Top 10 Most Valuable Comic Books From The 80s
The dynamic 1980s were the golden era of the world's comic book industry. Explore the list of the most valuable comic books from the 80s, featuring beloved ... read more...superheroes, groundbreaking storylines, and iconic first appearances. Join Toplist on our journey to discover the most sought-after comic book collection of the 80s and learn more about its timeless appeal and cultural significance.
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"Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1" debuted in May 1984, laying the foundation for the beloved TMNT franchise. Packed with thrilling action and funny situations, the comic quickly won over fans of all ages.
The story unfolds in New York City, featuring four ninja-trained turtles - Leonardo, Michelangelo, Donatello, and Raphael - mentored by Splinter, a wise rat. Together, they battle the villainous Shredder amidst the city's bustling streets. Eastman and Laird's creation was special because it mixed Japanese martial arts, American superhero stuff, and humor materials all together.
Because "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1" was so popular, the franchise grew really fast. It led to TV shows, movies, games, and toys, cementing the Turtles' place in popular culture. The comic's real worth goes beyond making money. It's impressive because it keeps on making people love it with its messages about friendship, heroism, and the fight between good and bad.
Originally, “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1” was printed in black and white, and there were only 3,000 copies made, which makes it a rare and valuable item for collectors. As one of the most valuable comic books from the 80s, “A Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1” in near-mint copy can be sold for over $1,000. The highest-priced comic book from the 1980s is a CGC 9.8 grade, selling for over $15,000. The resale value of the book continues to increase and peaked in 2021 when it was sold for 245,000 USD.
Year: 1984
Average price: $10,000 - $30,000
Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/Teenage-Mutant-Ninja-Turtles-1-ebook/dp/B00IU2EWZY
Read Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1 online: https://readcomiconline.li/Comic/Teenage-Mutant-Ninja-Turtles-1984
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"Albedo #2" is part of the "Albedo Anthropomorphics" series, which is known for its special mix of characters that are like humans and science fiction stories. It's known for introducing the popular character Usagi Yojimbo, a samurai rabbit created by Stan Sakai.
The comic is set in a futuristic world where animals act like humans, known as anthropomorphic characters. When Usagi Yojimbo first appeared in "Albedo No. 2," it was just the start. The character became so popular that he got his own series, which people still love today because of its exciting stories, historical setting, and cool characters.
"Albedo #2" is considered a significant publication in the independent comic book movement of the 1980s. It shows how creative and inventive independent comic book creators were back then, setting the stage for lots of different types of stories and art.
The "Albedo Anthropomorphics" series didn't have as many copies printed as regular comic books. The value of “Albedo #2” for collectors is that only 2,000 copies were made. The price of the first printing (super rare) ranges from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on the quality of the book. The highest price recorded was $31,000 in 2019, making it one of the most valuable comic books from the 80s.
Year: 1984
Average price: $5000 - $15,000
Link to buy: https://www.ebay.com/itm/175903630750
Read Albedo #2 online: https://readcomic.me/comic/albedo/issue-2/1
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"The Crow #1" is a notable comic book published by Caliber Press in 1989, written and illustrated by James O'Barr. This comic is the first issue of a series that gained a cult following and inspired a successful movie adaptation.
"The Crow #1" story centers on Eric Draven, a rock musician, and his fiancée, who are both brutally killed by a gang of criminals. After he dies, a supernatural power brings him back to life to get revenge on the people who killed him and Shelly. Throughout the story, Eric confronts his own pain and the pain of those around him, making it a powerful and touching tale of love, loss, and justice.
The illustrations by James O'Barr convey a sense of darkness, capturing the complex emotions and pain experienced by the characters. The comic's atmospheric and haunting visuals have contributed to its enduring appeal among readers and fans of the Gothic genre.
The sad and emotional story of love and revenge touched people's hearts, making it a beloved classic. The average price for this first print in like-new condition is $1,400 or more. Still, the book's worth keeps going up, and the record price so far is $14,400.
Year: 1989
Average price: $700 - $10,000
Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/Crow-James-OBarr/dp/1501176994
Read The Crow #1 online: https://readcomiconline.li/Comic/The-Crow-1999/Issue-1#1
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"Daredevil #168" is a famous comic book that was published by Marvel Comics in 1981. The story introduces the character of Elektra Natchios, a mysterious and highly skilled assassin who crosses paths with Matt Murdock, also known as Daredevil.
Elektra's arrival in Hell's Kitchen adds a complex layer to the series as her past and connection with Daredevil are gradually revealed. The comic explores themes of love, loss, and the blurred line between hero and anti-hero.
What's cool about "Daredevil #168" is that it's not just about the action. It also explores the personal struggles of Daredevil and how he has to balance his life as a superhero with his life as a regular person. We get to see his vulnerabilities and his determination to do what's right, even when things get really tough.
"Daredevil #168" is a favorite among comic book fans because it's got everything you'd want in a superhero story: action, drama, and a hero you can really root for. The book “Daredevil #168” with a CGC of 9.8 is increasing in value. They range from $2,800 to $8,300 and will likely continue to rise in the future.
Year: 1981
Average price: $2000 - $8,000
Link to buy: https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw=daredevil+168&_sop=12
Read Daredevil #168 online: https://readcomic.me/comic/daredevil-1964/issue-168/all
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Published in May 1988 by Marvel Comics, "The Amazing Spider-Man #300" stands as an important issue in the Spider-Man comic book series. It tells the story of Spider-Man's battle with one of his toughest enemies, Venom.
In the comic, a journalist named Eddie Brock becomes Venom after joining with an alien creature that was once linked to Spider-Man. McFarlane's drawings of Venom with his big teeth and scary appearance made a lasting impression on readers and helped make Venom one of the most famous villains in the Marvel universe.
"The Amazing Spider-Man #300" is important because it marks the beginning of the ongoing battles between Spider-Man and Venom, which play a significant role in Spider-Man's story. The comic explores themes like power, consequences, and the struggle between good and evil, making it a compelling read for fans of the Spider-Man series.
Overall, this comic has a special place in the hearts of comic book fans because of its action-packed scenes, interesting characters, and the introduction of the powerful character Venom. A comic in perfect condition can be sold for about $600 or even more. In 2022, the average price of “Amazing Spider-Man #300” (with a CGC 9.8 grade) reached $5,311.
Year: 1988
Average price: $600 - $5000
Link to buy: https://www.mycomicshop.com/search?q=amazing+spiderman+300&pubid=&PubRng=
Read The Amazing Spider-Man #300 online: https://readcomiconline.li/Comic/The-Amazing-Spider-Man-1963/Issue-300#1
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"The Dark Knight Returns #1" is a renowned comic book written and drawn by Frank Miller, published by DC Comics in February 1986. This comic is part of a four-part series that brought a new perspective to the Batman character and changed how people saw superhero stories.
The story happens in a future where an aging Bruce Wayne, who has retired from his role as Batman for ten years, decides to become Batman again. Gotham City is full of crime and bad people, so Batman has to come back to save the city. He faces some old enemies and a new gang called the Mutants, who are causing a lot of trouble.
"The Dark Knight Returns #1" changed how people thought about superhero stories. Frank Miller's unique and gritty narrative redefined Batman as a darker, more complex character. The comic talks about getting older, what happens when people take the law into their own hands, and the never-ending fight between good and bad. It's a different take on Batman that people really liked.
The success of "The Dark Knight Returns" showed that comics could be for grown-ups too, not just kids. It opened the door for more serious and mature storytelling in the world of superheroes. The demand for The Dark Knight Returns #1 is high, and a copy in almost perfect condition can be sold for more than $1,000.
Year: 1986
Average price: $500 - $2000
Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/Batman-Dark-Knight-Returns-Book/dp/B001ANUCZY
Read The Dark Knight Returns #1 online: https://readcomiconline.li/Comic/Batman-The-Dark-Knight-Returns
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This special edition is known for introducing Spider-Man's sleek black costume, which later transforms into the infamous character Venom. The story revolves around Spider-Man's return from the Secret Wars with a mysterious new suit, unaware of its true nature.
The black costume not only gives Spider-Man an edgy new look, but also enhances his powers. However, what he doesn't realize at first is that the costume is actually an alien symbiote that can influence his behavior. The story explores Spider-Man's struggles with the new costume, both in terms of its powers and its effect on his personality.
"Amazing Spider-Man #252" is beloved for its engaging storyline and unique character development. This comic sets the stage for the creation of Venom, one of Spider-Man's most iconic and enduring adversaries.
It's a must-read for Spider-Man fans and comic book enthusiasts. It greatly influences Spider-Man's lasting stories and the ongoing challenges he encounters as a superhero. A book with a CGC grade of 9.8 can sell for $500 - $2000, depending on whether it's in mint or near-mint condition. Copies in near-mint condition are presently priced at over $100.
Year: 1984
Average price: $500 - $2000Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/Amazing-Spider-Man-No-252-252/dp/B000RIHI00
Read Amazing Spider-Man #252 online: https://readcomiconline.li/Comic/The-Amazing-Spider-Man-1963/Issue-252?id=4487#1
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"The Transformers #1" is a cool comic book that came out in September 1984 from Marvel Comics. The comic is set in a world where giant robots, known as Transformers, are in a battle between the heroic Autobots and the evil Decepticons.
It's a battle of good versus evil, with the Autobots fighting for peace and the Decepticons pursuing power. In the comic, we get to meet cool characters like Optimus Prime, Bumblebee, Megatron, and Starscream. They all have their own special powers and personalities, and they're always trying to outsmart each other.
"The Transformers #1" started a whole series of awesome comics, TV shows, and movies. The Transformers have become a big part of popular culture, and this comic is where it all began. It's exciting, action-packed, and full of cool characters that people love.
This comic is super popular with people who love robots and big adventures. It's also been a valuable item for collectors over the years. Its value has continuously increased from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars over the years. Currently, a good copy of the book costs around $2,000, while the record price is $3,400.
Year: 1984
Average price: $400 - $2000
Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/Transformers-MINT-CONDITION-1984-Comic/dp/B002J482M8
Read The Transformers #1 online: https://www.amazon.com/Transformers-MINT-CONDITION-1984-Comic/dp/B002J482M8
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"Crisis on Infinite Earths #1" published in April 1985 by DC Comics, marks the beginning of a monumental comic book series that forever changed the landscape of the DC Universe. It changed how people thought about the multiverse and signaled the end of the Silver Age of comics.
The story is set in a multiverse, with multiple Earths existing in parallel dimensions. However, the peace of the multiverse is threatened by the arrival of a powerful and malevolent being known as the Anti-Monitor. As the Anti-Monitor seeks to destroy the multiverse, heroes and villains from different Earths are drawn into the fight.
"Crisis on Infinite Earths #1" is known for its grand scale and epic storytelling, as it brings together a vast array of iconic characters from different timelines and realities. It not only united beloved heroes from different dimensions but also demonstrated the potential for storytelling on a cosmic scale.
The impact of this series on the comic book industry and its enduring popularity among fans make it an essential read for any comic enthusiast. “Crisis on Infinite Earths #1” is a comic that a lot of collectors are looking for, and if it's in good condition, it can be sold for around $100 to $200. The current record price is $1,550 for the CGC 9.9 comic.
Year: 1985
Average price: $100 - $1000
Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/Crisis-Infinite-Earths-1-Millennium/dp/B000IGAIXU
Read Crisis on Infinite Earths #1 online: https://readcomiconline.li/Comic/Crisis-on-Infinite-Earths-1985/Issue-1?id=39372#1
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This issue, "X-Men #141," is favored for its time-travel-themed storyline that has left a lasting impact on the X-Men franchise. The story happens in a sad future where big robots called Sentinels hunt and capture mutants, like the X-Men. In this dark future, the world is bleak, and mutants are on the brink of extinction.
The story unfolds as a dual timeline, with the present-day X-Men working alongside Kitty Pryde to stop the assassination of Senator Robert Kelly, an event that sets the dystopian future into motion. The comic has lots of cool science fiction, time-travel, and superhero fighting, as the X-Men face tough enemies and have to make hard choices.
"X-Men #141" is a really important comic that changed the X-Men series and how superhero stories are told. It introduced the idea of different futures and timelines, which is now a big part of many superhero stories. The comic's impact can be seen in TV shows and movies based on the "Days of Future Past" story.
In excellent condition, a near-mint copy of “X-Men #141” can be quite valuable, with prices often reaching around $400 or even more.
Year: 1981
Average price: $100 - $1000
Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/Uncanny-X-Men-Chris-Claremont-Byrne/dp/B002JQ8XUW
Read X-Men #141 online: https://readcomiconline.li/Comic/Uncanny-X-Men-1963/Issue-141?id=22820#1