Elfquest first appeared in Fantasy Quarterly #1, published by Independent in 1978. That places it in the Bronze Age.
Why this issue matters
Wendy and Richard Pini's Wolfriders debuted in a short-lived anthology that folded after one issue, prompting the Pinis to self-publish through their own Warp Graphics. Elfquest #1 reprints this story, so the standalone series effectively begins at #2. The same issue carries early Dave Sim art.
Key facts
Fantasy Quarterly #1
- Character: Elfquest
- Publisher: Independent
- Cover year: 1978
- Era: Bronze Age
Before you buy or sell one
- Check it is a first print, not a facsimile or reprint. Newsstand and direct editions are priced differently too.
- Condition decides most of the value. Whether grading is worth it depends on the copy.
Other first appearances from 1978
- Mystique Ms. Marvel #16, 1978
More Independent firsts from the Bronze Age
- The Rocketeer Starslayer #2, 1982
- V (V for Vendetta) Warrior #1, 1982
- Judge Dredd 2000 AD Prog 2, 1977
Got a copy?
I buy key issues and whole collections across the UK, and I will tell you honestly whether what you have is the real first or a later printing. Send me photos of the cover and the indicia and I will come back with a straight answer, and a proper valuation if you want one.