The Invincible Iron Man ##1
Marvel Comics • Iron Man Vol. 1
Writer
Archie Goodwin
Interior Artist
Gene Colan
Cover Artist
Gene Colan
Publication Date
May 1968
Cover Variant
Regular
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
First issue in Iron Man's solo self-titled series. Titled 'The Triumph of Iron Man!', the story features Iron Man battling A.I.M. and the Wizard. It also features a retelling of Iron Man's origin story.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good (CGC 4.0)
Condition Details
Moderate spine stress and ticks; color-breaking crease running vertically and horizontally on left-middle side; corner blunting especially on top left and bottom right; minor chipping on the top edge; probable tanning of interior pages based on age; slight indentation/scuffing visible near the 'Big Premiere' burst.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $600 - $800; Graded (CGC 4.0): $1,000 - $1,300
Recent Sales
Recent 4.0 GPA sales range from $950 to $1,400 depending on eye appeal; raw copies in similar condition average $750.
Grading Recommendation
Highly recommended for professional grading (CGC/CBCS). As a major Silver Age key issue, authentication and encapsulation significantly protect value. A professional clean and press could potentially elevate the grade to a 4.5 or 5.0.
Notable Features
Premier issue of solo series; Silver Age key; features origin retelling; iconic Gene Colan cover art; 12 cent cover price indicator of first printing.
Authentication Notes
Appears authentic with period-correct 12-cent silver age pricing, Marvel Comics Group header, and appropriate paper aging. Printing quality and ink density are consistent with 1968 manufacturing standards.