This Spring, our very own Johnny Sampson and George Gant had the pleasure of attending the prestigious Heritage Comics & Comic Books Signature® Auction; — a spectacle for collectors and illustrators alike. Here’s a detailed look at the standout pieces they witnessed:
1. The Incredible Hulk #1 – CGC 9.2 ($1 Million Estimate)
A holy grail for comic enthusiasts: the first-ever issue of The Incredible Hulk, graded 9.2, hit the auction block with a jaw-dropping $1 million valuation. This issue has long been a centerpiece of Silver Age collecting, and this high grade makes it even more covetable.
2. Calvin and Hobbes #6 – Bill Watterson-Colored ($200k Estimate)
An early original strip (#6) from the beloved Calvin and Hobbes, personally colored by Bill Watterson himself, captured headlines (and hearts) with a $200,000 estimated value. This piece highlights the charm and originality that made the strip a mainstream and iconic success.
3. John Romita Print – ($40 k Estimate)
A classic print by John Romita, famed for his dynamic Spider-Man work, drew attention at $40,000. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of Romita’s style and contribution to mainstream comic history.
4. The Amazing Spider‑Man (2011) – CGC 9.8, Signed ($48k Estimate)
Rounding out the auction’s blockbuster items was a 2011 issue of The Amazing Spider‑Man, signed by one of the artists and graded an impeccable 9.8. With a $48,000 estimate, it’s proof that modern signatures and near-pristine condition continue driving significant collector interest.
Behind the Scenes with Johnny & George
Johnny and George were particularly struck by how these pieces blend historical legacy with artistic excellence:
- Condition and Grading Matters – As Johnny noted, “Finding a Silver‑Age comic at 9.2 or higher is exceptionally rare—this Hulk #1 is basically a time capsule.”
- Creator Involvement Adds Value – George was thrilled by the Watterson-colored strip, citing, “When the original creator touches the piece, its character skyrockets.”
Their insights brought the auction to life, providing valuable perspective on what makes certain items not just expensive—but historically and artistically significant.
Why It Matters to NCS Members
Heritage Auctions continue to shape the landscape of comic art collecting. Whether your passion lies in Marvel milestones or the nostalgia of daily strips, this event offered crucial trends to note:
- Silver‑Age High-Grade Comics command serious attention and dollars.
- Original Artworks with Creator Touches (like Watterson or Romita’s coloring) are fetching sky-high prices.
- Modern Signed Copies in pristine condition remain coveted and competitive.
Final Takeaways
Heritage’s auction showed how:
- Grading remains a pivotal factor.
- Creator signatures and direct involvement significantly enhance desirability.
- The market balances classic prestige with modern collectability.
A huge thank you to Johnny and George for representing our chapter with such enthusiasm and expertise. Their eyewitness account helps us all appreciate the craft and commerce of comic art, where every page can tell a story beyond its panels.
