The Bronze Age for years has been dominated by Marvel. Last month DC Comics finally took the lead with the number one ranked Bronze Age comic in April. It had a major motion picture event, a Bronze Age key not seen since the Golden Age, and an Atlas-sized number of sales for the era. The issue is Shazam! #1. Created by Denny O'Neil, Otto Binder, and E. Nelson Birdwell (script). Additionally, the art was by three illustrators C.C. Beck, Nick Cardy, and Pete Costanza. This comic book has the first Captain Marvel (Shazam) in DC Comics; the first appearance since the Golden Age; and the first Sivana's appearance.
The number two runner up is the ubiquitous Marvel Super-Heroes Secret Wars #8. This issue is the first Spider-Man symbiote and black costume. It was created by Jim Shooter (script) and Michael Zeck (art). This is the real first appearance of the symbiotic creature that would become the world-renowned Venom. There are so many issues printed that currently, CGC Census has 12,809 outstanding slabs. Never a good sign, but the popularity is on a parity with Amazing Spider-Man #300. This particular Spidey for some reason has dominated the Bronze Age rankings for at least the last year. Shazam or symbiote which is the most profitable speculation? Further, which one should you buy and hold long-term?
Marvel Super-Heroes Secret Wars #8
This comic has been at the top of the list for many moons. Everyone loves Venom; therefore, any part of his origin or beginning keys are huge sellers. Is it a more profitable investment than the first appearance of Shazam in DC Comics?
Long-Term Returns:
- Grade 9.8 $260 FMV positive returns +38.5
- Grade 9.2 $160 FMV positive returns +20.1%
- Grade 8.0 $85 FMV positive returns +42.3%
- Grade 6.5 $50 FMV positive returns +11.8%
The first Spider-Man symbiotic suit has scored impressive returns, these are simply outstanding numbers long-term. There are many in the market place but the public seems to have an appetite for this Secret War on our pocketbook.
The reintroduction of Shazam into the DC Movie Universe is a bold move by Warner Bros. Back in the 40s Shazam was more popular than Superman and actually outsold him. Now with Zachary Levi's inspired acting and comedy they have begun to return Shazam to the hegemonic superhero he once was. What are the long-term returns for this investment?
Long-Term Returns:
- Grade 9.8 $900 FMV positive returns +16.3%
- Grade 9.4 $170 FMV negative returns -2.4%
- Grade 8.5 $95 FMV positive returns +21.8%
- Grade 6.5 $60 FMV positive returns +28.2%
With the might of Hercules Shazam! #1 has shot up the rankings in April. Further, the wisdom of Solomon shows us these returns are not quite as stable as the Marvel Super-Heroes Secret Wars #8. Use the speed of Mercury to either sell your copy of Shazam! #1 now, or sit on it for the next movie. Perhaps it will get a pop from Black Adam, played by none other than THE ROCK!
Even in the short-term Marvel Super-Heroes Secret Wars #8 dominates in this matchup. The symbiote story doesn't need to rebuild a fan base, it already has millions of devotees. On a personal note, I am holding onto my copy. I believe Shazam! #1 will continue to grow in popularity. Warner Bros Pictures finally has a movie that matched the low key comedy of Marvel blow for blow. Further, expect at least two more movies and a stand-alone about Black Adam. The impact on Shazam! #1 will be to increase the price of its return trend. In four years time, we could be looking at a following similar to the Dark Knight movies by Christopher Nolan. Now is the time to put your bets down. Me? I am going to channel the courage of Achilles and buy and hold Shazam! #1.
