Phoenix Number 1 Value Guide

Phoenix Number 1 marks the January 1975 debut of Ed Tyler, an astronaut granted superhuman abilities by an alien suit. This issue is a cornerstone of the short-lived Atlas/Seaboard line, founded by Martin Goodman as a direct competitor to Marvel Comics.

What affects the value of Phoenix Number 1?

• CGC or CBCS grading significantly impacts the $15-$25 price range, with high-grade 9.8 copies commanding premiums.
• The presence of 'off-white to white' pages versus yellowed or brittle edges affects collector desirability.
• Structural integrity, including the lack of spine stress lines, color breaks, or rusted staples.
• Market demand for Atlas/Seaboard titles, which often fluctuates based on interest in Bronze Age 'indie' history.

How to Identify Phoenix Number 1?

• Verify the Atlas/Seaboard diamond logo and the 25-cent cover price in the upper left corner.
• Check for the January 1975 publication date and the 'Vol. 1 No. 1' designation on the indicia page.
• Confirm the cover art features the protagonist in his signature red and yellow suit flying through space.
• Ensure the presence of two original steel staples and the specific matte paper stock characteristic of 1970s Bronze Age books.

History of Phoenix Number 1

Published in January 1975, this was the first issue of a short-lived series from Atlas/Seaboard, a company founded by Martin Goodman after he left Marvel Comics. The character was an astronaut named Ed Tyler who gained superpowers from an alien suit. The series only lasted four issues before the company folded.