Groot first appeared in Tales to Astonish #13, published by Marvel in 1960. That places it in the Silver Age.
Why this issue matters
Groot's original appearance was as a silent alien tree monster menacing Earth, a far cry from the beloved Guardian of the Galaxy he'd become decades later.
Key facts
Tales to Astonish #13
- Character: Groot
- Publisher: Marvel
- Cover year: 1960
- Era: Silver 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 1960
- Justice League Brave and the Bold #28, 1960
More Marvel firsts from the Silver Age
- Kang the Conqueror Avengers #8, 1964
- Ultron Avengers #55, 1968
- Sandman Amazing Spider-Man #4, 1963
- Lizard Amazing Spider-Man #6, 1963
- Electro Amazing Spider-Man #9, 1964
- Mysterio Amazing Spider-Man #13, 1964
- Scorpion Amazing Spider-Man #20, 1965
- Rhino Amazing Spider-Man #41, 1966
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.