The rising value of vintage comics

Comic book collecting has long been a niche hobby, but in recent years, it has also become a serious investment vehicle. Rare and historically significant comics, particularly those from the Golden (1938-1956) and Silver (1956-1970) ages, have seen dramatic appreciation in value.

A high-grade copy of Amazing Fantasy No. 15 sold for US$3.6 million in 2021, setting a record for a Spider-Man comic. While most copies don’t reach that level, even issues in lower grades can sell for tens of thousands, making them a valuable asset class for collectors and investors alike.

“Condition and scarcity are key,” said Sims. “If a comic is rare and well-preserved, it can increase in value significantly over time.”

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What makes collectibles a smart investment?

The sale of the rare Spider-Man comic is a reminder that childhood collectibles can turn into lucrative assets. Unlike stocks or real estate, collectibles offer a unique blend of nostalgia and financial opportunity. They are also largely uncorrelated with traditional financial markets, meaning they can hold their value even during economic downturns.

However, experts warn that collectibles are not a guaranteed investment and require knowledge of the market.

Stephen Fishler, CEO of ComicConnect, emphasized the enduring demand for iconic comics like Amazing Fantasy No. 15. In a 2021 interview with Bleeding Cool back in 2011, Fishler remarked that the comic "is a cornerstone of pop culture," adding that such books always have a market due to their historical significance.

“Rarity, character significance, and condition all play a role in determining price,” Fishler explained.

Other childhood collectibles that could be valuable

Comic books aren’t the only childhood items that could be worth a small fortune. Many vintage collectibles have surged in value, including:

  • Baseball and hockey cards – Cards featuring rookie appearances of legendary players, such as Wayne Gretzky or Mickey Mantle, can fetch six or seven figures at auction.
  • Vintage dolls and action figures – Barbie dolls from the 1950s and original Star Wars action figures in mint condition can be worth thousands.
  • Retro video games – Sealed copies of classic Nintendo, Sega, and PlayStation games have seen a boom in value, with some selling for over $1 million.

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How to find out if your collectibles have value

If you suspect you own a valuable collectible, there are several ways to assess its worth:

  1. Professional appraisers – Reputable dealers and appraisers can evaluate the condition and market value of an item.
  2. Auction houses – Major auction sites like Heritage Auctions and Sotheby’s specialize in high-value collectibles and offer appraisal services.
  3. Online marketplaces – Websites like eBay and PriceCharting can provide insights into current market trends based on recent sales data.
  4. Grading services – Companies like the Certified Guaranty Company (CGC) for comics and Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA) for trading cards offer professional grading, which can significantly impact an item’s value.

While collecting remains a passion for many, it’s clear that some childhood treasures have become serious investment opportunities. For those lucky enough to have kept their prized possessions in good condition, a hidden fortune might be waiting.

Sources

1. CTV News: Barrie, Ont. collector sells rare $30K Spider-Man comic from 1962 (March 28, 2025)

1. Bleeding Cool: Spider-Man Shocker: Highest Graded Copy of Amazing Fantasy #15 Goes For $1.1 Million (March 9, 2011)

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Leslie Kennedy Senior Content Editor

Leslie Kennedy served as an editor at Thomson Reuters and for Star Media Group, followed by a number of years as a writer and editor and content manager in marketing communications, before returning to her editorial roots. She is a graduate of Humber College’s post-graduate journalism program and has been a professional writer and editor ever since.

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