Comics auction could be a 'Marvel' for Spiderman and Thor collectors

Highly-collectible first issue Marvel comics are on course to be the top lots in tomorrow's online sale

Heritage Auctions' online comic book sale, this Sunday, is offering up some rare collectible treats for fans of the "Silver age" of comic books, with Marvel characters set to feature prominently.

Fantastic Four Issue No.1

Referring to the period of 1956 to 1970, the "Silver age" saw the advancement of the superhero genre in American comic book literature, with the introduction of new flawed lead characters.

Sunday's auction offers collectors the chance to invest in a number of important first issues from today's most popular heroes of the Marvel Comics stable.

The first issue of X Men is one such highlight.

Originally published in 1963, and drawn by legendary comic book artist Jack Kirby, this first issue features the origins of classic characters like "Beast," "Cyclops," "Professor X" and "Magneto", who would go on to play pivotal roles in the X Men film franchise.

At the time of writing, this mid grade copy had a highest bid of $1,100.

Alternatively, the first issue of Marvel's original superhero team, the Fantastic Four, is also open to online bids.

The 1961 first issue is drawn by Kirby and includes the first appearance of the villain "Mole Man".

The current bid on this collectible comic is $1,600, though this could soon change...

Elsewhere "Journey into Mystery", issue no.83 from 1962, offers another rare opportunity to comic book collectors.

The Amazing Spiderman Issue No.1

Created by Kirby and famous illustrator Steve Ditko, the issue features the first appearance of a "Dr. Don Blake" otherwise known as "Thor" and is currently bidding at $1,800.

Yet the most popular collectible comic of Sunday's auction so far, comes from Marvel's favourite web slinging hero.

The 1963, Jack Kirby and Steve Ditko illustrated first issue of "The Amazing Spider Man" is a rare find indeed.

The issue covers the origins of Spiderman, as well as introducing the legendary characters "John Jameson", "J. Jonah Jameson" and the villain "the Chameleon."

As if that wasn't enough, the issue also manages to fit in a crossover with the Fantastic four, making it a must-have for fans and collectors alike.

With bids currently reaching $2,200 for this well conditioned piece, the next two days could see the price increase even further.

Heritage's auction of these and over 600 other titles from a diverse range of backgrounds is not one to be missed.

Furthermore, with internet bids coming from collectors all over the world, the competition for these silver age no.1 issues and first appearance could become even more competitive.

The online auction closes on Sunday July 25 at 10pm, central time.

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Images: Heritage Auction Galleries