The name of the collecting game is keeping things fresh. Whether it’s a new character, a live-action or even an animated incarnation, or just a new spin on an old favorite, comic collectors jump on what’s new. In this case, it is a new direction for Elektra.
DAREDEVIL #25
In Chip Zdarsky’s current DD run, issue #25 has sent shockwaves through the comic world. Matt Murdock has been put behind bars, and his ex-girlfriend is taking up the mantle in his absence. Putting Elektra back in the spotlight will undoubtedly put a premium on her key issues. Here are the latest numbers.
DAREDEVIL #168
Other creators may take Daredevil readers on engaging adventures and add to the lore, but none can surpass the legendary work of Frank Miller. Much has been written about Miller’s take on “the Man without Fear,” and one of the more enduring figures from that run has been Elektra. It all began with Daredevil #168, and it is a must for Daredevil fans.
At the high end, there is the 9.8, which carries a $1,252 fair market value for the past year. There hasn’t been a near-mint-plus sold online since August when a copy brought $1,514.
Personally, I would aim for the 9.6. The near-mint grade has a 90-day FMV of $439, though the last sale was for just under $500, so prices are going up.
If you are willing to settle for a mid-grade copy, the 6.5 is at a premium at the moment. You can add that to your collection for less than $100 on average.
COMICS JOURNAL #58
First cover appearances are all the rage. While this is not a comic book, it nonetheless features the master assassin alongside her love, Daredevil, and it was published months ahead of DD #168.
What is a great part about Comics Journal #58 is that most collectors overlook it, and that leaves prices low. In fact, eBay’s sold listings reveal that this book generally stays in the $20-$30 range.
DAREDEVIL #181
This is one of the greatest single issues ever printed.
Frank Miller utilizes the comic medium as only a master storyteller could, creating a personal story of revenge from Bullseye’s demented point of view. The visual of Elektra being impaled on her own sai is captivating and captures Bullseye’s ferocity in a stunning panel. Truly, this is as good as any one comic can be.
“Death” issues don’t tend to hold high values for good reason: superheroes don’t stay dead for long. Elektra was resurrected by issue #190. Still, Daredevil #181 should be in every collection simply for the art and storytelling, and it won’t break your budget to get even a high-grade copy. At a 9.8, the direct edition has a 90-day average of $138 while the 9.6 currently averages $68. If you want the newsstand copy, expect to pay closer to $250 for a near-mint-plus.
ELEKTRA: ASSASSIN #1
Six years after Elektra debuted in DD #168, she starred in her own limited series. Aside from this being a landmark story that set a new standard for mature comics, these issues are worth collecting for the all-star talent at the helm. Miller handled the writing duties while Bill Sienkiewicz and his surreal art tell the visual side of the story.
Looking for a graded 9.8? The last Elektra: Assassin #1 that sold online was in 2007 for just $12. The highest grade sold this year was the 9.6, and it was for the low price of $38. The best bet is to look for the full set. Those are typically selling for about $20-$30 for all eight issues.
THE FUTURE
Elektra is on the cusp of being an extremely hot character, especially if her stint as Daredevil is a hit with readers. Obviously, Matt Murdock will get out of prison and reclaim the mantle, but it should be a fun ride in the meantime.
