The top selling comic book last month was the Marvel Spotlight #5 which climbed all the way to the top of the best-seller charts in July. But what caused this? And why are collectors and people who sell comic books want it all of a sudden?
Marvel Spotlight comic series
Marvel Spotlight started in 1971 and was basically Marvel’s way of testing out new characters. If a story did well, that character might get their own series. Issue #1 showed Red Wolf, one of Marvel’s first Native American heroes – which was a rather big novelty back then.
The real breakout moment came with Marvel Spotlight #5. That issue launched Marvel’s horror phase in the ’70s, and it’s still one of the most wanted books from that era.
Other characters got their start here too, like Werewolf by Night, Son of Satan, and Moon Knight. These stories were darker, weirder, and more supernatural than the usual superhero stuff you used to see in comics. That’s what made the series special – it gave Marvel an opportunity to experiment and take risks most of their main titles wouldn’t.
Marvel Spotlight #5
Marvel Spotlight 5 came out in 1972, and it’s famous for being the first appearance of Ghost Rider – the one we know today, with the flaming skull and motorcycle. The Marvel Spotlight 5 story introduces Johnny Blaze, a stunt rider who makes a deal with the devil to save someone he cares about. But like you’d expect, the deal goes wrong, and he ends up cursed. The usual devil things.
Now, whenever danger shows up, Johnny transforms into Ghost Rider – a powerful spirit of vengeance with a flaming bike and a skull for a head. Sounds super awesome, right? Don’t forget it came out in 1972!
How much is the marvel spotlight 5
Marvel Spotlight no. 5 has become one of the hottest Bronze Age comics – thanks to the first appearance of Ghost Rider. It’s rare, in demand, and prices are high. High-grade marvel spotlight #5 (1972) copies are nearly impossible to find, which is part of the charm…and high value.
Here’s a quick look at current marvel spotlight 5 value based on condition:
- 2.0 (Good) – Around $250.
- 4.0 (Very Good) – About $375.
- 6.0 (Fine) – Sells for $550 or more.
- 8.0 (Very Fine) – Going for about $1,150.
- 9.4 (Near Mint) – Five-figure territory.
- Record sale – A 9.8 copy marvel spotlight #5 value of a whopping $360,000.
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Pete Przysiezny, owner of Comic Buying Center, has been buying and selling comics and collectibles for over 30 years. He lives in Northern Illinois and specializes in buying large comic book collections. He has a vast knowledge of all eras and types of comic books ranging from the 1930s to the 2000s. Pete spent his childhood going to comic book conventions with his father, so you could say he was raised in the industry.