Comic Book Eras

Comic books have a rich history that dates back to the 1930s. This guide aims to provide an overview of the key highlights that influenced comics, heroes and enriched our culture.

Golden Age Comics

The golden age of comics is considered the creation of comic books as we know them today. With the creation of superheroes in Action Comics and Detective Comics to Timely Comics’ creation of Captain America, the period from 1938 to 1955 is rich with comic history. As a collector, I am drawn to the stories and art from this time period, and the foundation it set for the future of comics.

Silver Age Comics

The 1950s marked a new era in comics in 1956 as the silver age began with the introduction of the new Flash in Showcase #4. With the rise of new superhero teams led by Fantastic Four, Justice League and the Avengers, many of today’s best known heroes were born in the silver age. Led by Spider-Man in Amazing Fantasy #15 and Hulk in Incredible Hulk #1, the silver age forever changed comics as we know them today and represents some of the most valuable silver age comic books.

Bronze Age Comics

The Bronze age in Comic books spanned from 1970 with Green Lantern 76 and spanned until the mid 1980s. In this era, a number of iconic characters were introduced including Wolverine in Incredible Hulk 181, Ghost Rider in Marvel Spotlight 5, the new X-Men in Giant-Size X-Men 1 and Punisher in Amazing Spider-Man 129. Both Marvel and DC had memorable storyline and artists rise to prominence which set the foundation for Copper Age and Modern Comics.