11 Old Comic Books That Could Be Worth Thousands

If you have some old comic books tucked away, you might be sitting on more than just nostalgic memories. Many vintage comics carry significant value, sometimes reaching into the thousands of dollars.

Collecting or selling comics can feel overwhelming, especially with so many different issues and conditions to consider. Here are some notable old comics that could be worth a substantial amount, helping you spot possible gems among your own books.

Action Comics #1 (1938)

Action Comics No. 1 cover featuring Superman lifting a green car, yellow background, iconic 1938 comic book
Image credit: bp70walleyes/eBay.

If you own Action Comics #1, you have a truly rare comic on your hands. This issue introduced Superman and is a cornerstone of comic book history.

Even copies with lower grades can sell for impressive amounts, sometimes hundreds of thousands of dollars. High-grade versions have fetched over $3 million at auction. It’s worth having it appraised if you think you might have a copy.

Superman #1 (1939)

Vintage Superman comic book, first issue, bright yellow cover, Superman on ground, metallic villain looming, DC logo top left
Image Credit: Argos-Dog/eBay.

If you have a copy of Superman #1 from 1939, it could be quite valuable. This issue marks Superman’s first solo comic appearance.

Mint condition copies have sold for millions, with some reaching over $5 million. Even lower-grade copies can still be worth tens of thousands. Keeping your comic in good condition will help maintain its value.

Amazing Fantasy #15 (1962)

Amazing Fantasy #15 (1962)
Image Credit: MyComicShop / Ebay

If you have a copy of Amazing Fantasy #15, you’re holding a piece of comic book history. This issue features Spider-Man’s first appearance, making it highly sought after by collectors.

Even copies with some damage or tape can be valuable. High-grade versions have sold for millions, but lower grades still bring thousands at auction.

Originally, around 300,000 copies were printed, but far fewer survive in good condition.

Captain America Comics #1 (1941)

Captain America Comics #1 (1941)
Image Credit: Nerd Herd Printing / Ebay

If you have a copy of Captain America Comics #1, you’re holding a piece of comic book history. This issue marks the first appearance of Captain America and Bucky, making it highly sought after.

Even a copy in fair condition can be worth thousands. In near-mint condition, the value can reach into the hundreds of thousands, or more.

Collectors prize this comic for its iconic characters and its role in the Golden Age of comics.

Marvel Comics #1 (1939)

Marvel Comics #1 (1939)
Image Credit: comiXology / Amazon

If you come across a copy of Marvel Comics #1, you’re holding a piece of history. This issue marks the beginning of Marvel’s universe and is highly sought after by collectors.

Its rarity makes it valuable, with prices often reaching into the millions. A well-preserved copy from 1939 can be worth thousands or even more.

Batman #1 (1940)

Batman #1 (1940)
Image Credit: Imagine That! Comics / Ebay

If you have a copy of Batman #1 from 1940, you might be sitting on something valuable. This comic is one of the earliest appearances of Batman and has become a prized item for collectors.

Its value has been known to reach over two million dollars in excellent condition. Even if your copy isn’t perfect, it could still be worth thousands.

This issue marks the beginning of Batman’s journey as Gotham’s Dark Knight.

The Flash #1 (1940)

The Flash #1 (1940)
Image Credit: donniekscomics / Ebay

If you have a copy of The Flash #1 from 1940, it could be quite valuable. This issue features the first appearances of both The Flash and Hawkman, making it a key collectible.

Even lower-graded copies have significant worth, but mint-condition copies can sell for six figures. The condition greatly affects the price, so handling it carefully is important if you want to keep its value.

X-Men #1 (1963)

X-Men #1 (1963)
Image Credit: TekkCollect / Ebay

If you have a copy of X-Men #1 from 1963, it could be quite valuable. Even a heavily worn issue might fetch over $1,700, while a better graded copy can go for thousands more.

Mint condition copies are rare and can be worth upwards of $50,000, sometimes much higher depending on grading.

Fantastic Four #1 (1961)

Fantastic Four #1 (1961)
Image Credit: gophilafly / Ebay

If you have a copy of Fantastic Four #1 from 1961, it could be quite valuable. This issue features the first appearance of iconic characters like Mr. Fantastic, the Thing, the Human Torch, and the Invisible Girl.

The condition of your comic greatly affects its worth. For example, a near-mint copy can sell for tens of thousands, while lower grades are worth less but still collectible.

Detective Comics #27 (1939)

Detective Comics #27 (1939)
Image Credit: Alldayshirt / Ebay

If you have a copy of Detective Comics #27, you’re holding a piece of history. This issue marks the first appearance of Batman, making it highly sought after.

Prices for high-grade copies can reach well over a million dollars, especially if the condition is near mint. Even lower-grade versions are valuable and can still fetch thousands.

The Punch Comic (rare edition)

The Punch Comic (rare edition)
Image Credit: TopNotch13’s Comics / Ebay

If you have a Punch Comic, especially an older issue, it could be quite valuable. Some rare editions have sold for impressive amounts at auction.

This comic is known for its association with notable collections, like the Crowley Copy. Collectors appreciate the classic art and characters inside its pages.

You might want to check the condition carefully. Even minor damage can affect its worth. A well-preserved copy can attract serious interest.