Inspired by Jekyll & Hyde and the Jewish myth of the Golem, Stan Lee and Jack Kirby kept their streak of success running with the big and brutal Hulk, devised as a misunderstood monster in the tradition of Frankenstein, and deliberately meant to appeal to the outsider mentality of so many of comics' young, male readers. This instantly classic issue preys on Cold War fears of nuclear annihilation and the average American boy's body discomfort and confusion to create one of the most haunting and affecting of hero origins, and a book guaranteed to appeal to the growing army of boomer comic nerds. Initially colored grey in his premier appearance, the lead character was quickly reworked into a big green beast when the primitive four-color printing process mangled the grey color scheme throughout the book, changing the goliath's hue practically from page to page. This instantly recognizable cover image still resonates with fans to this day, green or grey.

Out of any Marvel Silver Age key, this book is the one that most often makes it to market looking like it's been worked over by an army of toddler boys (usually, it was), and the purple cover is unforgiving when it comes to flaws and scuffs. That makes this copy, a solid and colorful 7.0, such a delight to hold, and a guaranteed hit with collectors.

Overstreet Guide 2012 F/VF (7.0) value = $15,700