Heritage Auctions Rare Comics Auction Catalog 7054 Billy Wright Collection New York City

C OMICS & C OMIC A RT AUCTION

february 22-24, 2012New yorklive & oNliNe

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Heritage Signature Auction #7054

The Billy Wright CollectionFebruary 22-24, 2012 | New YorkLIVE AUCTION Signature Floor Sessions 1-2(Floor, Telephone, HERITAGE Live!, Internet, Fax, and Mail)

LOT VIEWING

Ukrainian Institute of America at the Fletcher Sinclair Mansion 2 E. 79th Street New York, NY 10075 Session 1 Wednesday, February 22 12:00 PM ET Lots 9100191677 Lots 91001-91227 - The Billy Wright Collection Lots 91228-91677 (see separate catalog) - DC Ashcan Collection,Golden Age Comics, Silver Age and Bronze Age Comics, Bound Volumes, Magazines, Underground Comix, Pulps, and Memorabilia

Ukrainian Institute of America at the Fletcher Sinclair Mansion 2 E. 79th Street New York, NY 10075 Monday, February 20 12:00 PM 6:00 PM ET Tuesday, February 21 10:00 AM 6:00 PM ET Wednesday, February 22 10:00 AM 6:00 PM ET Thursday, February 23 9:00 AM 2:00 PM ET View lots & auction results online at HA.com/7054

BIDDING METHODS:Bidding Bid live on your computer or mobile, anywhere in the world, during the Auction using our HERITAGE Live! program at HA.com/Live Live Floor Bidding Bid in person during the floor sessions. Live Telephone Bidding (floor sessions only) Phone bidding must be arranged on or before Tuesday, February 21, by 12:00 PM CT. Client Service: 866-835-3243. Internet Bidding Internet absentee bidding ends at 10:00 PM CT the evening before each session. HA.com/7054 Fax Bidding Fax bids must be received on or before Tuesday, February 21, by 12:00 PM CT. Fax: 214-409-1425 Mail Bidding Mail bids must be received on or before Tuesday, February 21. Phone: 214.528.3500 800.872.6467 Fax: 214.409.1425 Direct Client Service Line: 866.835.3243 Email: [email protected]

Session 2 Thursday, February 23 12:00 PM ET Lots 9200192397Original Art, Production Art, Classics Illustrated Art, Underground Art, Animation Art

HERITAGE Live!, Internet, Fax, & Mail only Session Session 3 Friday, February 24 3:00 PM CT (4:00 PM ET) Lots 93001-93785 Lots 93001-93091 The Billy Wright Collection Lots 93092-93785 (see separate catalog) Golden Age Comics, Silver Age and Bronze Age Comics, Bound Volumes, Magazines, Pulps, Memorabilia, Original Art A-Z, Production Art, Underground Art, and Animation Art.

LOT SETTLEMENT AND PICK-UP

Available immediately following sessions 1 and 2 or 9:00 AM 12:00 PM ET, Friday, February 24th. After 12:00 PM on the 24th all lots will be transported back to our Dallas Headquarters and shipped from there.Extended Payment Terms available. Email: [email protected] are sold at an approximate rate of 100 lots per hour, but it is not uncommon to sell 75 lots or 125 lots in any given hour. This auction is subject to a 19.5% Buyers Premium. Heritage Auctioneers & Galleries, Inc.: NYC #41513036 and NYC Second Hand Dealers License #1364739. NYC Auctioneer licenses: Samuel Foose 0952360; Robert Korver 1096338; Kathleen Guzman 0762165; Michael J. Sadler 1304630; Scott Peterson 1306933; Andrea Voss 1320558. Nicholas Dawes 1304724; Ed Beardsley 1183220.

23632

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CEO Co-Chairman of the Board Sr. Vice President

Steve Ivy

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Managing Director of Comics & Comic Art

Lon Allen

Co-Chairman of the Board

Jim Halperin

Director, Operations

Barry Sandoval

Todd HigniteVice President

Consignment Director

Steve Borock

Greg RohanPresident

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Paul Minshull

3500 Maple Avenue Dallas, Texas 75219 Phone 214-528-3500 800-872-6467 HA.com/ComicsConsignment Directors: Lon Allen, Steve Borock, Todd Hignite, Ed Jaster, Barry Sandoval, David Tosh, Jim Steele, Jerry Stephan, and Aaron White.

Executive Vice President

Todd Imhof

Cataloged by: Barry Sandoval

About the

The Billy Wright CollectionBilly Wright was 11 years old when Action Comics #1 hit the newsstands to begin the Golden Age of comics. He grew up in Lynchburg, Virginia, attended The College of William and Mary, and then had a long career as a chemical engineer for DuPont. He passed away in 1994. His comics were stored in the basement of his home, stacked on shelves in a storage closet, and remained there until his wifes recent passing. The collection has been recognized as a pedigree collection by CGC. Paul Litch, Vice-President of CGC, remarked at the time: They have a nice feel to them, nice over-all page quality and a distinctive scent. The Billy Wright books are an exciting find and absolutely worthy of being recognized as a pedigree by CGC. A remarkable aspect of the collection is the high percentage of key issues and the almost complete absence of less collectible titles. In addition to having many of Overstreets Top 100 Golden Age books (see chart on the following page), the collection has sixty-seven #1 issues and thirty-three #2 issues. In all, the Billy Wright collection consists of approximately 340 comics, almost all from 19361941, with just a handful of later 1940s issues. The earliest comic in the collection is New Comics #2, cover-dated January 1936. While a couple of comics have Mr. Wrights name on the cover, the vast majority are distinguished by having no cover markings of any kind, a fact that is sure to be welcomed by collectors. Please note that additional comics from the Billy Wright Collection will be offered in the Sunday Internet Comics Auction at HA.com, ending February 26th.

TOP The Best of The Billy Wright Collection: BOOKSthe Golden AgeAn unusually high percentage of the comics bought by Billy Wright are the key books of today. In fact, a stunning 44 The following tables denote the Golden Age Books the are represented in the collection. issues of Overstreets Top 100 rate of appreciation of list top Golden Age, Platinum Age, Silver Age and Bronze Age books, as well as

selected genres over the past year. The retail value for a Near Mint- copy of each book (or VF where a Near Mint- copy is not known to exist) over 2010 is given. The place in rank is given for each comic by year, with copy is either the highest-graded on CGCs census report,very tied for forecasting trends in the market place. its corresponding value in highest known grade. These tables can be or useful in the highest grade, as of January The Billy Wright For instance, the investor might want to know which book is yielding the best dividend from one year to the next, or one might just be inter2012. ested in seeing how the popularity of books changes from year to year. For instance, Archie Comics #1 was in 35th place in 2010 and has The Billy to 23rd place in 2011. of the five highest-graded single copies certified by CGC as of January 2012. increased Wright copy is one Premium books are also included in these tables and are denoted with an asterisk(*). The following tables in meant as Wright collection. The issue is includedare the Billy a guide to the investor. However, it should be pointed out that trends may change at anytime and that some books can meet while notresistance with list,slowdown high Guide value of $20,000others cantherefore be said to be tied for #97.a presently market included in this a also has a in price increases, while and could develop into real comers from *Detective Comics #30, dormant state. In the one run, five best on CGCs census to date. The Billy Wright copy is long of theif the investor sticks to the books that are appreciating steadily each year, he shouldnt go very far wrong.For easy reference,to its have Mint- value in 2010. Thebelow as follows: in 2011 is compared we Near marked these issues rate of return for 2011List 2011 Gemstone Publishing, Inc. Overstreet is a Registered Trademark of Gemstone Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Used by permission.

TOP 100 GOLDEN AGE BOOKS2011 2011 2010 2010 TITLE/ISSUE# RANK NM- PRICE RANK NM- PRICE Action Comics #1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 $1,400,000 1 $1,200,000 Detective Comics #27 . . . . . . . . . . . .2 $1,200,000 2 $1,050,000 Superman #1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 $560,000 3 $500,000 Marvel Comics #1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 $460,000 4 $450,000 All-American Comics #16 . . . . . . . . . .5 $400,000 5 $350,000 $285,000 6 $250,000 Batman #1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Captain America Comics #1 . . . . . . . .7 $240,000 7 $215,000 Flash Comics #1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 $155,000 8 $145,000 More Fun Comics #52 . . . . . . . . . . . .9 $145,000 9 $135,000 Action Comics #7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 $125,000 11 $100,000 $120,000 10 $115,000 Adventure Comics #40 . . . . . . . . . . .11 Detective Comics #31 . . . . . . . . . . . .12 $100,000 14 $90,000 Detective Comics #33 . . . . . . . . . . . .12 $100,000 13 $92,000 Whiz Comics #2 (#1) . . . . . . . . . . . .12 $100,000 12 $95,000 Action Comics #2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 $95,000 17 $84,000 All Star Comics #3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 $90,000 15 $85,000 Detective Comics #29 . . . . . . . . . . . .17 $88,000 18 $80,000 Detective Comics #38 . . . . . . . . . . . .17 $88,000 15 $85,000 Detective Comics #1 . . . . . . . . . . . .19 VF $84,000 19 VF $77,000 Marvel Mystery Comics #9 . . . . . . . .20 $80,000 20 $70,000 All Star Comics #8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 $75,000 $75,000 More Fun Comics #53 . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Archie Comics #1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 $70,000 Pep Comics #22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 $70,000 Marvel Mystery Comics #2 . . . . . . . .25 $68,000 Action Comics #10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 $66,000 Human Torch #2 (#1) . . . . . . . . . . . .27 $65,000 Sub-Mariner Comics #1 . . . . . . . . . .27 $65,000 Green Lantern #1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 $64,000 Sensation Comics #1 . . . . . . . . . . . .30 $62,000 Action Comics #3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31 $60,000 Captain Marvel Adventures #1 . . . . . .32 $57,000 $57,000 Marvel Mystery Comics #5 . . . . . . . .32 Detective Comics #28 . . . . . . . . . . . .34 $56,000 Wonder Woman #1 . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 $55,000 Adventure Comics #48 . . . . . . . . . . .36 $54,000 New Fun Comics #1 . . . . . . . . . . . . .37 VF $52,000 Suspense Comics #3 . . . . . . . . . . . .38 $50,000 $46,000 Detective Comics #35 . . . . . . . . . . . .39 Walt Disneys Comics & Stories #1 . .40 $42,000

$ % INCR. INCR. $200,000 17% $150,000 14% $60,000 12% $10,000 2% $50,000 14% $35,000 14% $25,000 12% $10,000 7% $10,000 7% $25,000 25% $5,000 4% $10,000 11% $8,000 9% $5,000 5% $11,000 13% $5,000 6% $8,000 10% $3,000 4% $7,000 9% $10,000 14% $5,000 $5,000 $20,000 $20,000 $3,000 $11,000 $1,000 $1,000 $2,000 $2,000 $6,000 $2,000 $3,000 $6,000 $3,000 $2,000 $1,000 $5,000 $6,000 $2,000 7% 7% 40% 40% 5% 20% 2% 2% 3% 3% 11% 4% 6% 12% 6% 4% 2% 11% 15% 5%

20 $70,000 20 $70,000 35 $50,000 35 $50,000 23 $65,000 28 $55,000 24 $64,000 24 $64,000 26 $62,000 27 $60,000 30 $54,000 28 $55,000 30 $54,000 35 $50,000 32 $52,000 32 $52,000 34 VF $51,000 38 $45,000 39 $40,000 39 $40,000

2011 2011 2010 2010 $ % TITLE/ISSUE# RANK NM- PRICE RANK NM- PRICE INCR. INCR. All-American Comics #19 . . . . . . . . .41 $39,000 43 $37,000 $2,000 5% Captain America Comics #2 . . . . . . .42 $38,000 46 $35,000 $3,000 9% Daring Mystery Comics #1 . . . . . . . .42 $38,000 41 $38,000 $0 0% Marvel Mystery Comics #3 . . . . . . . .42 $38,000 44 $36,000 $2,000 6% *Marvel Mystery Comics 132 pg. . . . .42 VF $38,000 44 VF $36,000 $2,000 6% Superman #2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42 $38,000 46 $35,000 $3,000 9% All Winners Comics #1 . . . . . . . . . . .47 $35,000 41 $38,000 -$3,000 -8% Batman #2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47 $35,000 49 $32,000 $3,000 9% Captain America Comics 132 pg. . . .47 VF $35,000 48 VF $33,000 $2,000 6% Action Comics #4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50 $34,000 52 $31,000 $3,000 10% Action Comics #5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50 $34,000 52 $31,000 $3,000 10% Action Comics #6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50 $34,000 52 $31,000 $3,000 10% More Fun Comics #54 . . . . . . . . . . . .50 $34,000 49 $32,000 $2,000 6% Marvel Mystery Comics #4 . . . . . . . .54 $33,000 59 $29,000 $4,000 14% More Fun Comics #55 . . . . . . . . . . . .54 $33,000 52 $31,000 $2,000 6% Motion Picture Funnies Wkly #1 . . . .54 $33,000 49 $32,000 $1,000 3% Famous Funnies-Series 1 #1 . . . . . . .57 VF $31,000 56 VF $30,000 $1,000 3% More Fun Comics #73 . . . . . . . . . . . .57 $31,000 56 $30,000 $1,000 3% Action Comics #13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59 $30,000 70 $25,000 $5,000 20% All-Select Comics #1 . . . . . . . . . . . .59 $30,000 62 $28,000 $2,000 7% Amazing Man Comics #5 . . . . . . . . . .59 $30,000 59 $29,000 $1,000 3% Captain America Comics #3 . . . . . . .59 $30,000 65 $27,000 $3,000 11% New Book of Comics #1 . . . . . . . . . .59 VF $30,000 56 VF $30,000 $0 0% New York Worlds Fair 1939 . . . . . . .64 VF/NM $29,000 Mystic Comics #1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65 $28,000 Wonder Comics #1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65 $28,000 Marvel Mystery Comics #8 . . . . . . . .67 $27,000 Wow Comics (FAW) #1 . . . . . . . . . . .67 $27,000 Silver Streak Comics #6 . . . . . . . . . .69 $26,500 All-Flash #1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70 $26,000 Young Allies Comics #1 . . . . . . . . . .70 $26,000 Adventure Comics #73 . . . . . . . . . . .72 $25,000 Four Color Ser. 1 (Donald Duck) #4 . .72 $25,000 Marvel Mystery Comics #10 . . . . . . .72 $25,000 Worlds Best Comics #1 . . . . . . . . . .72 $25,000 New Fun Comics #6 . . . . . . . . . . . . .76 VF $24,500 Planet Comics #1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77 $24,500 Adventure Comics #61 . . . . . . . . . . .78 $24,000 Detective Comics #2 . . . . . . . . . . . .78 VF $24,000 Red Raven Comics #1 . . . . . . . . . . .78 $24,000 All Star Comics #1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81 Daredevil #1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81 All-American Comics #18 . . . . . . . . .83 Famous Funnies #1 . . . . . . . . . . . . .83 Green Giant Comics #1 . . . . . . . . . . .83 Looney Tunes and Merrie Melodies #1 86 New Fun Comics #2 . . . . . . . . . . . . .86 Action Comics #8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88 Action Comics #9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88 All-American Comics #17 . . . . . . . . .88 All-American Comics #25 . . . . . . . . .88 Superman #3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88 Jumbo Comics #1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .93 Daring Mystery Comics #2 . . . . . . . .94 Dick Tracy-Feature Book nn (#1) . . . .94 Double Action Comics #2 . . . . . . . . .96 Batman #3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97 Comics Magazine #1 . . . . . . . . . . . .97 Exciting Comics #9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97 Four Color Ser. 2 (Donald Duck) #9 . .97 New Comics #1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97 USA Comics #1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97 $23,500 $23,500 $23,000 VF $23,000 $23,000 $22,500 VF $22,500 $22,000 $22,000 $22,000 $22,000 $22,000 VF $21,500 $21,000 $21,000 $20,500 $20,000 VF $20,000 $20,000 $20,000 VF $20,000 $20,000

59VF/NM $29,000 65 $27,000 63 $27,500 70 $25,000 65 $27,000 68 $26,000 63 $27,500 69 $25,500 70 $25,000 74 $24,000 79 $23,000 70 $25,000 74 VF $24,000 74 $24,000 74 $24,000 82 VF $22,000 78 $23,500 79 79 82 81 82 82 82 89 89 96 88 89 87 89 96 89 96 96 96 89 89 $23,000 $23,000 $22,000 VF $22,500 $22,000 $22,000 VF $22,000 $20,000 $20,000 $19,000 $21,000 $20,000 VF $21,500 $20,000 $19,000 $20,000 $18,000 VF $19,000 $19,000 $19,000 VF $20,000 $20,000

$0 $1,000 $500 $2,000 $0 $500 -$1,500 $500 $0 $1,000 $2,000 $0 $500 $500 $0 $2,000 $500 $500 $500 $1,000 $500 $1,000 $500 $500 $2,000 $2,000 $3,000 $1,000 $2,000 $0 $1,000 $2,000 $500 $2,000 $1,000 $1,000 $1,000 $0 $0

0% 4% 2% 8% 0% 2% -5% 2% 0% 4% 9% 0% 2% 2% 0% 9% 2% 2% 2% 5% 2% 5% 2% 2% 10% 10% 16% 5% 10% 0% 5% 11% 3% 11% 5% 5% 5% 0% 0%

Billy Wright: Before the Golden AgeSince this auction begins with Action Comics #1 (June, 1938), the comic book that started the Golden Age, we thought the 38 comics in the Billy Wright Collection that pre-date that classic early issue were worthy of special mention. All are offered in this catalog. They are:

New Comics #2 (January 1936)

More Fun Comics #13 (September 1936) , 24, 25, 31

Funny Picture Stories #1 Star Comics V1#2 (April (November 1936) 1937), V1#6, V1#11, V1#12

Funny Pages V1#11 (June 1937), V2#6, V2#7

Star Ranger #4 (June 1937), 5, 6, 7, 9, 12

Detective Comics #6 (August 1937), 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 14 and 15

New Adventure Comics #18 (August 1937), 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, and 25

Feature Books (Dick Tracy) #4 (August 1937), 6, and 9

Cowboy Comics #13 (May 1938)

HerITaGe auCTIoNS INTroDuCeS THe

Billy WrightSignature Auction # 7054 | lots 91001 - 91227A 19.5% Buyer's Premium ($14 minimum) Will Be Added To All Lots

Billy Wright

C o l l e Ct i o n

ColleCtion

To view full descriptions, enlargeable images and bid online, visit HA.com/7054

February 22-24, 201212:00PMNew york

DC ComiCS

THE MOST IMPORTANT COMIC BOOK EVER PUBLISHED91001 Action Comics #1 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1938) CGC GD/VG 3.0 Off-white to white pages. The most important comic book ever published was Overstreets note about this issue some years ago, and weve never heard anyone nominate any other comic! Now that the best copies of this book are considered seven-figure items, many are looking for a solid (yet unrestored) lower-grade copy. Not only does this fill that bill, we hasten to add that its being offered without a reserve. This is the first appearance of Superman, and its the comic that started the Golden Age. If you browse the rest of the Billy Wright collection in this catalog youll see the difference between the 1936-37 comics offered and the comics that came later. Superman spawned many imitators (again many of which can be seen on these pages), and the characters runaway success established DC as one of the top publishers, a status it has never lost. This first Superman story, written by Jerry Siegel and drawn by Joe Shuster, also briefly tells the origin of the character. Given the price of an Action #1, the key factor is how well the comic presents in the holder. Some of the copies In this grade range that have come on the market have had a defect such as being hole-punched, having a large missing chunk, or being water-stained. No such glaring defect hampers this solid copy. The spine of the book will no doubt be the topic of some discussion, so well note that this copy has a 1 spine split at the top and a 3.75 spine split at the bottom. While the latter extends past the bottom staple, note that the back cover is attached to that bottom staple. That aside, we think youll agree the copy has more than enough pluses to bestow serious bragging rights upon the winning bidder. Overstreet 2011 GD 2.0 value = $90,000; VG 4.0 value = $180,000. CGC census 1/12: 4 in 3.0, 21 higher.

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Session One, Auction #7054 | Wednesday, February 22, 2012 | 12:00PM ET

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91003 Action Comics #3 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1938) CGC VG+ 4.5 Off-white to white pages. This is just the fourth copy weve ever offered, and the highest-graded of the bunch. Its been six years since weve offered a copy in any condition! Overstreets scarce rating and Gerbers 8 (rare) rating certainly jibe with our experience here. The third appearance of Superman, this is currently #31 on Overstreets list of the top Golden Age books. The cover art is by Leo OMealia. CGC notes, 2 pieces of tape on interior cover. Overstreet 2011 VG 4.0 value = $7,058. CGC census 1/12: 3 in 4.5, 2 higher.

91002 Action Comics #2 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1938) CGC VG/ FN 5.0 White pages. The second appearance of Superman, this is one of the 15 most valuable comics in the hobby in its own right. Unrestored copies seldom turn up, and when they do they tend to have significant staining or foxing. This copy has only the general wear commensurate with the grade, and the page quality is a major plus. Weve only seen half as many of these as we have Action #1s, making this an attractive buy at a tenth of the price (or less) the #1 is likely to sell for. Obviously Superman didnt make the issues cover, but this was before DC had caught on to the fact that the Man of Tomorrow was the breakout character. Still, weve seen this elegant illustration by Leo OMealia show up on collectors alltime favorite covers lists. Overstreet 2011 VG 4.0 value = $11,176; FN 6.0 value = $16,764. CGC census 1/12: 5 in 5.0, 4 higher. 91004 Action Comics #5 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1938) CGC VG+ 4.5 Off-white to white pages. One of Overstreets Top 50 Golden Age books, this is tougher to find than Action #1! Superman didnt make the cover of his fifth appearance. While this book is fairly low-grade owing to spine and back-cover issues, the front cover presents very well, and as the census info below indicates, there are not many better ones known to the hobby. Leo OMealia is the cover artist. Overstreet 2011 VG 4.0 value = $4,000. CGC census 1/12: 3 in 4.5, 7 higher.

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Billy Wright

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91005 Action Comics #6 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1938) CGC VF+ 8.5 Off-white to white pages. This is the only copy graded above 7.0 to date, and one of just three graded above 6.0! Were talking about one of Overstreets top 50 Golden Age comics. This very early Superman adventure (the Man of Tomorrows sixth appearance) also has the debut of an unnamed office boy, who according to Overstreet as well as DCs own Whos Who is none other than Jimmy Olsen. Thats a pretty important debut in its own right, considering that Supermans Pal later starred in his own comic that ran for twenty years! Wed be remiss if we didnt note that this may be DCs first-ever gorilla cover a theme the publisher would return to over and over in later decades, to the delight of many fans including us. Leo OMealia is the cover artist. Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $15,000; VF/NM 9.0 value = $24,500. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 8.5, none higher.Session One, Auction #7054 | Wednesday, February 22, 2012 | 12:00PM ET

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91006 Action Comics #8 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1939) CGC VG- 3.5 White pages. A difficult book to find in any grade. Supermans first use of super-hearing was in this issue. Fred Guardineer cover art. CGC notes, 3 pieces of tape on interior cover. Overstreet 2011 VG 4.0 value = $2,588. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 3.5, 2 higher.

91007 Action Comics #9 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1939) CGC VG/FN 5.0 Off-white to white pages. This issue is so tough that the copy offered here is one of just two graded above VG- 3.5! Just to illustrate the strong demand for this issue: Heritage sold the only higher-graded copy (7.0) in 2008, when it fetched $19,120 or quadruple the Guide value at the time! This was just the second cover ever to mention Supermans name (#7 being the first, even #1 did not have his name)! That shows that by this time, eight months after #1, DC had an early inkling that Superman was the character who was selling this anthology series. The cover illustration is by Fred Guardineer. Overstreet 2011 VG 4.0 value = $2,588; FN 6.0 value = $3,882. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 5.0, 1 higher.

91008 Action Comics #11 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1939) CGC GD/VG 3.0 Off-white to white pages. Just the fourth cover of the series to show Supermans name. Fred Guardineer cover and art. CGC notes, 3 pieces of tape on interior cover. Overstreet 2011 GD 2.0 value = $735; VG 4.0 value = $1,470. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 3.0, 12 higher.

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91009 Action Comics #12 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1939) CGC GD+ 2.5 Off-white to white pages. This is just the fifth copy weve offered, and also the best copy weve offered, which should tell you something about how tough these are to find in anything but the lowest grades! This is from before Superman was the permanent cover feature here, that honor went to Zatara, drawn by Fred Guardineer. CGC notes, Tape on entire spine of interior cover. Overstreet 2011 GD 2.0 value = $824. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 2.5, 5 higher.

91010 Action Comics #13 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1939) CGC VG/FN 5.0 Off-white to white pages. The fourth Superman cover appearance. The scarcity of this book is very underrated in fact, this is actually the first complete copy of #13 Heritage has ever offered (for comparisons sake, we have sold fourteen Action #1s in that time)! Issues #1, 7, and 10 were the only previous Superman covers, and of course the character did not become the permanent cover star until #19. Remember that the sight of a man stopping a train, commonplace in comics in years to come, was brand new at the time! One of Overstreets top 100 Golden Age books. Overstreet 2011 VG 4.0 value = $3,530; FN 6.0 value = $5,295. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 5.0, 5 higher.

91011 Action Comics #14 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1939) CGC VF+ 8.5 Off-white to white pages. The highest-graded copy of an early Action is a marquee comic in anyones book! The next-highest copies are graded 7.5. This ones from the era before Superman became the permanent cover feature, its the second and last cover to showcase Zatara the magician. Fred Guardineer cover art. Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $5,513; VF/NM 9.0 value = $9,007. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 8.5, none higher.


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91012 Action Comics #15 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1939) CGC FN/ VF 7.0 Off-white to white pages. The fifth Superman cover, this issue is somewhat of a bargain in our eyes, though as the best copy weve ever offered, the final price of this one might put that statement to the lie! The issue date of 8/39, two months before Marvel Comics #1, is noteworthy. Overstreet 2011 FN 6.0 value = $3,354; VF 8.0 value = $8,385. CGC census 1/12: 3 in 7.0, 2 higher.

91014 Action Comics #19 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1939) CGC VF7.5 Off-white to white pages. Easily the best copy weve ever sold of this early Superman outing. This issue actually marked the run of consecutive Superman covers that continued all the way to the present day. Joe Shuster cover. Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $6,398. CGC census 1/12: 2 in 7.5, 2 higher.

91013 Action Comics #18 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1939) CGC FN 6.0 Off-white to white pages. The last non-Superman cover of the series. Cover art by Fred Guardineer. Overstreet 2011 FN 6.0 value = $1,554. CGC census 1/12: 3 in 6.0, 4 higher.

91015 Action Comics #23 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC FN+ 6.5 White pages. Two major firsts here: the first appearance of Lex Luthor (who appears with red hair) and the first mention of the Daily Planet. A first of a different kind: this is the first copy certified white pages that Heritage has offered. Joe Shuster cover and art. Overstreet 2011 FN 6.0 value = $2,838; VF 8.0 value = $6,906. CGC census 1/12: 4 in 6.5, 6 higher.

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91016 Action Comics #24 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC FN/VF 7.0 Off-white to white pages. This one doesnt often turn up in mid grade or better. Clark Kents employer is called the Daily Planet for the first time here, previously it was the Daily Star. Joe Shuster cover art. Overstreet 2011 FN 6.0 value = $1,269; VF 8.0 value = $2,938. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 7.0, 5 higher.

91017 Action Comics #26 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC FN+ 6.5 Off-white to white pages. Superman cover by Wayne Boring. CGC notes, Tape stain on cover. Overstreet 2011 FN 6.0 value = $1,098; VF 8.0 value = $2,562. CGC census 1/12: 3 in 6.5, 7 higher. 91019 Action Comics #29 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC NM 9.4 Off-white to white pages. This is the highest-graded copy by a wide margin (the runner-up being 8.0). Its wonderful to see a high-grade copy of this early Lois Lane cover appearance Loiss very first according to Overstreet (if you tend to give issues #23, 24, or 27 the nod, youre in luck, as those issues are offered in this same auction). Whats clearcut is that the copy shown here is the best one ever offered for public sale. Superman cover by Wayne Boring. Overstreet 2011 NM- 9.2 value = $7,000. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 9.4, none higher.

91018 Action Comics #27 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC VF- 7.5 Off-white to white pages. Superman cover by Paul Cassidy. Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $2,562. CGC census 1/12: 2 in 7.5, 2 higher.

91020 Action Comics #30 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC VF 8.0 Off-white to white pages. Superman cover. Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $2,562. CGC census 1/12: 3 in 8.0, 8 higher.


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91021 Action Comics #31 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC NM9.2 Off-white to white pages. The best copy Heritage has ever offered of this Superman outing. The firing squad cover is credited to Joe Shuster and Wayne Boring. Overstreet 2011 NM- 9.2 value = $4,000. CGC census 1/12: 2 in 9.2, 1 higher.

91023 Action Comics #33 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1941) CGC VF 8.0 White pages. Superman cover by Wayne Boring. Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $1,694. CGC census 1/12: 4 in 8.0, none higher.

91022 Action Comics #32 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1941) CGC VF7.5 White pages. Fred Ray electric chair cover. A side note: CGC notes the first appearance of the Krypto Ray Gun. This was a projector device in the shape of a gun, and its presence in the story was early product placement, tying in with a toy released around the same time. Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $1,651. CGC census 1/12: 4 in 7.5, 1 higher.

91024 Action Comics #34 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1941) CGC VF/ NM 9.0 White pages. Fred Ray cover art featuring Superman. Overstreet 2011 VF/NM 9.0 value = $2,757; NM- 9.2 value = $3,900. CGC census 1/12: 3 in 9.0, 2 higher.

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91025 Action Comics #36 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1941) CGC VF+ 8.5 White pages. Classic robot cover by Fred Ray. Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $1,651; VF/NM 9.0 value = $2,826. CGC census 1/12: 2 in 8.5, 2 higher.

91027 Action Comics #39 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1941) CGC VF 8.0 Off-white to white pages. The midnight sky looks fantastic on this copy! Early German war cover by Fred Ray. Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $1,613. CGC census 1/12: 2 in 8.0, 2 higher.

91028 Action Comics #40 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1941) CGC VF+ 8.5 Off-white to white pages. First appearance of Star Spangled Kid and Stripesy. Superman cover by Fred Ray. Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $1,651; VF/NM 9.0 value = $2,826. CGC census 1/12: 2 in 8.5, 1 higher.

91026 Action Comics #37 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1941) CGC NM 9.4 White pages. The highest-graded copy by a tidy margin, with the runner-up being the Larson copy at 9.0. Look at the green block at the top of this one and youll be a believer! The Superman cover is by Fred Ray. This issue is broken out in Overstreet thanks to having the origin of DC long-timer Congo Bill. Overstreet 2011 NM- 9.2 value = $3,950. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 9.4, none higher.


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91029 Adventure Comics #40 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1939) CGC VF 8.0 White pages. This is one of the fifteen most valuable comic book issues in the hobby, and when we first laid eyes on this copy before it was certified, we knew it would be the highest-graded copy. Not only is this one of the toughest keys to find in high grade, its one of the toughest, period (compare the 14 unrestored copies that have been certified to the 32 Action #1s). Its also notable that this book is missing from most of the big-name pedigree collections to the best of our knowledge the only other pedigree copy that has been certified is the Mile High copy, which unfortunately is a restored book. The debut of the Sandman in Adventure, this is the first superhero issue of one of DCs earliest and longest-running books. Creig Flessels famous cover art only adds to the appeal. This is certainly the first copy weve offered to be certified white pages. We think this copys grade will stand up to scrutiny, and as with other books from this collection, the absence of any cover marking is a major plus. Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $47,000. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 8.0, none higher.

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91032 Adventure Comics #53 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC VF/ NM 9.0 White pages. One of just two copies graded above 8.0 to date. Bernard Baily cover featuring the Hour-Man. Overstreet 2011 VF/NM 9.0 value = $2,826; NM- 9.2 value = $4,000. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 9.0, 1 higher.

91033 Adventure Comics #54 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC VF 8.0 Off-white to white pages. Hour Man and Sandman features. Cover by Bernard Baily. Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $1,651. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 8.0, 3 higher.

91030 Adventure Comics #41 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1939) CGC VF+ 8.5 Off-white to white pages. One of only two copies graded above 6.5. The Sandman, who first appeared in the previous issue, returns. Fantastic shark cover by Leo OMealia. Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $4,350; VF/NM 9.0 value = $7,675. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 8.5, 1 higher.

91034 Adventure Comics #55 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC VF+ 8.5 Off-white to white pages. Bernard Baily cover featuring the Hour-Man. Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $1,651; VF/NM 9.0 value = $2,826. CGC census 1/12: 3 in 8.5, 1 higher.

91031 Adventure Comics #52 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC NM- 9.2 Off-white to white pages. Only the esteemed Mile High copy has been graded higher than this one. This is the third cover appearance of the Hourman, with cover art by Bernard Baily. The high issue number belies how early this one is: it has the same cover date as All-American #16 (which is offered in this same auction). Overstreet 2011 NM- 9.2 value = $4,000. CGC census 1/12: 2 in 9.2, 1 higher.

91035 Adventure Comics #61 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1941) CGC FN+ 6.5 White pages. Starman made his first appearance here, bumping Sandman and the Hour-Man off of the Adventure cover where they had been alternating top billing. Only a couple of copies have been graded higher (and note that the Mile High copy of #61 is a restored book). Dont let the high issue number fool you its a pretty early book, preceding the likes of Green Lantern #1 and All-Star #8. Jack Burnley cover art. Overstreet 2011 FN 6.0 value = $3,600; VF 8.0 value = $9,000. CGC census 1/12: 2 in 6.5, 2 higher.Session One, Auction #7054 | Wednesday, February 22, 2012 | 12:00PM ET

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ONE OF THE FINEST KNOWN COPIES OF GREEN LANTERNS DEBUT

91036 All-American Comics #16 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC VF 8.0 Off-white to white pages. The first appearance of Green Lantern is one of the top five comic issues in the hobby! This is a book thats hard to come by in unrestored condition in any grade, and this is one of just two copies that have earned a grade higher than FN 6.0. In fact, inspect this copy closely and you might like it even more than the 8.0 grade would indicate. Foxing in some areas is the only noteworthy defect we can even see the book is attached firmly onto the staples and there is no spine split. Nor is there any rust on the staples. The Green Lantern (as he was originally known) became a breakout character. Overstreet noted, The ancient fable of the magic lamp was transformed into a modern and more accessible, more mysterious form. The Green Lanterns chant became a staple of school boy mythology. Jim Steranko gave some credit for the strips popularity to the lantern chant as well: The ceremony of the ring charging its power by the god-like glow of the lantern was almost religious in content. The character was created by Martin Nodell, and the cover art for the first issue was by Sheldon Moldoff. Is this the most desirable book in the auction? We leave that decision to the bidders, but while Action #1 and Detective #27 have seen high-profile copies come to auction in recent years, we cant remember the last time a significant copy of this sought-after issue was sold publicly. Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $130,000. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 8.0, 1 higher.

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91037 All-American Comics #17 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC VF/NM 9.0 Off-white to white pages. The second Green Lantern appearance is one of Overstreets Top 100 Golden Age books in its own right, so were thrilled to be offering the highest-graded copy! And this is actually a tougher book to find than #16. Sheldon Moldoff cover and art. Overstreet 2011 VF/NM 9.0 value = $15,180; NM- 9.2 value = $22,000. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 9.0, none higher.

91038 All-American Comics #18 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC VF- 7.5 Off-white to white pages. By far the best copy weve seen of a book thats tough to find in any grade! In the ten years Heritage has been auctioning comics we had seen just two copies previously, the best being a sorry GD+. Like so many other comics in this collection, this is ranked among Overstreets top 100 Golden Age books. The scarcity is just one part of the appeal another is that its just the third appearance of Green Lantern (with his first two also being offered in this auction). It also has the original Atom in one panel, pre-dating that characters first full appearance in the next issue. And the Sheldon Moldoff cover has a delightful New York Worlds Fair scene, only adding to the collectibilty. And while a 7.5 copy is major news, we would go so far as to say the book presents better than that grade by all means have a look for yourself. Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $8,740. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 7.5, none higher.

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Billy Wright91040 All-American Comics #20 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC VF+ 8.5 Offwhite to white pages. Not only the highestgraded copy, this is the only one graded above 7.5 to date. Its one of the earliest appearances of Green Lantern, who debuted in #16. Its also the first appearance of the original Red Tornado, a comic relief character who wore an upside-down pot on her head (and yes, we did say her) and became a regular in this title. Also, this issue has the second appearance of the Atom, and the first time that character donned a costume. Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $3,950; VF/NM 9.0 value = $6,975. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 8.5, none higher.

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91039 All-American Comics #19 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC VF+ 8.5 Off-white pages. This is the only copy graded above 7.0 as of this writing. This is one of Overstreets Top 50 Golden Age books in no small part because of its scarcity we hadnt offered a copy in any grade in six years. Its the first appearance of the original Atom and also one of the earliest Green Lantern appearances. Even given some of the outstanding collections weve brought to market over the years, a run of All-American #16-20 is unheard-of, no matter what the grade, and we couldnt be prouder to be offering one here. Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $14,600; VF/NM 9.0 value = $26,800. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 8.5, none higher.

91041 All Star Comics #1 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC Qualified VF 8.0 Off-white to white pages. Flash, Hawkman, Spectre, Sandman, Hourman, and Ultra-Man all have stories in this inaugural issue of the fan-favorite title. CGC notes, Large coupon missing from 25th page, does not affect story. Incomplete. Overstreet 2011 GD 2.0 value = $1,185; VG 4.0 value = $2,370; FN 6.0 value = $3,555; VF 8.0 value = $8,900.

91042 All Star Comics #2 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC Qualified VF/NM 9.0 Off-white to white pages. In terms of eye appeal this is the best copy we have seen. For comparisons sake, the top blue-label copies on CGCs census are a single 9.2 and a single 8.5. The cover features figure swipes of the Flash (from Flash Comics #8), and the Spectre (swiped from a story in All Star Comics #1), and then theres the Green Lantern, who is swiped from the All-American Comics #16 cover which in turn was swiped from an Alex Raymond Flash Gordon Sunday! CGC notes, Large coupon missing from 25th page, does not affect story. Incomplete. Overstreet 2011 GD 2.0 value = $508; VG 4.0 value = $1,016; FN 6.0 value = $1,524; VF 8.0 value = $3,708; VF/NM 9.0 value = $6,554.


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91043 All Star Comics #3 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC VF+ 8.5 Off-white to white pages. An unrestored high-grade copy of All Star #3 is very seldom offered for sale. A key comic in anyones book, this ranks #16 on Overstreets top Golden Age list. In some quarters this issue is held in even higher esteem, as the Justice Society of America, which made its first appearance here, enjoyed a fanatical following in its heyday and thereafter. This isnt just the first appearance of this superhero group, its the first appearance of any superhero group! A breakthrough concept, second in importance only to the creation of the super hero is how Overstreet once summarized the significance of this issue. Some have even advanced the theory that the concept was unprecedented in all of fiction, as even the Knights of the Round Table didnt hold meetings before joining to vanquish a common opponent! The cover image is one of the most famous in the history of comics, and its been imitated and paid homage to on many occasions (E. E. Hibbard is generally credited with the cover art). Shown here are the Atom (that characters first appearance on any comic cover), the Sandman, the Spectre, the Flash, Hawkman, Dr. Fate, Green Lantern, and the Hour-Man. Paul Levitzs recent book noted that some point to the end of the All Star series in 1951 as the end of the Golden Age, a strong testament to the influence of this title. Many books could be written about All Star and the Justice Society (in fact Roy Thomas alone has written four books on the subject!), so we will get to the topic on everyones mind: what is this comic worth? GPAnalysis notes a 2007 sale of a 7.0 copy (not at Heritage) for $18,500, and of course we auctioned the 9.6 Mile High copy for $126,500 back in 2002, or years before six-figure prices for major key books became relatively commonplace. That makes the copy offered here tough to figure, and should make for an interesting few minutes when this lot is called. Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $34,000; VF/NM 9.0 value = $62,000. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 8.5, 2 higher.

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91045 All Star Comics #5 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1941) CGC VF/ NM 9.0 White pages. An unforgiving black cover is this issues curse... but its a blessing when a high-grade copy is what you have in hand. In addition to being just the third Justice Society issue, this book is noteworthy for the moment that Shiera Sanders dons Hawkmans spare costume to become Hawkwoman of course, Shiera is the future Hawkgirl, and this may well be the first comic book appearance of a costumed superheroine. Howard Purcell is credited with the cover art. Overstreet 2011 VF/NM 9.0 value = $5,925; NM- 9.2 value = $8,500. CGC census 1/12: 3 in 9.0, 4 higher.

91044 All Star Comics #4 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1941) CGC NM- 9.2 White pages. Its the first adventure of the Justice Society of America! If you ask how that could be given that they first appeared in #3, its because they spent #3 sitting around that famous meeting table telling stories. Here, they spring into action. E. E. Hibbard is credited with the cover art. Overstreet 2011 NM- 9.2 value = $9,800. CGC census 1/12: 2 in 9.2, 1 higher.

91046 All Star Comics #7 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1941) CGC NM 9.4 White pages. Last but far from least in our All Star run is this striking copy, tied with the Hawkeye copy as the best CGC has certified. This issue would be the first time that Batman and Superman would appear in a story together, about a year after they shared the cover of New York Worlds Fair 1940 (also available in this auction). Justice Society cover by E. E. Hibbard. Overstreet 2011 NM- 9.2 value = $5,800. CGC census 1/12: 2 in 9.4, none higher.Session One, Auction #7054 | Wednesday, February 22, 2012 | 12:00PM ET

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SUPERB COPY OF ONE OF THE MOST DESIRABLE COMICS OF ALL

91047 Batman #1 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC VF+ 8.5 White pages. Unrestored, high-grade copies of major Golden Age keys top everyones wantlists, and this is a major key by anyones definition. Just five comics have higher Guide values (four of which are offered in this same auction), yet we wonder if top of Guide for this book should actually be higher! Despite offering more than 50 copies of this book over the years, this is just the second unrestored copy weve had that was certified white pages. The issue has the first appearances of both the Joker and Catwoman, who of course are among the very few comic book villains to have attained true household name status. Also of note is a classic (and much-imitated) cover by Bob Kane and the late Jerry Robinson. Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $100,000; VF/NM 9.0 value = $192,500. CGC census 1/12: 3 in 8.5, 3 higher.

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91048 Batman #2 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC VF+ 8.5 Off-white to white pages. One of Overstreets Top 50 Golden Age books. Of course, issue #1 is now so expensive in high grade that its out of the reach of most, so it might be time to secure #2 before this issue follows suit. Not only is this just the second appearance of both the Joker and Catwoman, its the first appearance of the name Catwoman, since this classic villainess was called the Cat in her first outing in #1. Bob Kane and Jerry Robinson are credited with the cover art. Since this meaty 64-pager had four Batman stories, kids would read it again and again, which is why most existing copies are scuffed, smudged, and spine-split. This is a superb opportunity to finally secure one in high grade. Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $12,500; VF/NM 9.0 value = $23,750. CGC census 1/12: 2 in 8.5, 2 higher.

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91051 Batman #6 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1941) CGC VF- 7.5 White pages. Bob Kane and Jerry Robinson cover and art. Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $3,750. CGC census 1/12: 6 in 7.5, 22 higher.

91049 Batman #4 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC VF+ 8.5 Offwhite to white pages. This early issue has very unforgiving red and black surfaces, hence the low number of high-grade copies. Notable events in this issue are the fourth appearance of the Joker (he was in two previous Batmans and one Detective) and the first mention of Gotham City in a Batman comic. Cover art by Bob Kane and Jerry Robinson. Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $5,920; VF/NM 9.0 value = $10,460. CGC census 1/12: 4 in 8.5, 2 higher.

91052 Batman #7 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1941) CGC NM- 9.2 White pages. One of the most recognizable covers of the series early run has never looked better than on this copy! CGCs note Batman begins working with police points out that this is still an early issue youll recall that Batman began as a mysterious vigilante-like figure. Bob Kane is the cover artist. Overstreet 2011 NM- 9.2 value = $9,500. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 9.2, none higher.

91050 Batman #5 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1941) CGC VF/NM 9.0 White pages. First appearance of the Batmobile with its bat-head front. The Bat emblem was left off of Batmans chest on this cover by Bob Kane. Overstreet 2011 VF/NM 9.0 value = $7,675; NM- 9.2 value = $11,000. CGC census 1/12: 3 in 9.0, 5 higher.


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91055 Detective Comics #6 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1937) CGC VG/FN 5.0 Offwhite pages. Speed Saunders by Creig Flessel is the cover feature of this early DC, 10 months before Action #1. Overstreet 2011 VG 4.0 value = $1,840; FN 6.0 value = $2,760. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 5.0, 3 higher.

91056 Detective Comics #7 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1937) CGC FN 6.0 Off-white to white pages. Creig Flessel cover art. This is just the fifth copy weve offered of this early issue. Overstreet 2011 FN 6.0 value = $2,760. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 6.0, 3 higher.

91053 Batman #15 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1943) CGC VF/NM 9.0 White pages. Every schoolboy knows that Batman never uses a gun, right? The fact that he does here makes this a collectible issue, and weve never seen a nicer copy. Jack Burnley cover art. Overstreet 2011 VF/NM 9.0 value = $3,849; NM- 9.2 value = $5,500. CGC census 1/12: 2 in 9.0, none higher.

91054 Boy Commandos #1 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1942) CGC VF/NM 9.0 Off-white to white pages. Only the Mile High and Vancouver copies have been graded higher than this superb specimen. Cover and art by Simon and Kirby. Overstreet 2011 VF/NM 9.0 value = $4,900; NM- 9.2 value = $7,000. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 9.0, 2 higher.

91057 Detective Comics #8 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1937) CGC VF- 7.5 Off-white pages. This shows you how early the Wright collection started: this book is one of the first 250 or so comics ever published, and pre-dated Action #1 by eight months, but when it came out, Billy Wright had already been buying DCs for 21 months! The classic cover art for this issue is credited to Creig Flessel (if the art looks familiar, its probably because it was appropriated for the oddball Atomic Comics some eight years later). Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $7,700. CGC census 1/12: 2 in 7.5, 2 higher.

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91058 Detective Comics #9 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1937) CGC VG- 3.5 Off-white pages. This is the first copy of #9 we have ever offered! Almost all of the pre-Batman Detective issues are considered tough to come by, so were thrilled to be offering a number of them here. Creig Flessel cover art. Overstreet 2011 VG 4.0 value = $1,840. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 3.5, 5 higher.

91063 Detective Comics #16 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1938) CGC FN/VF 7.0 White pages. Creig Flessel provided the cover art for this issue. The book was on the stands at the same time as Action #1, and has an ad for it inside! Overstreet 2011 FN 6.0 value = $2,160; VF 8.0 value = $3,960. CGC census 1/12: 2 in 7.0, 3 higher.

91059 Detective Comics #11 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1938) CGC VG- 3.5 Cream to offwhite pages. Creig Flessel portrayed the dapper Speed Saunders on this wonderful cover, which is one of the better covers of Detectives pre-Batman run. CGC notes, 5 pieces of tape on interior cover. Overstreet 2011 VG 4.0 value = $1,440. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 3.5, 10 higher.

91061 Detective Comics #14 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1938) CGC FN 6.0 Off-white to white pages. Heres how tough mid- to highgrade copies of this issue are: in 2001 we sold the lone 7.0 copy (in the very early days of CGC and its census), and in the ensuing 10 years no copy has come along to top it. This one comes close at least, and collectors of pre-hero Detectives have been waiting a long time for a copy this nice. Creig Flessel cover art. Overstreet 2011 FN 6.0 value = $2,160. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 6.0, 2 higher.

91060 Detective Comics #12 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1938) CGC VG/FN 5.0 Off-white pages. This pre-Action #1 issue is tough to find in any grade this is just the fifth different copy we have auctioned. Creig Flessel is the cover artist. Overstreet 2011 VG 4.0 value = $1,440; FN 6.0 value = $2,160. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 5.0, 4 higher.

91062 Detective Comics #15 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1938) CGC FN 6.0 Off-white pages. The best copy weve offered of an issue that came out a month before Action #1. In fact, the issue even contains a coming soon ad for Action #1! Superman creators Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster actually drew two stories for this issue as well. Creig Flessel cover art. Overstreet 2011 FN 6.0 value = $2,160. CGC census 1/12: 3 in 6.0, 2 higher.

91064 Detective Comics #17 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1938) CGC VF 8.0 White pages. This issue has the first appearance of Dr. Fu Manchu in Detective. Creig Flessel is the cover artist. Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $3,960. CGC census 1/12: 2 in 8.0, 1 higher.


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91067 Detective Comics #22 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1938) CGC FN/VF 7.0 Off-white to white pages. This is just the second superhero cover in the history of comics! Its tied for that honor with Action #7, with of course only Action #1 coming earlier. Before Batman came along, this title had the Crimson Avenger, and this is his only cover appearance of the series (though a few hardy dissenters aver that the masked fellow on #34 is this character). Jim Chambers is the cover artist. Overstreet 2011 FN 6.0 value = $2,310; VF 8.0 value = $4,235. CGC census 1/12: 2 in 7.0, 1 higher.

91065 Detective Comics #18 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1938) CGC VF- 7.5 White pages. The cover is a classic in most anyones book. Creig Flessel is the artist, Fu Manchu the character. Unrestored copies of this issue are tough to come by, and this is the highest-graded one weve ever sold. Batman was nine months away and Superman had been in just three comics when this issue hit the stands. Fu Manchu was actually the star of a feature at this time, and the lineup of good guys included the likes of Slam Bradley (two-fisted sleuth), Speed Saunders (plainclothes cop), Buck Marshall (range-ridin detective), Bart Regan (spy), and Cosmo (the phantom of disguise). A real gem among early DCs. Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $6,325. CGC census 1/12: 2 in 7.5, 1 higher.

91068 Detective Comics #24 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1939) CGC FN- 5.5 White pages. One of the very toughest Detective issues to find, both in our opinion and that of Ernst Gerber, who gave it a scarcity rating of 8. The cover art is by Fred Guardineer, who also drew the Speed Saunders feature inside the book. Just the third copy weve ever offered, and the best one of the bunch. Overstreet 2011 FN 6.0 value = $1,740. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 5.5, 3 higher.

91066 Detective Comics #21 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1938) CGC FN+ 6.5 Off-white to white pages. Not just the highest-graded copy, this is the only one graded above 4.0! And we might as well mention that the Mile High copy of this book bears a qualified 9.0 grade thanks to a long spine split. So the Billy Wright copy is by far the best available blue-label option. Its the second appearance of the Crimson Avenger by the way. Lee OMealia cover art. Overstreet 2011 FN 6.0 value = $1,740; VF 8.0 value = $3,190. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 6.5, none higher.

91069 Detective Comics #26 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1939) CGC VG 4.0 Off-white to white pages. The title of the series accurately describes both Fred Guardineers cover and the contents... but there was this announcement at the top of a gag page: The Batman! This new thrilling adventure strip starts in the May issue of Detective Comics! Dont miss it! Overstreet 2011 VG 4.0 value = $1,140. CGC census 1/12: 2 in 4.0, 6 higher.

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A POP CULTURE PHENOMENON DEBUTS91070 Detective Comics #27 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1939) CGC FN+ 6.5 Off-white to white pages. The first appearance of Batman is currently considered the second most-valuable comic in the hobby. However, it has had the #1 spot before, and its not inconceivable that it could regain it, as Batman is a collector many prefer to Superman. Batman has certainly been more of a pop culture presence than Superman in recent years. To put the 6.5 grade in perspective, no copy has received a grade higher than 8.0 from CGC to date. The off-white to white page quality is the best page quality certification weve seen for this issue (aside from copies that owed their white pages to restoration). As with the majority of comics from this collection, this copy has no writing or marking from a newsdealer or previous owner on the cover. The other thing that struck us as we examined this copy was that Bob Kanes signature at the bottom is almost entirely visible -- most copies youll find do not have the Kane visible. When this issue was released with a May 1939 cover date, Superman was the only other superhero on the stands, save for the now-obscure likes of the Arrow and the Crimson Avenger. So its no wonder that the striking cover by Kane made a strong impact. It has taken its place as one of the most famous covers in the history of comics. Kane and writer Bill Finger (generally credited these days as a co-creator of the character) produced a hero to rival Superman without imitating the earlier character. As Jim Steranko noted, Superman had given DC its strength, but Batman gave it tone. Of course, Superman was more impressive... but Batman was more fascinating. The Bat-Man appeared in a six-page story that also introduced the character of Commissioner Gordon. The second-to-last panel revealed that this mysterious figure was in fact Bruce Wayne, introduced earlier in the story. Its a special treat to be able to offer this book as part of a Detective run, allowing the hobbyist to compare and contrast the subsequent issues with what came before! While of course not every existing comic has been CGC-certified, many of the notable Golden Age pedigree comic collections have lacked this key issue. It was notably absent among the Lamont Larson collection and the Davis Crippen D Copies, two of the few pedigree collections which began early enough to encompass this books May 1939 cover date. Overstreet 2011 FN 6.0 value = $240,000; VF 8.0 value = $600,000. CGC census 1/12: 3 in 6.5, 6 higher.

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91071 Detective Comics #28 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1939) CGC VF 8.0 Off-white to white pages. The second appearance of Batman is a book so tough to find in unrestored condition that weve only offered one in better condition than Poor in our ten years of auctioning vintage comics. While Batman obviously didnt make the cover except for a blurb, he was the lead feature in the book, indicating that DC knew they had a winner on their hands. The story of the Bat-Man (written thus inside if not on the cover) was the second and last to be signed Robt Kane. Fred Guardineer is the cover artist of this early issue, which Overstreet lists among the 50 most valuable Golden Age comic books. Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $22,500. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 8.0, 2 higher.

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91072 Detective Comics #29 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1939) CGC FN/VF 7.0 Off-white to white pages. The second-ever Batman cover is a very desirable book indeed, and its ranked among the top 20 Golden Age books by Overstreet. The cover art by Bob Kane is simply electrifying, and we would argue that Batman is more in character here than on his first appearance in #27. This is the Darknight Detective that every comic collector knows and loves! This book is seldom found in unrestored condition, and this is the best copy to be offered for public sale in the CGC era. Overstreet 2011 FN 6.0 value = $14,400; VF 8.0 value = $36,000. CGC census 1/12: 2 in 7.0, 2 higher.


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91073 Detective Comics #30 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1939) CGC VF/NM 9.0 Off-white to white pages. Batmans fourth appearance doesnt come along much in any grade, and certainly not in an unrestored high grade. Overstreet mentions the classic Batman splash panel its a grim Batman looming over the top third of the first page. In these choice early issues, the Bat-Man was a different character than he became in later years. As Rob Hughes noted, Batman was not interested in taking prisoners, rehabilitation or giving these law-breakers a second chance. Like issue #28, this one has a non-Batman cover, a fairly violent scene by Fred Guardineer. Overstreet 2011 VF/NM 9.0 value = $13,800; NM- 9.2 value = $20,000. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 9.0, 1 higher.

91074 Detective Comics #32 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1939) CGC FN+ 6.5 Off-white to white pages. The sixth appearance of Batman is unknown in high grade (the two copies above this one on CGCs census are both 7.5). The fact that Batman isnt on the cover tells you its an early issue. And indeed, the early Golden Age Batman was a bit different from the later character in some respects not only does he use a gun in #32, he shoots two villains while theyre asleep! Overstreet calls it the first time a costumed hero used a gun in comic books. Cover art by Fred Guardineer. Overstreet 2011 FN 6.0 value = $2,757; VF 8.0 value = $6,709. CGC census 1/12: 2 in 6.5, 2 higher.

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91075 Detective Comics #34 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1939) CGC VF/NM 9.0 Off-white to white pages. Its unexpected to see this book in this grade, but scrutinize our scan and we think youll agree that this copy is the real deal. As with so many of the Wright books, the fact that this one lacks any sort of cover marking is a major plus. The large logo block at the top is simply outstanding! This is the last non-Batman cover of Detective Comics. The cover art is by Creig Flessel. Overstreet 2011 VF/ NM 9.0 value = $8,718; NM- 9.2 value = $12,500. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 9.0, 1 higher.

91076 Detective Comics #35 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC VG 4.0 Off-white to white pages. One of Overstreets Top 100 Golden Age books, this is a fixture on wantlists and sells for a pretty penny in any grade as the Guide values annually scramble to catch up. So why are there so few copies that are graded higher than this VG? Its because surviving copies are almost invariably in really bad shape or restored (or both). The book is in-demand for a number of reasons. The creepy hypodermic needle cover is a favorite (note how long Batmans ears are!). Then theres the fact that its just the fifth cover appearance of the character (the previous ones being #27, 29, 31, and 33). And many remember the issues splash panel with an angry Batman holding a smoking gun... yes, we said a gun! Its been three years since weve offered a copy that wasnt restored or a beater, and plenty of demand has built up in that time. Overstreet 2011 VG 4.0 value = $5,000. CGC census 1/12: 4 in 4.0, 4 higher.Session One, Auction #7054 | Wednesday, February 22, 2012 | 12:00PM ET

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91077 Detective Comics #39 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC VF- 7.5 Off-white to white pages. Cover by Bob Kane and the late Jerry Robinson. An early appearance for both Batman and Robin, especially the latter whose world premiere was #38! Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $5,526. CGC census 1/12: 4 in 7.5, 2 higher.

91078 Detective Comics #40 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC VF/NM 9.0 Off-white pages. The first cover appearance of the Joker was right here! The Joker story that was intended for this issue was instead used in Batman #1. The issue also had the origin and first appearance of Clayface. And of course its an early outing for Robin who first appeared in #38. Bob Kane and Jerry Robinson cover and art. Overstreet 2011 VF/ NM 9.0 value = $11,506; NM- 9.2 value = $16,500. CGC census 1/12: 3 in 9.0, 1 higher.

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91079 Detective Comics #41 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC VF+ 8.5 Off-white to white pages. Robins first solo story. Bob Kane cover and art. Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $2,918; VF/NM 9.0 value = $5,109. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 8.5, 3 higher.

91081 Detective Comics #43 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC NM 9.4 White pages. The only copy graded above 8.0 by CGC to date do we have your attention, Batman collectors? Weve never seen a copy that comes close to this one. The cover art is credited to Bob Kane and the late Jerry Robinson. Overstreet 2011 NM- 9.2 value = $5,400. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 9.4, none higher.

91080 Detective Comics #42 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC VF+ 8.5 Off-white to white pages. Easily the best copy weve sold of this early Robin appearance. The uniform blue of Batmans costume has never looked better than here! Bob Kane and Jerry Robinson cover art. Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $2,163; VF/NM 9.0 value = $3,782. CGC census 1/12: 2 in 8.5, 1 higher.

91082 Detective Comics #44 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC NM 9.4 Off-white to white pages. Easily the best copy weve offered of this one. Batman cover by Bob Kane and Jerry Robinson. Overstreet 2011 NM- 9.2 value = $5,400. CGC census 1/12: 3 in 9.4, none higher.


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91083 Detective Comics #45 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC NM- 9.2 White pages. The first Joker story in Detective Comics is just his third comic book appearance, and his fourth story overall (the Joker appeared in two stories in Batman #1). Bob Kane cover and art. Overstreet 2011 NM- 9.2 value = $7,700. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 9.2, 1 higher.

91086 Flash Comics #2 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC FN/VF 7.0 Off-white to white pages. Features the first full Hawkman cover. The second appearance of both the Flash and Hawkman. Dennis Neville cover art. Overstreet 2011 FN 6.0 value = $2,514; VF 8.0 value = $6,117. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 7.0, 4 higher.

91084 Detective Comics #52 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1941) CGC VF 8.0 Off-white to white pages. Batman cover by Bob Kane. Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $1,402. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 8.0, 4 higher.

91085 Detective Comics #80 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1943) CGC VF+ 8.5 Off-white to white pages. One of the most remarkable aspects of this collection is the way Billy Wrights purchases were almost exclusively comics that became highly collectible later. This one was picked up a couple of years after he stopped buying comics regularly and of course its a standout issue with a Two-Face cover and story. Bob Kane and Jerry Robinson cover art. Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $1,003; VF/NM 9.0 value = $1,727. CGC census 1/12: 3 in 8.5, 5 higher.

91087 Flash Comics #3 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC VF 8.0 White pages. The Flash and Hawkman were the breakout stars of the book, but these anthology titles needed a while to settle on their stars. Thus, Cliff Cornwall got his one and only cover. Sheldon Moldoff is the artist. Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $3,950. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 8.0, 2 higher.

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91090 Flash Comics #8 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC Qualified VF+ 8.5 White pages. For comparisons sake, the top bluelabel copies on CGCs census are four copies tied at 8.5. Classic Sheldon Moldoff Flash cover. CGC notes, Coupon missing from 28th page, does not affect story. (2 pieces of tape on 28th page). Incomplete. Overstreet 2011 GD 2.0 value=$354; VG 4.0 value= $708; FN 6.0 value= $1,062; VF 8.0 value = $2,478; VF/NM 9.0 value = $4,339. CGC census 1/12: 4 in 8.5, none higher.

91088 Flash Comics #6 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC VF- 7.5 White pages. This is one of just two copies graded above 6.0! Amazingly, this is just the second Flash cover for the covers of issues #2-5 our hero took a backseat to Hawkman, Cliff Cornwall, the Whip, and the King, respectively. E. E. Hibbard cover art. Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $4,263. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 7.5, 1 higher.

91091 Flash Comics #9 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC NM 9.4 Off-white to white pages. Only the Mile High copy has been graded higher than this one, and its worth noting that CGC has certified just nine copies in any grade. We always loved Sheldon Moldoffs lush inking when he drew the wings of Hawkman, never more impressively than here. Overstreet 2011 NM- 9.2 value = $6,400. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 9.4, 1 higher.

91089 Flash Comics #7 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC VF 8.0 Off-white to white pages. This is the second Hawkman cover, the first being issue #2, also offered in this section. But this time hes drawn by Sheldon Moldoff, who brought a distinctive look to the character. Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $4,146. CGC census 1/12: 2 in 8.0, 5 higher.


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91094 Flash Comics #12 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC NM- 9.2 White pages. Look how great the green cover background looks here! Only the Mile High copy has been graded higher to date. E. E. Hibbard cover art. Overstreet 2011 NM- 9.2 value = $3,700. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 9.2, 1 higher.

91095 More Fun Comics #32 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1938) CGC FN 6.0 Off-white to white pages. Just the fourth copy weve ever offered. Published the same month as Action #1, and has an ad for it on the inside front cover. As an aside, looking through the early New Fun/More Fun and New Comics/ New Adventure issues offered in this catalog, its striking how many of the covers evoke Tom Sawyer or Huckleberry Finn. This scene could certainly pass for something from Mark Twain as well. Vin Sullivan is the cover artist. Overstreet 2011 FN 6.0 value = $750. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 6.0, 1 higher.

91092 Flash Comics #10 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC NM/ MT 9.8 Off-white to white pages. How unusual is it to find a 9.8 copy of a book like this? Well, of the entire 104-issue 1940-1949 run of this series, just seven copies total have made it to 9.8, and this is the earliest of the bunch. Sheldon Moldoff cover art. Overstreet 2011 NM- 9.2 value = $6,400. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 9.8, none higher.

91096 More Fun Comics #38 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1938) CGC VF/NM 9.0 Offwhite to white pages. This is one of just two copies graded above 4.0! Early More Funs are notoriously tough, and this ones 12/38 cover date puts it earlier than Detective #27 and before many Golden Age publishers had even begun publishing. Creig Flessel cover. Overstreet 2011 VF/NM 9.0 value = $2,088; NM- 9.2 value = $2,800. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 9.0, 1 higher.

91097 More Fun Comics #53 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC GD 2.0 Off-white to white pages. Currently #21 on Overstreets Top 100 Golden Age books list. The second appearance of the Spectre is here, the first time in a story that hes in costume. Despite the modest grade, note how few copies have been graded higher. Bernard Baily created one of his most famous covers for the issue (a bondage cover). CGC notes, 3 pieces of tape on interior cover. Tape stains on spine. Overstreet 2011 GD 2.0 value = $3,250. CGC census 1/12: 2 in 2.0, 8 higher. 91093 Flash Comics #11 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC NM9.2 Off-white to white pages. Tied with the Mile High copy at the top of CGCs census. Sheldon Moldoff gorilla cover. Overstreet 2011 NM- 9.2 value = $3,700. CGC census 1/12: 2 in 9.2, none higher.

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91098 More Fun Comics #54 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC VF/NM 9.0 White pages. One of Overstreets 100 most valuable Golden Age books, this one has a classic cover featuring the Spectre, possibly the best cover of the run. The Spectre is as huge as he is frightening on this one. Its a war cover of sorts, yet the Spectre doesnt take a side, seeming to be above such things. Gerber calls the book scarce. Bernard Baily cover art. Overstreet 2011 VF/NM 9.0 value = $23,563; NM- 9.2 value = $34,000. CGC census 1/12: 2 in 9.0, 2 higher.


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91099 More Fun Comics #55 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC VF- 7.5 White pages. The first appearance of Dr. Fate. Its been five years since weve offered this issue in any grade, so we can see why both Overstreet and Gerber gave it the designation scarce. This issue guides at one-quarter the price of the Spectres debut in #52, yet its no easier to find in high grade than #52 is! Of course, its also one of the earliest Spectre outings, drawn by Bernard Baily who also did the cover art. Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $12,750. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 7.5, 2 higher.

91101 More Fun Comics #57 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC NM- 9.2 Off-white to white pages. Only the Nova Scotia copy (9.4 has been graded higher), and unlike that copy, this one (like most Billy Wright books) has no writing on the cover. Its a strong showcase for Bernard Bailys cover featuring the Spectre, an intimidating superhero indeed. Overstreet 2011 NM- 9.2 value = $8,000. CGC census 1/12: 2 in 9.2, 1 higher.

91100 More Fun Comics #56 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC VF+ 8.5 White pages. This is one of the most valuable issues of this titles run, thanks largely to the classic cover. This is the first cover appearance of Dr. Fate, his second appearance overall. This issue also has the first appearance of Congo Bill, who was an Action Comics regular for many years and also briefly had his own series. Howard Sherman is credited with the unusual cover art. When Comic Book Marketplace asked experts to rank the scarcity of More Fun issues, this was the only one mentioned by four of the five experts. Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $6,117; VF/NM 9.0 value = $10,809. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 8.5, 2 higher.

91102 More Fun Comics #58 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC NM 9.4 Off-white to white pages. Tying the Mile High copy for highestgraded on a book like this should make the most hardened skeptic take this new pedigree seriously. This book is tough in any grade with just 7 unrestored copies on CGCs census in total! Incidentally this has the same page quality as the Mile High. Also, while the Mile High has a penciled code on the logo, this copy has no marking. Just sayin. Spectre cover by Bernard Baily. Overstreet 2011 NM- 9.2 value = $8,000. CGC census 1/12: 2 in 9.4, none higher.

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Billy Wright91105 More Fun Comics #61 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC VF+ 8.5 White pages. Its been five years since we last offered this book in any grade. Bizarre cover art by Howard Sherman, featuring Dr. Fate. Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $2,877; VF/NM 9.0 value = $5,039. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 8.5, 2 higher.

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91103 More Fun Comics #59 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC VF+ 8.5 Off-white pages. Only the Larson and Mile High copies have been graded higher, and we think this copy actually compares favorably to the Larson copy (a scan of which can be found in our online archives). Spectre cover by Bernard Baily. Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $3,154; VF/ NM 9.0 value = $5,577. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 8.5, 2 higher.

91106 Movie Comics #1 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1939) CGC FN+ 6.5 White pages. Unique concept had stories told with colorized movie stills. This became the first DC title to get cancelled, and as Paul Levitz noted, comics tied to films wouldnt become a major product for decades thereafter. Overstreet 2011 FN 6.0 value = $1,098; VF 8.0 value = $2,562. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 6.5, 6 higher.

91107 New Adventure Comics #20 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1937) CGC FN/VF 7.0 Off-white to white pages. To put the 10/37 cover date in perspective: just 13 comic books came out that month from all publishers put together! By early 1940 that figure would rise to some 50 a month. Creig Flessel, whose dramatic covers are on display elsewhere in this section of the catalog, showed his humorous side here. Overstreet 2011 FN 6.0 value = $1,080; VF 8.0 value = $1,980. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 7.0, 3 higher.

91104 More Fun Comics #60 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC NM+ 9.6 Off-white to white pages. Previously the highest-graded copy of this issue was 9.2, so this 9.6 comes close to leaving us speechless (only three copies have received grades above 7.5). The Spectre has never looked more fearsome than on this cover by Bernard Baily. Overstreet 2011 NM- 9.2 value = $8,000. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 9.6, none higher.

91108 New Adventure Comics #22 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1937) CGC FN 6.0 Cream to off-white pages. Just the third copy weve ever offered of this early issue. Its a Gerber 8 and deservedly so. Creig Flessel supplied the cover art (if you cant make it out on the scan: the two kids are at the real North Pole with a letter addressed to Santa Claus!). Overstreet 2011 FN 6.0 value = $960. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 6.0, 1 higher.


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91109 New Adventure Comics #23 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1938) CGC FN- 5.5 Off-white pages. Just the second time weve offered this issue in ten years of auctioning Golden Age comics. The issue is a Gerber 8. Creig Flessel cover art. Overstreet 2011 FN 6.0 value = $810. CGC census 1/12: 2 in 5.5, 2 higher. 91110 New Comics #2 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1936) CGC GD 2.0 Offwhite to white pages. The earliest comic in the Billy Wright collection, this is just the ninth comic issue DC ever published. Its also an extremely rare issue that made Comic Book Marketplaces list of the 50 Rarest Golden Age Comic Books. In fact, that list had it tied with New Fun #2 as the rarest newsstand-distributed DCs. The fact that a 2.0 is the highest-graded unrestored copy on CGCs census says a lot about the rarity as well! New Comics eventually became Adventure Comics, and it was just DCs second series, with New Fun being the first. New Comics was just the second anthology title with original, continuing characters remember that its competition on the stands was Famous Funnies, which though significant, was an all-reprint affair. Making its first appearance in this issue was the long-running Federal Men feature, the work of Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, more than two years before Action Comics introduced their character Superman. The cover art is credited to R. B. Leffingwell. CGC notes, Moderate amount of tape on interior cover. Overstreet 2011 GD 2.0 value = $1,229. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 2.0, none higher.

91111 New York Worlds Fair Comics 1939 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1939) CGC FN5.5 White pages. One of Overstreets Top 100 Golden Age books despite not having a NMvalue listed in the Guide. This early DC, is the first full-color, non-reprint superhero annual. Superman is shown with blonde hair (he had been appearing in comics for less than a year at the time), and this comic, cover-dated 4/39, pre-dates Detective Comics #27, which explains why Batman doesnt appear here! Also, this issue has the first published appearance of the Sandman (compare with the first Sandman story in Adventure #40, offered in this same section). Despite all of this, and as collectible as the issue is now, the comic was not a strong seller when it was released owing to the unheard-of 25 cover price. Vin Sullivan and Fred Guardineer are the cover artists. Overstreet 2011 FN 6.0 value = $5,100. CGC census 1/12: 3 in 5.5, 6 higher.

91112 New York Worlds Fair Comics 1940 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1940) CGC VF- 7.5 White pages. The first white pages copy of this one weve ever offered. Its worth noting that many of the other top pedigree collections did not have a top-drawer copy of this book, for example Larson (6.0), Mile High (5.5) and Crippen D Copy (3.5). Also, while most copies weve seen (pedigree or otherwise) have had some sort of writing on the cover, this does not. This cover was the first time Batman, Robin, and Superman all appeared together, and its also the first published comic work by Jack Burnley. We believe its also the first time any of these characters were drawn by someone besides their creators (or the creators studios at any rate). Also, while the 25 Worlds Fair comic of the previous year was a flop, this one at 15 was a hit and led to the long-running Worlds Best/Worlds Finest series. Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $6,915. CGC census 1/12: 4 in 7.5, 1 higher.

91113 Star Spangled Comics #1 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1941) CGC Qualified VF/NM 9.0 Off-white pages. For comparisons sake, CGCs census for universal grades is topped by three copies at 9.0. Origin and first appearance of Tarantula. Robot cover by Hal Sherman. CGC notes, Piece out of 15th and 16th page, affects story. Incomplete. Overstreet 2011 GD 2.0 value= $503; VG 4.0 value= $1,006; FN 6.0 value= $1,509; VF 8.0 value= $3,672; VF/NM 9.0 value = $6,486; NM- 9.2 value = $9,300.

91114 Star Spangled Comics #2 Billy Wright pedigree (DC, 1941) CGC NM 9.4 Off-white pages. The only copy graded above 9.0 by CGC to date. Check out the StarSpangled Kid and his adult sidekick Stripesy, as well as their beetle-browed foe Dr. Weerd! Hal Sherman cover and art. Overstreet 2011 NM- 9.2 value = $2,550. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 9.4, none higher.

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91115 All Winners Comics #1 Billy Wright pedigree (Timely, 1941) CGC NM- 9.2 Off-white to white pages. One of Overstreets top 50 Golden Age books and its much sought-after in any grade. All of the best Timely characters are on hand: The Human Torch, Toro, Captain America, Bucky, and the Sub-Mariner are joined by the Angel and the Black Marvel. These heroes starred in individual features, however the Stan Lee-penned text feature has the first appearance of the All-Winners Squad, the first Timely/Marvel superhero group. Overstreet 2011 NM- 9.2 value = $35,000. CGC census 1/12: 3 in 9.2, 2 higher.


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91117 All Winners Comics #7 Billy Wright pedigree (Timely, 1942) CGC FN 6.0 Off-white pages. Fighting the Japanese and Germans on the same beach is a tall order! Another delightfully busy Alex Schomburg cover featuring Captain America, the Human Torch, and the Sub-Mariner. Overstreet 2011 FN 6.0 value = $852. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 6.0, 2 higher.

91116 All Winners Comics #2 Billy Wright pedigree (Timely, 1941) CGC NM- 9.2 Off-white to white pages. How could this fail to bring a smile to any Golden Age fans face? The black cover looks fantastic here, and so does the light-colored ground at the bottom which is usually easily smudgeable this is a 9.2 for a reason! And this book is a great example of Golden Age fare the art may have been crude but this patriotic cover is still stirring, and must have been irresistible to kids back then. The Human Torch, Captain America, and the Sub-Mariner scarcely need an introduction of course. But note also that the Whizzer is wearing his very early costume and making one of his first appearances close on the heels of his U.S.A. Comics debut. And this early Destroyer appearance (thats him in the striped pants) was released at the same time as that characters debut in Mystic Comics #6. Jack Binder cover art. Overstreet 2011 NM- 9.2 value = $9,500. CGC census 12/11: 2 in 9.2, none higher.

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Billy Wright

C o l l e Ct i o n

91118 Captain America Comics #2 Billy Wright pedigree (Timely, 1941) CGC NM 9.4 Off-white pages. One of Overstreets top 100 books, this is the second appearance of Captain America, but the first appearance of the Cap costume most are familiar with, including his trademark, the round shield. The classic cover is by the great Joe Simon, who just passed away a few weeks ago. As with issue #1, Adolf Hitler himself was the featured cover villain, though this was before the United States had entered World War II. As Simon noted in his autobiography, Cap was the first major comic book hero to take a political stand... as for capturing the attention of the comic book-reading public, it was natural that the adventures of our new red, white, and blue hero would have the advantage over the others who were still challenging the mad scientists or the hoodlums robbing the corner candy store. The red block at the top of the comic looks immaculate here, and this might rank with the Marvel Comics #1 as the most exciting book of the auction for the Timely fan. Overstreet 2011 NM- 9.2 value = $38,000. CGC census 1/12: 2 in 9.4, none higher.Session One, Auction #7054 | Wednesday, February 22, 2012 | 12:00PM ET

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91119 Captain America Comics #3 Billy Wright pedigree (Timely, 1941) CGC NM- 9.2 Off-white pages. We havent handled a copy even close to this one! Check out the bondage cover featuring the Red Skull and drawn by Alex Schomburg. But this issue also has an interesting distinction: the first comic book work of Stan Lee, on the text feature Captain America Foils the Traitors Revenge. Overstreet 2011 NM- 9.2 value = $30,000. CGC census 1/12: 2 in 9.2, 1 higher.

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Billy Wright91120 Captain America Comics #23 Billy Wright pedigree (Timely, 1943) CGC FN/VF 7.0 Off-white to white pages. The best copy weve ever offered of an issue that doesnt seem to come around very often. Check out the bondage cover by the underrated Syd Shores! Overstreet 2011 FN 6.0 value = $1,029; VF 8.0 value = $2,400. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 7.0, 7 higher.

C o l l e Ct i o n

91121 Daring Mystery Comics #6 Billy Wright pedigree (Timely, 1940) CGC VF/NM 9.0 Cream to off-white pages. By far the highestgraded copy weve offered. The Simon and Kirby team put their stamp on this issue, drawing the cover and writing and illustrating two stories, one introducing Marvel Boy (not the same character who briefly had his own series). Overstreet 2011 VF/NM 9.0 value = $5,925; NM- 9.2 value = $8,500. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 9.0, 1 higher.

91123 The Human Torch #3 (#2) Billy Wright pedigree (Timely, 1940) CGC NM- 9.2 Off-white pages. Youll love seeing this one in high grade! Low-grade or unrestored copies can be found, but a copy like this turns up very seldom. To explain the issue numbering: the one-shot Red Raven #1 (available elsewhere in this auction) had its numbering continued by Human Torch #2, and this was the issue after that, thus its the second issue despite being #3. Alex Schomburg cover art. Overstreet 2011 NM- 9.2 value = $10,800. CGC census 1/12: 2 in 9.2, 2 higher.

91124 The Human Torch #4 (#3) Billy Wright pedigree (Timely, 1941) CGC VF+ 8.5 Off-white pages. Alex Schomburg cover art. Overstreet 2011 VF 8.0 value = $3,278; VF/NM 9.0 value = $5,789. CGC census 1/12: 4 in 8.5, 3 higher. 91122 Daring Mystery Comics #7 Billy Wright pedigree (Timely, 1941) CGC VF/NM 9.0 Off-white to white pages. Overstreet credits the cover art to Alex Schomburg. Overstreet 2011 VF/NM 9.0 value = $4,550; NM- 9.2 value = $6,500. CGC census 1/12: 1 in 9.0, 2 higher.

91125 The Human Torch #10 Billy Wright pedigree (Timely, 1942) CGC VF+ 8.5 Off-white pages. Two years after the Human Torch and the Sub-Mariner had their famous donnybrook in Marvel Mystery #9 (offered

Heritage Auctions Rare Comics Auction Catalog 7054 Billy Wright Collection New York City

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Transcript of Heritage Auctions Rare Comics Auction Catalog 7054 Billy Wright Collection New York City