Hidden within our attics and closets may be comic books worth substantial sums of money, as a rare and pristine collection is set for auction in London this month, with a total value exceeding £2 million.
Adam Pace, a comic book and art specialist at London’s Stanley Gibbons Baldwin’s auction house, overseeing the presentation of the collection, notes a growing trend in the increasing value of childhood comics, attributing it to the enduring appeal of escapism in challenging times.
“Given the tumultuous era we live in, anything related to comics, sci-fi, as well as content on platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime, serves as a welcomed escape from reality,” he remarks.
Despite some viewers expressing ‘superhero fatigue’ at the cinema, where no Marvel or DC Studios films made the top five highest-grossing movies of 2025, comic book enthusiasts continue to show unwavering enthusiasm for their beloved reads.
Adam highlights the transition of comics into tradable assets, akin to trading cards, citing the surge in value of items like Pokemon and sports cards, attracting interest from diverse individuals including music celebrities, actors, and even professionals in finance seeking investment opportunities.
American rapper Eminem, known for his extensive rare comic collection, was lured to the UK for an exclusive interview exchange involving a prized copy of Amazing Fantasy #15, emphasizing the allure of sought-after comic editions.
Among the coveted items in the upcoming auction compilation is a mint condition copy of Amazing Fantasy #15, featuring Spider-Man’s debut, valued at £25,000, a rarity in the UK as highlighted by Adam’s experience at a recent comic event in London.
The assortment also boasts seminal issues introducing iconic Marvel characters like Spider-Man, Thor, Loki, and Iron Man, each valued between £5,000 to £10,000, reflecting the enduring appeal and historical significance of these early editions.
With the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) dominating the box office and continually introducing new characters, the corresponding surge in comic book values is evident, spurred by Hollywood’s influence on elevating the worth of collectibles tied to on-screen appearances.
Adam acknowledges the impact of cinema on the comic market, citing instances where character debuts in film productions have directly influenced the value of their first comic appearances, creating a speculative market responsive to on-screen portrayals.
Notably, the transformation of Iron Man’s comic status post the film adaptation starring Robert Downey Jr., underlines the evolving preferences in superhero archetypes, shifting towards darker, more complex characters in alignment with contemporary sensibilities.
Adam predicts a lasting appreciation for physical comic copies despite digital advancements, attributing the enduring value to the tangible experience of holding and engaging with these historical artifacts, an irreplaceable sensation cherished by collectors worldwide.
He warns of the potential loss of valuable comics hidden in forgotten corners like basements and garages, recounting a close call where prized issues were nearly discarded, stressing the importance of recognizing and preserving these treasures.
*The Alan McCulloch Collection auction commenced at 4.30pm on 28 November. For more details, visit sgbaldwins.com/auctions/the-alan-mcculloch-comic-collection-cb25002