10 Most Valuable Comic Books From The 80s

Most Popular Comic Books From The 80s

Hey there, comic aficionados and collectors! Are you ready to take a nostalgic trip back to the era of neon colors, big hair, and groundbreaking storytelling? The 1980s weren’t just about radical fashion and iconic music; they were also a golden era for comic books, introducing some of the most legendary issues that have since turned into valuable collectibles.

The 1980s was a significant era for comic books, with many valuable and iconic issues emerging. Many of these comics contain the first appearances or origin stories of characters who have become iconic in the comic book world. For example, “Amazing Spider-Man” #300 features the first full appearance of Venom, and “New Mutants” #98 marks the first appearance of Deadpool.

Collectors highly seek after these debut appearances. Some of these comics had limited initial print runs, making them rarer and more desirable. For example, the first issue of “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” was self-published with a small print run, making it extremely rare.

The condition of the comic book plays a crucial role in its value. Well-preserved copies, especially those that have been professionally graded, can fetch higher prices. Rarity, whether due to limited print runs or simply the survival of issues in good condition over time, also enhances value.

We’re diving into the treasure trove of the “Most Valuable Comic Books From The 80s,” a journey that promises to reignite your passion for comics and maybe even reveal a hidden gem in your collection. Grab your magnifying glass and let’s explore the vibrant world of 80s comics, where each page turn is a flashback to a time of innovation and incredible artistic expression.

10 Most Valuable Comic Books From The 80s

Comic books from the 1980s have become highly sought after by collectors, especially those in mint condition or featuring significant character debuts or events. The value of a comic book varies widely based on its condition, rarity, and significance within the broader comic universe. Here are 10 of the most valuable comic books from the 1980s, though prices and demand can fluctuate:

ComicsTop Value
Amazing Spider-Man #300 (1988)$5,000+
Batman: The Dark Knight Returns #1 (1986)$500+
New Mutants #98 (1991)$2,000+
Uncanny X-Men #266 (1990)$600+
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1 (1984)$100,000+
Secret Wars #8 (1984)$400+
Watchmen #1 (1986)$300+
Albedo #2 (1984)$30,000+
Wolverine (Limited Series) #1 (1982)$600+
Daredevil #168 (1981)$1,000+
Most Valuable Comic Books From The 80s List

1. Amazing Spider-Man #300 (1988)

Amazing Spider-Man, published by Marvel Comics in 1988, is a milestone issue for several reasons and is one of the most sought-after comic books from the 1980s. The issue is particularly famous for featuring the first full appearance of Venom, a character that would become one of Spider-Man’s most popular and enduring adversaries. Venom combines an alien symbiote and its host, Eddie Brock, who blames Peter Parker/Spider-Man for his ruined career as a journalist.

Amazing Spider-Man #300 (1988)
Amazing Spider-Man #300 (1988)

This issue was written by David Michelinie with art by Todd McFarlane, who would become one of the most acclaimed Spider-Man artists ever. McFarlane’s distinctive style, marked by its detailed, web-heavy depiction of Spider-Man and dynamic character poses, was a significant part of the issue’s and the character’s appeal.

As a key issue, “Amazing Spider-Man #300” has several notable aspects:

Iconic Cover Art: The cover, featuring a prominent image of Spider-Man in a black costume swinging towards the reader, is one of the most iconic in comic book history.

Character Development: The issue explores the relationship between the symbiote and Spider-Man and why the alien entity seeks a new host in Eddie Brock.

Story Arc Conclusion: The comic wraps up the storyline involving Spider-Man’s black suit, which he originally acquired during the “Secret Wars” miniseries, leading to the birth of Venom.

Venom’s Significance: The introduction of Venom would lead to a complex relationship with Spider-Man, as both an enemy and sometimes ally, and he has since gained a significant fan following, solo comic titles, and appearances in films.

The value of “Amazing Spider-Man #300” is substantial, particularly for copies that are in high grade and have been professionally graded and slabbed by services such as the CGC. Mint condition copies, or those rated 9.8 by CGC, can sell for thousands of dollars at auction. The presence of significant defects, such as tears, creases, or discoloration, can greatly reduce the value.

The prices and interest in the issue have also been bolstered by the Venom character’s expansion into movies and continued prominence in Marvel’s comic book universe. Collectors and investors see key issues like this as major assets due to their historical and cultural importance in the comic book world.

Here’s a rough estimate of the value for “Amazing Spider-Man” #300 in different conditions:

Mint Condition (CGC 9.8 or similar grading): $3,000 to $5,000 or more for pristine copies.

Near Mint (Ungraded): $1,000 ~ $2,000.

Very Fine to Fine (Mid-Grade): $300 ~ $800.

Good to Very Good (Low-Grade): $100 to $300.

Poor Condition: $50 or more.

2. Batman: The Dark Knight Returns #1 (1986)

Batman is a groundbreaking comic book released by DC Comics in 1986. Written and drawn by Frank Miller with inks by Klaus Janson and colors by Lynn Varley, it is the first issue of a four-part miniseries that has since become one of the most influential and acclaimed comic books ever published.

Batman The Dark Knight Returns #1 (1986)
Batman: The Dark Knight Returns #1 (1986)

Plot Summary: The story is set in a dystopian near-future where 55-year-old Bruce Wayne has retired from being Batman. Gotham City has plunged deeper into decay and lawlessness in his absence. However, the rise of a brutal gang called the Mutants, and the return of Two-Face prompts Wayne to don the cowl once more. The series redefined Batman as a darker and more complex character and explored themes of urban decay, aging, and the nature of heroism.

Significance: This is credited with ushering in a new era of storytelling in comics, with its mature themes, dark tone, and sophisticated aesthetic. It’s mentioned alongside Alan Moore’s “Watchmen,” released in the same year, for its role in revolutionizing the medium.

Frank Miller’s portrayal of an older, grizzled Batman coming out of retirement was commercially successful. The miniseries is also notable for influencing Tim Burton’s “Batman” (1989) movie and Christopher Nolan’s “The Dark Knight Trilogy,” especially “The Dark Knight Rises” (2012), which borrows elements from Miller’s narrative.

Collectibility and Value: As a collectible, “The Dark Knight Returns #1” holds considerable value, particularly for well-preserved copies. First editions and copies graded by CGC, especially those with high scores (9.0 or above), can fetch significant sums on the collector’s market.

The complete set of all four issues of “The Dark Knight Returns” miniseries is particularly valuable, especially if the set includes high-grade first printings. The value of these comics has remained high due to their status as collector’s items and their impact on the comic book industry.

The book’s demand has been consistent among comic collectors and fans of the broader Batman mythos, who regard it as a seminal work in the character’s long history. Additionally, because “The Dark Knight Returns” has been reprinted numerous times, the first printings of the original 1986 release are especially prized by collectors.

Here is a rough value estimate:

Mint Condition (CGC 9.8 or similar grading): A copy that is graded CGC 9.8 or similar could be worth several hundred to over a thousand dollars, given the condition and the market demand.

Near Mint (Ungraded): $100 to $500.

Very Fine to Fine (Mid-Grade): $50 to $150.

Good to Very Good (Low-Grade): $20 to $50.

Poor Condition: $10 to $20.

3. New Mutants #98 (1991)

New Mutants, released in 1991, is renowned for the first appearance of Deadpool (Wade Wilson), a character who would become one of Marvel Comics’ most popular antiheroes. This issue, written by Fabian Nicieza and illustrated by Rob Liefeld, marks a significant moment in comic book history due to the introduction of Deadpool, known for his humor and “merc with a mouth” persona.

New Mutants #98 (1991)
New Mutants #98 (1991)

Deadpool’s unique blend of humor, breaking the fourth wall, and his complex backstory made him a standout character almost immediately. He eventually starred in his comic series and became a staple of the Marvel universe.

The issue also features the first appearances of other characters, such as Gideon and Domino (later revealed to be a character named Copycat in disguise). While these characters have a fan following and significance in the Marvel Universe, Deadpool’s debut has made “New Mutants #98” a highly sought-after issue for collectors.

The value of “New Mutants #98” is quite high, especially for copies in near-mint condition and professionally graded. Prices vary widely based on conditions and market demand. Still, high-grade CGC-rated copies can sell for thousands of dollars, with exceptional sales reaching even higher for pristine, near-perfect specimens.

Since Deadpool’s popularity has been bolstered by the successful film franchise starring Ryan Reynolds, this has had a notable effect on the comic’s value, making it one of the most coveted issues from the early ’90s.

Mint Condition (CGC 9.8 or similar grading): $1,000 to potentially over $2,000 for a pristine, CGC 9.8 graded copy.

Near Mint (Ungraded): $500 to $1,000.

Very Fine to Fine (Mid-Grade): $200 to $500.

Good to Very Good (Low-Grade): $100 to $200.

Poor Condition: $50 or more.

4. Uncanny X-Men #266 (1990)

Uncanny X-Men, published by Marvel Comics in August 1990, is famously known for the first full appearance of Gambit (Remy LeBeau). Although there was a brief cameo of Gambit in “Uncanny X-Men Annual #14,” this issue is widely considered his first substantial appearance, where he plays a significant role in the story.

Uncanny X-Men #266 (1990)
Uncanny X-Men #266 (1990)

Created by writer Chris Claremont and artist Jim Lee, Gambit is a mutant with the ability to charge objects, particularly playing cards, with kinetic energy, causing them to explode on impact. He is also known for his charm, distinctive Cajun accent, and complicated romantic relationship with Rogue.

The character quickly became a fan favorite for his antihero qualities, complex backstory, and role as a member of the X-Men. This popularity was further solidified when he became a mainstay character in the 1990s “X-Men” animated television series, which introduced the character to a broader audience.

As a collectible, “Uncanny X-Men #266” is highly valued by comic book collectors and fans of the X-Men. The value of the comic varies significantly based on its condition, with high-grade copies, especially those graded by CGC (Certified Guaranty Company), commanding the highest prices. Since the comic is from the 1990s, many copies are circulating, but mint condition issues are still in demand.

Collectors also seek out “Uncanny X-Men #266” for the iconic cover art by Andy Kubert, which features Gambit prominently. The comic’s value has been sustained due to Gambit’s enduring popularity, and it can fetch high prices on the collector’s market, particularly for near-mint to-mint copies.

Estimate Value: $20 ~ $600+

5. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1 (1984)

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, published by Mirage Studios in May 1984, is a key comic in the history of independent comics and a highly sought-after collector’s item. Created by Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird, the comic book features the origin story and the first appearance of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Leonardo, Michelangelo, Donatello, and Raphael), as well as their master Splinter and their arch-nemesis, The Shredder.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1 (1984)
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1 (1984)

Originally conceived as a parody of popular comics at the time, especially Frank Miller’s work on “Daredevil,” the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles quickly became a sensation, far surpassing their humble beginnings. The Turtles would star in animated TV series, movies, video games, and a wide range of merchandise, becoming a defining franchise of the 1980s and beyond.

Because the initial print run was small, estimated at around 3,000 copies, and because no one anticipated the future popularity of the TMNT franchise, high-grade copies of “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1” are extremely rare and valuable. Additionally, the comic book’s value is significantly higher for first printings. There were several subsequent printings due to the comic’s popularity, and while these later editions are valuable, they do not command the same premium as the first print.

The condition of the comic greatly affects its value; issues that have been well-preserved and are in near-mint condition can fetch large sums. Collectors particularly prize copies graded by reputable services like CGC, with higher grades (9.0 and above) being exceptionally desirable.

Over the years, the comic has not only remained a highly prized collector’s item but has also increased in value, driven by the lasting popularity of the franchise and the importance of the issue in comic book history. It remains one of the most valuable and sought-after comic books from the 1980s.

Estimate Value: $1,000 ~ $100,000+

6. Secret Wars #8 (1984)

Marvel Super Heroes Secret Wars #8, published in December 1984, is a significant issue in the Marvel Comics universe. That’s because it features the origin of Spider-Man’s black costume, eventually leading to Venom’s emergence. The black suit, which Spider-Man acquired during the “Secret Wars” storyline, initially seemed like a costume change but was later revealed to be a sentient alien symbiote.

Secret Wars #8 (1984)
Secret Wars #8 (1984)

The “Secret Wars” series was a landmark event, bringing together many Marvel heroes and villains to battle it on a distant planet called Battleworld at the behest of a cosmic entity known as the Beyonder. The series was a massive crossover that included many of Marvel’s most popular characters and significantly shaped the Marvel Universe going forward.

Issue #8 is especially sought after for a few key reasons:

Iconic Storyline: As part of the “Secret Wars” storyline, it’s a pivotal event in the Marvel comic book universe.

Origin of the Black Suit: This issue is the first time Spider-Man dons the black suit, which would have lasting implications for his character and the creation of Venom.

Collectibility: As a key issue, it is highly collectible and sought after by fans of Spider-Man and Venom, as well as collectors looking for significant moments in Marvel history.

In terms of value, “Secret Wars #8” isn’t typically as valuable as some of the other key issues from the 1980s, such as “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1” or “New Mutants #98.” However, it still holds considerable value, especially in high-grade conditions. Like other collectible comics, its value is greatly affected by its condition and can vary based on factors such as the print run, relevant defects, and market demand.

The issue has been reprinted multiple times due to its popularity, but original prints from 1984 in pristine condition are the most valuable to collectors. The appearance of the black suit has remained an iconic moment in comic book lore, and as such, “Secret Wars #8” continues to be a coveted piece of comic history.

Estimate Value: $15 ~ $400+

7. Watchmen #1 (1986)

Watchmen #1, released in September 1986, is the inaugural issue of one of the most influential comic book series ever published. Created by writer Alan Moore, artist Dave Gibbons, and colorist John Higgins, “Watchmen” was a limited series published by DC Comics with 12 issues. It was groundbreaking for its realistic deconstruction of the superhero concept and innovative storytelling techniques.

Watchmen #1 (1986)
Watchmen #1 (1986)

The story of “Watchmen” is set in an alternate history where superheroes emerged in the 1940s and 1960s. Their presence changed history so that the United States won the Vietnam War, and the Watergate break-in was never exposed. In the world of “Watchmen,” it’s 1985, the Cold War is at its height, and superheroes are outlawed. The murder of a former hero pulls the remaining heroes back into a world without a place for them.

“Watchmen #1” sets the tone for the series, introducing readers to a gritty, tense atmosphere and complex characters that would challenge the previously clear-cut notions of superhero morality and efficacy. The comic and its iconic blood-stained smiley face cover symbolize the medium’s mature and sophisticated storytelling potential.

As for its value, “Watchmen #1” is a highly sought-after comic for collectors, but since it was printed in large numbers due to its popularity, it is not as rare as some other comics from the same era. Nevertheless, high-grade copies, especially those graded by CGC, can still command good prices on the collector’s market. However, the value for ungraded or lower-grade copies is usually more modest.

The entire series is considered a collector’s item and is sold as a complete set. “Watchmen” has been reprinted numerous times in collected editions, further testament to its enduring popularity and critical acclaim. The 2009 “Watchmen” film directed by Zack Snyder and an HBO television series in 2019 also cemented the impact on popular culture, which contributed to the comic’s ongoing appeal.

Estimate Value: $10 ~ $300+

8. Albedo #2 (1984)

Albedo Anthropomorphics #2, released in 1984 by Thoughts and Images, a small independent comic book publisher, holds a particularly unique place in comic history due to the first appearance of Usagi Yojimbo, a samurai rabbit created by Stan Sakai. The character, whose full name is Miyamoto Usagi, is a ronin (masterless samurai) who wanders through a version of feudal Japan inhabited by anthropomorphic animals.

Albedo #2 (1984)
Albedo #2 (1984)

The creation of Usagi Yojimbo was significant because it represented a successful blend of Japanese samurai mythology with the anthropomorphic style popularized by the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, which would later become hugely popular in their own right. Stan Sakai’s meticulous craftsmanship, heavily researched depiction of Japanese culture, and engaging storytelling helped make Usagi Yojimbo a long-running and beloved series.

The rarity of “Albedo Anthropomorphics #2” is due to its limited print run and the fact that a small publisher produced it before Usagi Yojimbo became well-known. The character would later gain a larger audience when larger comic book companies, including Fantagraphics, Dark Horse, and IDW Publishing, published Sakai’s work.

For collectors, “Albedo #2” is highly desirable and valuable, especially in good condition. The comic’s value has increased significantly, reflecting the character’s enduring popularity and the book’s rarity. Pristine, professionally graded copies (CGC-rated) of “Albedo #2” can fetch substantial prices on the collector’s market, with valuations often dependent on the grade and current demand.

Usagi Yojimbo’s continued success in comic books and his appearances in various media, including the “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” animated series, keep interest in “Albedo #2” high among collectors and fans.

Estimate Value: $1,000 ~ $30,000+

9. Wolverine (Limited Series) #1 (1982)

Wolverine #1, published in 1982, is the first issue of Wolverine’s first solo comic book series after years of being a breakout character in the “X-Men” comics. This limited series was a significant milestone for Wolverine, giving him a platform to develop independently from the X-Men and deepening his backstory, particularly his connections to Japan.

Wolverine (Limited Series) #1 (1982)
Wolverine (Limited Series) #1 (1982)

Written by Chris Claremont with art by Frank Miller and Joe Rubinstein, this four-issue series is famous for exploring Wolverine’s character beyond his role as a member of the X-Men. It dives into his complex personal code, his struggles with his animalistic nature, and his relationship with Mariko Yashida, central to Wolverine’s story in the comics.

The 1982 Wolverine limited series is considered a classic and is highly collectible. Issue #1 is especially sought after by fans and collectors for its significance in Wolverine’s history and for marking the start of his journey as a solo hero. Because Wolverine has been one of Marvel’s most popular characters for decades, his key issues tend to be more valuable.

The value of “Wolverine #1” from the 1982 series varies based on the comic book’s condition. High-grade copies, especially those graded and sealed by services like CGC, can command significant prices. Given the character’s enduring popularity, even ungraded copies in good condition are collectible. Nevertheless, it is an essential piece of Wolverine’s extensive history within the Marvel Universe.

Estimate Value: $20 ~ $600+

10. Daredevil #168 (1981)

Daredevil #168, published by Marvel Comics in January 1981, is a landmark issue for several reasons. It is most notably recognized for the first appearance of Elektra Natchios, who would become one of the most popular figures in the Daredevil mythos and Marvel’s larger universe. Created by writer and artist Frank Miller, Elektra is a skilled assassin and the love interest of Matt Murdock, the alter ego of Daredevil. Her debut in this issue began Frank Miller’s influential run on the “Daredevil” series, where he would establish himself as one of the industry’s most innovative and influential creators.

Daredevil #168 (1981)
Daredevil #168 (1981)

Miller’s tenure on “Daredevil” is famed for bringing a darker tone and greater depth to the character and introducing a grittier and more mature storytelling style to mainstream superhero comics. His work would have a lasting impact on the genre, influencing how characters’ stories were told and explored. The introduction of Elektra added a complex layer to Daredevil’s narrative, providing a tragic figure that would haunt Murdock’s life in many ways. Elektra’s storyline is rich with love, betrayal, and redemption themes, played out over many years in subsequent Daredevil plots and other Marvel storylines.

Due to its significance, “Daredevil #168” is a highly sought-after comic among collectors. As with most collectible comics, its value is contingent on its condition. High-grade copies, particularly those graded by reputable services like CGC, can be valuable. Even lower-grade copies are prized due to the importance of the issue. The comic has been reprinted several times. Elektra has appeared in various media, including films and television shows, maintaining high interest in her character and this key issue of her first appearance.

Estimate Value: $20 ~ $1,000+

Top 100 Most Valuable Comic Books From The 80s

1) The New Mutants #98 (1991) – First appearance of Deadpool.

2) The Uncanny X-Men #266 (1990) – First appearance of Gambit.

3) Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1 (1984) – The first appearance of the TMNT.

4) The Amazing Spider-Man #300 (1988) – First full appearance of Venom.

5) The Incredible Hulk #181 (1974) – First full appearance of Wolverine.

6) Crisis on Infinite Earths #7 (1985) – Death of Supergirl.

7) The Dark Knight Returns #1 (1986) – Iconic Frank Miller Batman story.

8) Watchmen #1 (1986) – Alan Moore’s groundbreaking graphic novel.

9) The Uncanny X-Men #129 (1980) – First appearance of Kitty Pryde and Emma Frost.

10) The New Teen Titans #2 (1980) – First appearance of Deathstroke the Terminator.

11)The Uncanny X-Men #168 (1983) – First appearance of Madelyne Pryor.

12)Daredevil #181 (1982) – Death of Elektra.

13) The New Mutants #87 (1990) – First appearance of Cable.

14) G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero #1 (1982) – The start of the popular G.I. Joe comic series.

15) Wolverine Limited Series #1 (1982) – Wolverine’s first solo series.

16) The Amazing Spider-Man #238 (1983) – First appearance of the Hobgoblin.
17) X-Factor #6 (1986) – First full appearance of Apocalypse.

18) Batman: The Killing Joke (1988) – A classic Batman story by Alan Moore.

19) Batman: Year One (1987) – Another iconic Batman story by Frank Miller.

20) Crisis on Infinite Earths #1 (1985) – The beginning of the crossover event.

21) Captain America #241 (1980) – First appearance of Nomad.

22) The New Teen Titans #1 (1980) – The debut of the new Teen Titans team.

23) The Uncanny X-Men #181 (1984) – First full appearance of Rogue.

24) The Avengers #196 (1980) – First appearance of Taskmaster.

25) Secret Wars #8 (1985) – The origin of Spider-Man’s black costume (the symbiote).

26) The New Mutants #14 (1984) – First appearance of Magik (Illyana Rasputin).

27) Swamp Thing #37 (1985) – First appearance of John Constantine.

28) The Uncanny X-Men #282 (1991) – First full appearance of Bishop.

29) Crisis on Infinite Earths #8 (1986) – Death of the Flash (Barry Allen).

30) Alpha Flight #1 (1983) – The first appearance of the Canadian superhero team Alpha Flight.

31) The Saga of Swamp Thing #34 (1985) – Alan Moore’s first Swamp Thing issue.

32) The Uncanny X-Men #221 (1987) – First appearance of Mr. Sinister.

33) The Amazing Spider-Man #252 (1984) – First appearance of Spider-Man’s black suit.

34) Batman: The Dark Knight Returns #2 (1986) – Part of the Dark Knight Returns series.

35) Uncanny X-Men #244 (1989) – First appearance of Jubilee.

36) The Spectacular Spider-Man #64 (1982) – First appearance of Cloak and Dagger.

37) The Punisher Limited Series #1 (1986) – Frank Miller’s take on the Punisher.

38) Iron Fist #14 (1977) – First appearance of Sabretooth (cameo).

39) The Amazing Spider-Man #238 (1983) – First full appearance of the Hobgoblin.

40) The Uncanny X-Men #210 (1986) – First appearance of Madelyne Pryor as the Goblin Queen.

41) Daredevil #168 (1981) – First appearance of Elektra.

42) Green Lantern #181 (1984) – First appearance of Kilowog.

43) The Avengers #195 (1980) – Origin and first appearance of Taskmaster.

44) The New Teen Titans Annual #2 (1983) – First appearance of Vigilante.

45) The New Mutants #1 (1983) – The debut issue of the New Mutants.

46) Crisis on Infinite Earths #10 (1986) – First cameo appearance of Wally West as the Flash.

47) The Uncanny X-Men #221 (1987) – First appearance of Mr. Sinister.

48) The Amazing Spider-Man #212 (1981) – First appearance of Hydro-Man.

49) The Saga of Swamp Thing #37 (1985) – First appearance of John Constantine.

50) The New Mutants #16 (1984) – First appearance of Warlock.

51) Daredevil #181 (1982) – Death of Elektra.

52) The Incredible Hulk #340 (1988) – Iconic Wolverine vs. Hulk cover.

53) Batman: The Dark Knight Returns #3 (1986) – Part of the Dark Knight Returns series.

54) The Amazing Spider-Man #299 (1988) – Early appearance of Venom.

55) The Incredible Hulk #377 (1991) – First appearance of Professor Hulk.

56) The Uncanny X-Men #172 (1983) – First full appearance of Rogue.

57)The New Teen Titans #39 (1984) – First appearance of Jericho.

58) The Amazing Spider-Man #212 (1981) – First appearance of Hydro-Man.

59) Batman #357 (1983) – First appearance of Jason Todd as Robin.

60) The New Mutants #100 (1991) – First appearance of X-Force.

61) The Uncanny X-Men #150 (1981) – First appearance of Kitty Pryde as Sprite.

62) The New Teen Titans #44 (1984) – First appearance of Nightwing.

63) The Amazing Spider-Man #238 (1983) – First full appearance of the Hobgoblin.

64) Batman: The Dark Knight Returns #4 (1986) – Part of the Dark Knight Returns series.

65) The Incredible Hulk #181 (1974) – First full appearance of Wolverine.

66) The Uncanny X-Men #282 (1991) – First full appearance of Bishop.

67) The Avengers #196 (1980) – First appearance of Taskmaster.

68) Crisis on Infinite Earths #9 (1986) – First full appearance of Wally West as the Flash.

69) The New Mutants #18 (1984) – First appearance of the Demon Bear.

70) The Uncanny X-Men #185 (1984) – First appearance of Nimrod.

71) The Amazing Spider-Man #265 (1985) – First appearance of Silver Sable.

72) Batman: The Dark Knight Returns #1 (1986) – Part of the Dark Knight Returns series.

73) Daredevil #168 (1981) – First appearance of Elektra.

74) The New Teen Titans #26 (1982) – First appearance of Terra.

75) The Amazing Spider-Man #212 (1981) – First appearance of Hydro-Man.

76) The Saga of Swamp Thing #21 (1984) – First appearance of Alan Moore’s Swamp Thing.

77) The Uncanny X-Men #244 (1989) – First appearance of Jubilee.

78) Crisis on Infinite Earths #12 (1986) – Conclusion of the Crisis storyline.

79) The Amazing Spider-Man #265 (1985) – First appearance of Silver Sable.

80) Batman #366 (1983) – First appearance of Jason Todd as Robin (in costume).

81) The New Mutants #87 (1990) – First appearance of Cable.

82) Daredevil #158 (1980) – Frank Miller’s first Daredevil issue.

83) The Uncanny X-Men #244 (1989) – First appearance of Jubilee.

84) The Avengers #195 (1980) – Origin and first appearance of Taskmaster.

85) The New Teen Titans #21 (1982) – First appearance of Brother Blood.

86) The Amazing Spider-Man #265 (1985) – First appearance of Silver Sable.

87) The Incredible Hulk #340 (1988) – Iconic Wolverine vs. Hulk cover.

88) Batman #359 (1983) – Second appearance of Jason Todd as Robin.

89) The New Mutants #6 (1983) – First appearance of the Hellions.

90) Daredevil #176 (1981) – First appearance of Stick.

91) The Uncanny X-Men #165 (1983) – First appearance of Lockheed.

92) The Amazing Spider-Man #299 (1988) – Early appearance of Venom.

93) The Avengers #196 (1980) – First appearance of Taskmaster.

94) The New Teen Titans #23 (1982) – First appearance of Blackfire.

95) The Uncanny X-Men #181 (1984) – First full appearance of Rogue.

96) The Incredible Hulk #312 (1985) – First appearance of the Pantheon.

97) Batman #357 (1983) – First appearance of Jason Todd as Robin.

98) The New Mutants #98 (1991) – First appearance of Deadpool.

99) Daredevil #182 (1982) – First appearance of Bullseye.

100) The Uncanny X-Men #212 (1986) – First appearance of the Marauders.


We’ve explored some of the era’s most valuable treasures, issues that not only entertained but also skyrocketed in value over the years, becoming must-haves for serious collectors. Whether you’re a long-time collector or new to the scene, the 80s offer a rich vein of comic book history to explore, full of potential discoveries and investments. Keep cherishing these timeless pieces of art and storytelling.

Until our next adventure, keep flipping those pages and let the legacy of the 80s comics inspire you to explore further into the vast universe of comic book collecting. Happy hunting, and may your collection grow ever more valuable!

Please note that this list includes a mix of first appearances, key storylines, and significant moments in comic book history from the 1980s. The value of these comics varies significantly based on their condition and market demand. For the most accurate and up-to-date valuations, refer to the latest comic book price guides, auctions, and verified sales data.

Collectors should also consider the grading and authentication by reputable organizations such as the Certified Guaranty Company (CGC), which can significantly impact a comic book’s value.

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Pauline Jackson

I like to talk about popular books. My book review inspires you to read and save time. Also, I summarize the book and give you the best lessons or ideas that can change your life. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

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