Stan Lee devised Iron Man as a creative challenge, seeking to create a hero that embodied all the things that his young and college-age readership rebelled against. Thus was born Tony Stark, a shamelessly capitalist millionaire playboy whose fortune was built on war machinery and weaponry, a daring riposte to all the political trends then prevalent among Marvel's largely young male readership. This first solo issue of Iron Man was an overnight smash. Graced with the jazz-like art of master artist Gene Colan it is no wonder. The recent smash movies have finally shoved the character into the national consciousness, but longtime comics fans have always known that this is one of Marvel's most complex and fascinating heroes.

When you hold this drop-dead gorgeous Pacific Coast copy in your hands you are amazed by the sheer luster and high gloss of the front cover. It is such an incredibly shiny cover. The deep resonant saturation of color is second to none. The purple background screams out and highlights the seductive red and yellow of Iron Man's armor.

Overstreet Guide 2012 NM- (9.2) value = $925

Time payments are available.