Censorship’s Impact on Comic Book Value

By Jamie

I found this really interesting clip about censorship of comic books in the 1940s and 1950s. Apparently, Dr. Fredric Wertham along with two senators attacked the comic book industry with hearings and a huge smear campaign.

Wertham, who worked with juvenile delinquents, found that one common tie between them was that they all read comic books. Of course, at that time comic books were widely popular with most young people, but Dr. Wertham failed to make this important realization.

Just like today’s hearings about music and video games, the comic book hearings resulted in a rating system. The comic book publishers banded together and decided what to publish based on strict censorship rules. The Comics Code Authority approval had to be granted before any comic was to be published.

Comics were heavily shaped by this code. Super heros like Superman, Bat-man and Wonder Woman all changed their behavior to make people more comfortable. Check out the video for yourself.



I can’t even begin to imagine how huge of an impact this must have had on the comic books we read today. Imagine where the natural evolution of the books would be today if it hadn’t been interrupted. What a shame that so many people who might have enjoyed reading comics, have never even picked on up because the readership levels were cut so sharply, years ago. It is so strange to see that our culture has a way of repeating itself even though the past has proven against it.

I suppose there are some good things that came from this terrible situation. Today’s comics prices might have been higher if demand for them was greatly increased and the worth of comics from before the Comics Code Authority must be astronomical. Collectors are probably foaming at the mouth to get comic books in a more pure form. I’m not sure how long the approval system was in place but comics with the seals of approval might even show up for high dollar amounts in a comic price guide if they are hard to find. I’d be shocked if these comics appraisals weren’t effected by this at all. All comics appraisers know that a collectibles value is often shaped by historical events.

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More Iron Man News

Rumor has it, the new Iron Man game is going to feature multiple Iron Man suites, including both new and classic suits. Apparently, the game will feature seven suits, all of which will be playable and unlockable. Both the Xbox 360 and the PS3 will have an additional platform specific suit. So unless you own both of those systems I’m afraid you won’t get to play with all nine. We don’t have long to wait to see if this rumor is true. The new Iron Man game debuts on May 2, 2008.

The Iron man game has been under development for a long time and they’ve worked extra hard on making a game and controls that can handle all of Iron Man’s abilities. If that sounds exciting to you and you can’t wait to hear more, you are in luck. I’ve found a cool video all about the making of the game. Check it out!



The game featuring multiple suits is likely to have an effect on Iron Man collectibles value. Figurines of all the different suits are sure to follow the release of this game. There will be more Iron Man memorabilia available now than ever before.

Once the movie and game release don’t forget to reevaluate your comics prices. Considering the success of the movie and the game, prices are likely to change. Comics appraisals might be in order. Keep an eye on your favorite comic price guide to be sure.

By Jamie.

Marvel Comics Brings Us Behind the Scenes Footage of Incredible Hulk

By Jamie Gilliam

With the release of the new Incredible Hulk movie only 65 days away, Marvel Comics is making sure we’re ready. Today the top story on their official site was the release of some behind the scenes footage. Check it out!



Personally, I love behind the scenes footage, and that clip didn’t disappoint. Seeing the producer’s and director’s comments was really interesting and I’m even more excited about seeing the movie now.

If that wasn’t enough Hulk for you, don’t worry there is plenty more where that came from. On Marvel’s site you can check out the Hulk’s bio and get photos, videos and wallpaper for your computer. If that still isn’t enough, you can also find more info about the Incredible Hulk video game due out this June.

I think it is really cool that they are making this movie. The Hulk has starred in lots of movies and shows and I think it is time that they finally do it right. For a character who has been around since the time when comics prices were well under a dollar. It amazes me that his story is still so relevant and interesting today. As I’ve said before, I’m really excited to see what this movie does to the worth of comics featuring the Incredible Hulk. I hope the comics appraisers are ready!

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