The best first issues (#1) of comics are, at the top, Fantastic Four #1 , X-Men #1 (1963), Amazing Spider-Man #1 and Incredible Hulk #1. This tier list ranks launch issues according to their historical importance and collectible value. Facts (publisher, date) verified, no invented ratings; each entry refers to its file.
The first issue of a series is doubly valuable: historically, because it launches a character or team; and for the collector, because it often concentrates the most sought-after first appearances. This tier list ranks the #1s according to their importance and their potential rating.
Editorial Ranks, Facts verified. Each entry refers to its file on the site.
Tier S: the #1 founders of Marvel
Fantastic Four #1 (1961) launched the modern Marvel Universe. X-Men #1 (1963) introduced the original mutants, Amazing Spider-Man #1 launches the hero's solo series, and Incredible Hulk #1 (1962) presents the green giant. Four of the most expensive key numbers on the market.
Tier A: the big launches
Avengers #1, Batman #1 (1940), Superman #1 (1939) and the X-Men #1 from 1991 (the best-selling comic of all time) are at the top.
Tier B: the notable #1s
Daredevil #1, Spawn #1, Watchmen #1 et The Walking Dead #1 are major launches, from classic to modern.
Tier C: the modern #1s sought after
Saga #1, Invincible #1, New Teen Titans #1 et Preacher #1 are among the most popular debut issues of recent decades.
Tier D: the #1 authors
Y: The Last Man #1, East of West #1 et The Sandman #1 close this tier list: excellent first issues, often more affordable.
To remember
- The #1s of the Silver Age (FF #1, ASM #1) are among the most expensive on the market.
- A #1 often concentrates the most sought after first appearance.
- Beware of overproduced modern #1s: rarity is not guaranteed.
- Each entry refers to its file on the site.
Frequently asked questions
Fantastic Four #1 (1961) is often cited as the most important, as it launched the modern Marvel Universe. Amazing Spider-Man #1 and X-Men #1 (1963) followed closely.
Not necessarily: old and rare #1s increase in value, but many modern #1s are overproduced and remain undervalued. Always check the actual rating before purchasing.
Often yes, because it carries the launch and sometimes the first appearance. But a later issue containing a major first appearance may be worth more than #1.
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