The X-Men ##1
Marvel Comics • The X-Men Vol. 1
Writer
Stan Lee
Interior Artist
Jack Kirby (pencils), Paul Reinman (inks)
Cover Artist
Jack Kirby
Publication Date
September 1963
Cover Variant
Regular
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
First appearance of the X-Men (Cyclops, Iceman, Angel, Beast, and Marvel Girl) and Professor X. First appearance of Magneto. This issue establishes the school for gifted youngsters and the core conflict between mutantkind and humanity.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good (CGC 4.0) - Estimated
Condition Details
Moderate spine stress and potential split at the top/bottom. Notable creasing on the right-hand side and corners. General yellowing/toning of the white cover stock. Possible small tears or chips on the edges based on visible blur. The image shows a relatively flat book with visible handling wear consistent with Mid-Grade.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $8,000 - $12,000 | Graded (4.0): $15,000 - $20,000
Recent Sales
CGC 4.0 copies have recently sold in the range of $16,000 to $18,500. Mid-grade copies (3.0 to 5.0) remain one of the most volatile but high-demand segments for this key.
Grading Recommendation
Highly recommended. This is a Mega-Key. Professional grading via CGC or CBCS is essential for authentication and value maximization. A professional 'Clean and Press' is advised to improve the 4.0 estimated grade to potentially a 4.5 or 5.0.
Notable Features
First appearances of the entire original X-Men team and Magneto. Iconic Jack Kirby cover. 12-cent cover price. High-demand Silver Age cornerstone.
Authentication Notes
Due to high value, many reprints exist (Golden Records, Marvel Milestone, etc.). However, the visible '12¢' price and 'Sept 1' date format are consistent with an original 1963 printing. Verification of paper scent, interior newsprint quality, and staple oxidation is required to confirm full authenticity.