THE INVINCIBLE IRON MAN ##1
Marvel Comics • Iron Man Vol. 1
Writer
Archie Goodwin
Interior Artist
Gene Colan
Cover Artist
Gene Colan and Mike Esposito
Publication Date
May 1968
Cover Variant
Regular/Direct Edition (12 cent price point)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
First issue of Iron Man's solo title. The story titled 'Alone Against A.I.M.!' features Tony Stark battling the Advanced Idea Mechanics (A.I.M.) and follows the events of Iron Man and Sub-Mariner #1. It includes a retelling of Iron Man's origin.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good/Fine (CGC 5.0)
Condition Details
Visible spine stress and color-breaking ticks along the left edge. Significant corner blunting on the bottom left and top left. Minor color loss/scuffing on the purple background. Verticall abrasion/line visible on the left side. Slight edge wear along the bottom. Likely cream to off-white pages based on age.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $500 - $800; Graded (CGC 5.0): $1,000 - $1,400
Recent Sales
CGC 5.0 copies have recently sold in the $1,100-$1,300 range. Raw copies in mid-grade condition fluctuate between $600 and $900 depending on eye appeal.
Grading Recommendation
Yes, worth grading. Iron Man #1 is a major Silver Age key. Professional cleaning and pressing could potentially elevate this to a 5.5 or 6.0, significantly increasing market liquidity and protecting the value.
Notable Features
Major Key Issue: First issue in solo self-titled series. Origin of Iron Man retold. Iconic cover art by Gene Colan. Features A.I.M. and Whiplash. 12 cent cover price.
Authentication Notes
Appears authentic. Correct 12-cent price box and 'MCG' logo. Ink saturation and 'Marvel chipping' patterns on the edge are consistent with late 1960s Marvel production. No immediate signs of being a reprint or facsimile.