the Doom Patrol guy, but a character who enjoyed a long run in this series and later appeared in the All-Star Squadron). This copy's got the amazing colors you associate with a Mile High, so it's no surprise that this is the highest-graded copy in CGC's census. Overstreet 2005 NM- 9.2 value = $9,700. CGC census 8/05: 1 in 9.4, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2190 | Oct 15, 2005

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All Star Comics #6 Mile High pedigree (DC, 1941) CGC NM+ 9.6 Off-white to white pages. One of the most prestigious titles to collect is All Star, and the most prestigious copy to have is the Mile High! And this copy looks newsstand-fresh despite the partially black cover. In the issue, Johnny Thunder joins the Justice Society, but not before the JSAers have a little fun with Johnny by sending him on a fake mission! Johnny replaces the Flash in the super-team. The book has an E. E. Hibbard cover, with interior art by the likes of Bernard Baily and Sheldon Moldoff. Note that the CGC slab has a small (3/4 inch) crack on the back right. Overstreet 2005 NM- 9.2 value = $4,000. CGC census 7/05: 1 in 9.6, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2073 | Oct 15, 2005

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$34,500 or more
Flash Comics #86 Mile High pedigree (DC, 1947) CGC NM+ 9.6 White pages. The first appearance of the Black Canary makes this an issue that stands out from the rest in this later part of the title's run. She debuts in the Johnny Thunder feature, and when we first see her she's persuading a lovestruck Johnny to steal for her! But even here it's left in doubt whether she's a villainess or a heroine, as the people she steals from are shown to be crooks themselves. The story's by the character's co-creators, writer Robert Kanigher and artist Carmine Infantino. The issue also boasts a Hawkman story with Joe Kubert art and cover art by Lee Elias. This is the only copy graded above 8.0 by CGC as of this writing. Overstreet 2005 NM- 9.2 value = $3,700. CGC census 7/05: 1 in 9.6, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2144 | Oct 15, 2005

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All Star Comics #10 Mile High pedigree (DC, 1942) CGC NM+ 9.6 White pages. A glorious Hawkman cover never looked better than on this spectacular Mile High copy, the highest-graded that CGC has certified to date. This time-travel adventure for the Justice Society has art by E. E. Hibbard, Sheldon Moldoff, Jack Burnley, and Bernard Baily. Hibbard is credited with the cover, which has probably the only time you'll ever see Hawkman wearing shorts, and also offers a glimpse of "honorary members" Superman, Batman, Flash, and Green Lantern. Overstreet 2005 NM- 9.2 value = $3,800. CGC census 7/05: 1 in 9.6, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2077 | Oct 15, 2005

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$32,200 or more
More Fun Comics #74 Mile High pedigree (DC, 1941) CGC NM+ 9.6 White pages. Here are the second appearances of two super-famous superheroes, namely Aquaman and Green Arrow! Other highlights are Dr. Fate (drawn on the cover and inside the comic by Howard Sherman), and the fleet-footed Johnny Quick. The Spectre feature (drawn by Bernard Baily) is notable for having the first appearance of Percival Popp, the Supercop. Now, some would dispute whether the grim Spectre really needed a comic-relief partner, but that was the trend of the day, and the Spectre's Golden Age tales definitely changed with Mr. Popp around. This beautiful Mile High book is the only copy of the issue certified with a grade above VF/NM by CGC to date. Overstreet 2005 NM- 9.2 value = $3,850. CGC census 9/05: 1 in 9.6, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2169 | Oct 15, 2005

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$27,500 or more
USA Comics #1 Larson pedigree (Timely, 1941) CGC VF/NM 9.0 Off-white to white pages. No higher grade has been assigned by CGC to date for this Timely #1, and this copy has impeccable provenance going for it, being from the collection of Lamont Larson. The issue is on Overstreet's list of the 100 most valuable Golden Age books, and well it should be -- the first appearance of the Whizzer is the most notable of a whole bunch of debuts; the others are Mister Liberty (later Major Liberty), Rockman, the Defender, and Jack Frost. No doubt you recognize the art of Simon and Kirby on the cover; the duo contributed a page of interior art as well. Basil Wolverton drew the aforementioned subterranean hero, Rockman. Overstreet 2005 VF/NM 9.0 value = $14,052; NM- 9.2 value = $19,500. CGC census 9/05: 3 in 9.0, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2025 | Oct 15, 2005

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Adventure Comics #43 Mile High pedigree (DC, 1939) CGC NM+ 9.6 Off-white pages. As you gaze upon this pristine Mile High copy, keep in mind how old this comic is -- though the issue number sounds high, this came out at the same time as Action #17, and titles like All Star Comics hadn't even hit the stands yet! Our copy of this Adventure issue is the only one graded above 6.5 that CGC has certified to date. The seafaring cover by Fred Guardineer was an appetizer for an issue packed with adventure yarns. The key character is the Sandman, who made one of his earliest appearances in this story drawn by Bert Christman. Also on hand are characters such as playboy adventurer Barry O'Neill, amiable boxer Socko Strong, and the Federal Men (written by Superman co-creator Jerry Siegel). Bob Kane added a humor feature. Overstreet 2005 NM- 9.2 value = $4,500. CGC census 7/05: 1 in 9.6, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2039 | Oct 15, 2005

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Adventure Comics #45 Mile High pedigree (DC, 1939) CGC NM+ 9.6 Off-white pages. The spectacular Mile High colors are the first thing you'll notice about this copy... and only this copy, as it's the only one graded above 7.5 by CGC to date. This issue's cover, credited to Fred Guardineer, certainly lives up to the title of this series. Of course, the star of the book is the Sandman, drawn inside this issue by Creig Flessel. Bob Kane contributed both humor and adventure features to the comic. Overstreet 2005 NM- 9.2 value = $4,500. CGC census 7/05: 1 in 9.6, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2040 | Oct 15, 2005

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More Fun Comics #70 Mile High pedigree (DC, 1941) CGC NM+ 9.6 White pages. Putting together a run of More Fun is a difficult endeavor indeed, especially if you're particular about condition. But we're doing our best to help you reach that goal; here's the highest-graded copy of this issue that CGC has certified to date. The lineup of characters includes Doctor Fate (Howard Sherman art), the Spectre (by Bernard Baily), and the Radio Squad (written by Jerry Siegel and drawn by Fred Ray). Also of note is the last installment of the Lance Larkin backup feature. The cover is by Sherman. Overstreet 2005 NM- 9.2 value = $3,200. CGC census 7/05: 1 in 9.6, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2168 | Oct 15, 2005

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All Star Comics #12 Mile High pedigree (DC, 1942) CGC NM 9.4 White pages. Here's yet another Mile High All Star for you, and it's tied for the highest grade CGC has assigned as of this writing. It looks like the only thing that kept this one from an even higher grade is a wee bit of an overhang at the upper right of the back cover, resulting in a slight blunting at that spot. This issue is notable for Wonder Woman's being made an honorary member of the JSA (their secretary, in fact). The issue's artists include Jack Burnley, Sheldon Moldoff, and Bernard Baily. The cover is credited to Burnley; we had always liked the neat-o background design of this issue, but it took the writings of JSA superfan Roy Thomas to clue us in that the three dots and a dash make a repeating Morse code V. It's a patriotic comic we can't imagine any DC fan being able to resist. Overstreet 2005 NM- 9.2 value = $3,400. CGC census 7/05: 2 in 9.4, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2078 | Oct 15, 2005

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$14,548 or more
Blackhawk #9 Mile High pedigree (Quality, 1944) CGC NM/MT 9.8 Off-white to white pages. We present to you the best known copy of a key first issue! And this is indeed the first Blackhawk issue, with numbering continued from the title Uncle Sam Quarterly title. Legend has it that this new title was originally intended to have various backup features filling up much of the page count, but this debut issue reportedly sold so well that the series quickly became an almost all-Blackhawk affair. The cover is by Al Bryant. As for a white-cover issue in 9.8 condition, if you can acquire this beauty you'll be a happy collector indeed! Overstreet 2005 NM- 9.2 value = $5,400. CGC census 8/05: 1 in 9.8, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2259 | Oct 15, 2005

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Nickel Comics #1 Mile High pedigree (Fawcett, 1940) CGC NM 9.4 Off-white to white pages. The origin and first appearance of Bulletman puts this among the handful of key Fawcett issues. This series was quite an interesting experiment: half the price of the usual comic, half the content, and appearing twice as often (every two weeks). Alas, the title was short-lived, but Bulletman went on to be the star of Master Comics and even had his own title for a while. The cover of this premiere issue is by Jack Binder. Overstreet 2005 NM- 9.2 value = $5,800. CGC census 9/05: 2 in 9.4, 1 higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2418 | Oct 15, 2005

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Suspense Comics #11 Mile High pedigree (Continental Magazines, 1946) CGC NM 9.4 Off-white pages. One of the very best cover artists of the 1940s, L. B. Cole outdoes himself with this incredible Money Devil drawing. The only thing that can top this wild image (considered "classic" by Overstreet) is, of course, the fantastic condition of this Edgar Church Mile High example, which is fresh and sharp. Inside, there's stories featuring the Grey Mask and Mr. Nobody, but just try and tear yourself away from that vivid cover! Overstreet 2005 NM- 9.2 value = $4,550. CGC census 8/05: 2 in 9.4, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2477 | Oct 15, 2005

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All Star Comics #17 Mile High pedigree (DC, 1943) CGC NM+ 9.6 White pages. This beautiful Mile High copy is by far the best known to exist; in fact, there isn't even a copy as high as NM- in CGC's census as of this writing, never mind one that could compete with our offering! This issue's notable for being one of only a few to feature Simon and Kirby art -- S&K drew the chapter featuring the Sandman, whom they were also drawing in Adventure Comics at the time. Other artists include Sheldon Moldoff and Bernard Baily; the cover is by Joe Gallagher. Overstreet 2005 NM- 9.2 value = $2,350. CGC census 7/05: 1 in 9.6, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2080 | Oct 15, 2005

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$19,550 or more
Amazing Comics #1 Mile High pedigree (Timely, 1944) CGC NM 9.4 Off-white pages. This is the one and only issue of this title, and we've got the one and only 9.4 copy (the highest-graded copy overall as of this writing, natch). The issue starred the Young Allies, with the Whizzer and the Destroyer also appearing. The cover is by Alex Schomburg. Overstreet 2005 NM- 9.2 value = $3,000. CGC census 9/05: 1 in 9.4, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2001 | Oct 15, 2005

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Famous Funnies #1 (Eastern Color, 1934) CGC FN 6.0 Cream to light tan pages. This was the first comic book sold to the general public through newsstand distribution! You can't get much more historically significant than that. Just to run down the history for you: this comic's predecessors Funnies On Parade, Famous Funnies: A Carnival Of Comics, and a couple of other one-shots were giveaway premiums, the success of which indicated that there might be reader demand for the format. Then came Famous Funnies, Series 1, which was sold to the general public through chain stores. The new format having passed those tests, Eastern Color brought out this first issue of a monthly newsstand series. It would run for over twenty years. Like all early comic books, this contained comic strip reprints -- the featured characters included Mutt and Jeff, Tailspin Tommy, and Joe Palooka (at the time, some naysayers wondered why anyone would pay 10 cents for the same strips they had already read for free in the newspapers). This comic is currently ranked #58 on Overstreet's list of the most valuable Golden Age comics -- the only reason it's not much higher is that while most comics have NM- prices listed in the Guide, no NM- copy of this is known to exist. In fact, only two copies have received higher grades than our offering to date. And we shouldn't forget to mention that the issue is a Gerber "9" or "Very Rare," so forget about waiting for another one to come along! Overstreet 2005 FN 6.0 value = $9,129. CGC census 9/05: 1 in 6.0, 2 higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2345 | Oct 15, 2005

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All Star Comics #4 (DC, 1941) CGC NM- 9.2 Off-white to white pages. After the pomp and circumstance of the origin and first appearance of the JSA in the previous issue, the superheroes get down to business and enjoy their first adventure. E. E. Hibbard provided the inspiring cover, while Bernard Baily and Sheldon Moldoff did the interior art. This beauty is currently tied with one other copy as the highest-graded in CGC's census. Overstreet 2005 NM- 9.2 value = $8,100. CGC census 9/05: 2 in 9.2, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2070 | Oct 15, 2005

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All Star Comics #24 Mile High pedigree (DC, 1945) CGC NM+ 9.6 Off-white to white pages. We've seen Hitler covers before, but why is Otto von Bismarck joining him? It's because wartime propaganda was the order of the day for this issue, which features a look at all German aggressors throughout history. There's a whole bunch of extra JSA members here too, with Mr. Terrific making his only appearance with the group, and his Sensation Comics cohort, Wildcat, making one of only two appearances. The Flash and Green Lantern rejoin the group in this issue. Also of note is that Joe Kubert drew the issue's Hawkman chapter. And we can't resist mentioning C. C. Beck's Captain Tootsie ad on the back cover, featuring a blatant Sivana ripoff named Dr. Narsty! Overstreet 2005 NM- 9.2 value = $2,050. CGC census 9/05: 1 in 9.6, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2084 | Oct 15, 2005

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$17,250 or more
More Fun Comics #37 Mile High pedigree (DC, 1938) CGC NM 9.4 Off-white to white pages. All issues of More Fun are "scarce to rare" according to Overstreet, and this is the first time we've seen even a nice-looking copy of this issue. This Edgar Church book blows away all others in CGC's census, with the runner-up checking in at 5.5. Cover artist Creig Flessel could draw humorous covers just as well as adventure pics, and we love his football scene here -- Red Grange never had to deal with this! Other contributing artists include big names such as Joe Shuster, Bob Kane, and Bernard Baily. Overstreet 2005 NM- 9.2 value = $2,250. CGC census 7/05: 1 in 9.4, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2157 | Oct 15, 2005

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More Fun Comics #40 Mile High pedigree (DC, 1939) CGC NM 9.4 Off-white to white pages. Not only is this the only copy of this issue we've seen to date, it's the only copy that has been submitted to CGC for certification. No wonder Overstreet says "all issues are scarce to rare," and Gerber gave issue #40 a "7" rating. The issue's cover is by Creig Flessel, who could do humor scenes just as well as adventure fare! There's Flessel interior art in the issue as well, plus the Buccaneer by Bernard Baily, Radio Squad by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, and a humor feature by Bob Kane. Overstreet 2005 NM- 9.2 value = $2,250. CGC census 9/05: 1 in 9.4, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2159 | Oct 15, 2005

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Funny Pages #41 Mile High pedigree (Centaur, 1940) CGC NM 9.4 White pages. Here's a rarity for you -- it's the only copy of the issue that CGC has certified to date, and the first one we've ever seen here at Heritage. It's also got a Gerber scarcity rating of "7." The cover and some of the interior art are by Paul Gustavson. Overstreet 2005 NM- 9.2 value = $2,350. CGC census 8/05: 1 in 9.4, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2363 | Oct 15, 2005

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Military Comics #3 Mile High pedigree (Quality, 1941) CGC NM/MT 9.8 White pages. The third appearance of the Blackhawks is the first appearance of Chop Chop! He's the comic relief member of the group, but also perhaps the bravest of the bunch. The Blackhawk story is just one of many tales of the Army and Navy in this issue. The book has a Chuck Cuidera cover, with interior art by Cuidera, Jack Cole, and Fred Guardineer. This is the highest-graded copy of the issue in CGC's census by far -- in fact, as of this writing it's the only copy graded above VF/NM. Overstreet 2005 NM- 9.2 value = $3,050. CGC census 9/05: 1 in 9.8, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2400 | Oct 15, 2005

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Captain America Comics #57 "D" Copy pedigree (Timely, 1946) CGC NM+ 9.6 Off-white pages. This copy's the best one in CGC's census report -- the only one graded above 9.0, in fact. On Vince Alascia's cover, Captain America and Bucky take a page out of the Sub-Mariner's book, swelling to giant size. Cap stars in three stories inside the comic, one each drawn by Alascia, Al Avison, and Bob Powell. The Human Torch stars in a backup feature, drawn by Carmine Infantino. Overstreet 2005 NM- 9.2 value = $1,800. CGC census 8/05: 1 in 9.6, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2005 | Oct 15, 2005

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More Fun Comics #38 Mile High pedigree (DC, 1938) CGC NM 9.4 Off-white to white pages. This is the only unrestored copy of this tough-to-find issue that CGC has certified to date. Considering the December 1938 cover date, it's amazing that any of these were saved at all, never mind in such nice condition! This one's especially remarkable because the pre-1940 Edgar Church copies aren't always in the outstanding condition that characterizes the later books. No worries here, as this 9.4 copy has everything you could hope for. The comic has a Creig Flessel cover; the mix of interior features includes the Radio Squad by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, the Buccaneer by Bernard Baily, a gag feature by Bob Kane, and much more. Overstreet 2005 NM- 9.2 value = $2,250. CGC census 7/05: 1 in 9.4, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2158 | Oct 15, 2005

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More Fun Comics #50 Mile High pedigree (DC, 1939) CGC NM 9.4 Off-white to white pages. The early issues of More Fun often featured sports-oriented covers like this issue's football scene. This would turn out to be the last such cover; after one more non-heroic issue, the Spectre took over as cover feature. One of the highly-treasured Edgar Church Mile High books, this one lives up to its reputation -- it's a champion copy all the way! Of the three unrestored copies currently listed by CGC, this one is miles above the next-best example, which rates a 7.5 grade. Overstreet 2005 NM- 9.2 value = $2,000. CGC census 8/05: 1 in 9.4, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2161 | Oct 15, 2005

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Famous Funnies: A Carnival of Comics #nn (Eastern Color, 1933) CGC VF/NM 9.0 Off-white pages. Widely regarded as the second comic book ever published, this comic was marketed by M.C. Gaines to a host of retailers including Kinney Shoe Stores and Milk-O-Malt, all of whom used it as a promotional giveaway for their customers. Gaines was leading up to a key test for this new product: would anyone pay 10 cents for a comic book? This "carnival" contains reprints of strips starring Joe Palooka, Mutt and Jeff, Reg'lar Fellers, and other favorites. This historic item would be neat to have in any grade, and the fact that a VF/NM copy has survived is quite amazing -- no copy has been graded higher by CGC to date. Overstreet 2005 VF/NM 9.0 value = $9,240; NM- 9.2 value = $13,000. CGC census 8/05: 3 in 9.0, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2349 | Oct 15, 2005

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Target Comics #10 Mile High pedigree (Novelty Press, 1940) CGC NM+ 9.6 White pages. This issue is notable for sporting perhaps the best-drawn cover of the title's run. Overstreet credits the cover to Joe Simon, Gerber to Jack Kirby... regardless, any S&K fan would love to add this "S or K" cover to his collection. Basil Wolverton, Carl Burgos, and Tarpe Mills are among those contributing interior features. As for the new hero on the block, Target Comics' name was, we presume, a nod to Bull's-Eye Bill, the first issue's coverboy, but since Bill had settled into more of a supporting role, it was time to introduce the Target! On the cover, the titular hero just dropped in to see what condition his condition was in. And we're happy to report that it's an amazing NM+. This comic is the highest-graded copy CGC has certified to date, and the only unrestored copy above 5.0. Take your best shot at this one! Overstreet 2005 NM- 9.2 value = $2,700. CGC census 9/05: 1 in 9.6, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2479 | Oct 15, 2005

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Funny Pages #42 Mile High pedigree (Centaur, 1940) CGC NM 9.4 White pages. It's rated "scarce" by Overstreet, it's the only copy CGC has certified, the only one we've ever seen, and a Gerber "7"... what we're getting at is that this comic is hard to find! Paul Gustavson drew the issue's cover. Overstreet 2005 NM- 9.2 value = $2,450. CGC census 8/05: 1 in 9.4, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2364 | Oct 15, 2005

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Minute Man #1 Mile High pedigree (Fawcett, 1941) CGC NM+ 9.6 Off-white pages. Minute Man, who first appeared in Master Comics, popped up in a host of other Fawcett titles as well, including his own three-issue series. He was a private in the army who battled the enemy as a costumed hero, and if that reminds you of Steve Rogers/Captain America, we thought the same thing, except that Minute Man's first appearance was dated a month before Cap's! This impeccable Mile High copy is the only one to be certified with a grade above VG by CGC to date. Overstreet 2005 NM- 9.2 value = $2,700. CGC census 7/05: 1 in 9.6, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2410 | Oct 15, 2005

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Sensation Comics #1 (DC, 1942) CGC FN- 5.5 Off-white to white pages. This issue's listed among the 30 most valuable comics by Overstreet thanks to the second appearance of the number one superheroine in comics, Wonder Woman. The issue came out just one month after the character was first seen in All Star Comics #8, and this can be said to be Part Two of Wonder Woman's origin, as it shows her arriving in America for the first time and also introduces her "Diana Prince" secret identity. The story is by the creative team that defined the character in the Golden Age, namely writer William Moulton Marston and artist H. G. Peter. Making their first appearances in this issue were Mr. Terrific and Wildcat, both of whom have had stints with the Justice Society over the years) as well as Little Boy Blue and the Blue Boys, three kid pals who don costumes. There's also the Black Pirate feature by Sheldon Moldoff, which Moldoff reportedly called his personal favorite of the features he drew. The famous cover is the work of Jon Blummer. Overstreet 2005 FN 6.0 value = $7,725. CGC census 8/05: 2 in 5.5, 7 higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2183 | Oct 15, 2005

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Blue Beetle #54 Mile High pedigree (Fox Features Syndicate, 1948) CGC NM 9.4 White pages. It seems that whenever this book changes hands in any grade, it's at a price far above Guide level, and lo and behold, we're fortunate enough to be able to offer you the Mile High copy of the issue. The Jack Kamen cover absolutely speaks for itself! The issue got a mention in Seduction of the Innocent, with author Fredric Wertham noting, "Children call these 'headlights' comics." Overstreet 2005 NM- 9.2 value = $1,675. CGC census 7/05: 2 in 9.4, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2272 | Oct 15, 2005

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Flash Comics #30 Mile High pedigree (DC, 1942) CGC NM+ 9.6 White pages. Edgar Church's collection produced this gem, the highest-graded copy of the issue that CGC has certified to date. The issue stars the Flash (drawn by E. E. Hibbard on the cover and inside the comic), Hawkman (drawn by Sheldon Moldoff), and Johnny Thunder. Overstreet 2005 NM- 9.2 value = $1,550. CGC census 8/05: 1 in 9.6, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2137 | Oct 15, 2005

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More Fun Comics #52 (DC, 1940) CGC Apparent FN/VF 7.0 Moderate (P) Cream to off-white pages. This book contains the origin and first appearance of the Spectre, who is in costume in the first splash panel. Spectre cover by Bernard Baily. Stories by Jerry Siegel and Al Sulman, with interior art by Baily, John Lehti, Joe Sulman, and George Papp. CGC notes, "Restoration includes: color touch, pieces added, tear seals, cover cleaned, reinforced. (Wrong married back cover)" Overstreet 2005 GD 2.0 value = $5,350; VG 4.0 value = $10,700; FN 6.0 value = $16,050; VF 8.0 value = $40,400.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2162 | Oct 15, 2005

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Wow Comics #2 Mile High pedigree (Fawcett, 1941) CGC NM 9.4 Off-white pages. This issue's rated "scarce" by Overstreet, and we've got the highest-graded copy yet certified. Mr. Scarlet is the star of this issue (and the whole early run of the series). Premiering in this second issue is the Hunchback, a wealthy playboy who assumed the guise of a hunchback in order to -- why else? -- fight crime! Overstreet 2005 NM- 9.2 value = $3,200. CGC census 8/05: 1 in 9.4, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2552 | Oct 15, 2005

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Top-Notch Comics #10 Mile High pedigree (MLJ, 1940) CGC NM+ 9.6 White pages. This Mile High copy's the best one around by far, in fact it's the only one graded above FN by CGC as of this writing. In light of the Black Hood's above-the-title billing, you may be surprised to learn that this is only his second appearance! The cover is by Al Camy, who also drew both the accompanying story and a tale featuring the Wizard and sidekick Roy the Super-Boy. Overstreet 2005 NM- 9.2 value = $2,300. CGC census 8/05: 1 in 9.6, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2513 | Oct 15, 2005

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Flash Comics #33 San Francisco pedigree (DC, 1942) CGC NM+ 9.6 White pages. This issue's memorable war cover is called "classic" by Overstreet -- the Japanese war scene is the work of Sheldon Moldof, who also drew the Hawkman story inside the issue. The Flash, Johnny Thunder, and others also appear. This copy from the famed Tom Reilly collection is the highest-graded copy of the issue that CGC has certified to date. Overstreet 2005 NM- 9.2 value = $1,550. CGC census 8/05: 1 in 9.6, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2138 | Oct 15, 2005

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National Comics #16 Mile High pedigree (Quality, 1941) CGC NM+ 9.6 White pages. Choosing Lou Fine's best cover would be a tall order indeed, but this one would have to be a candidate for the short list! Fine also handled the interior art on the Uncle Sam story; Nick Cardy and Fred Guardineer are among the other notables who contributed. Looking for a nice copy of the issue? Well, the second-best copy in CGC's census as of this writing is a 7.5... better go after this one. Overstreet 2005 NM- 9.2 value = $1,125. CGC census 8/05: 1 in 9.6, none higher.
Auction 818 | Lot: 2415 | Oct 15, 2005

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