Human Torch first appeared in Marvel Comics #1, published by Marvel in 1939. That places it in the Gold Age.
Why this issue matters
Carl Burgos's android, no relation to Johnny Storm, who borrowed the name and powers two decades later. Shared the first Timely comic with Namor, making Marvel Comics #1 the single most important book in Marvel's history.
Marvel Comics #1 is also the first appearance of Namor the Sub-Mariner, which is part of why the book carries the weight it does.
Key facts
Marvel Comics #1
- Character: Human Torch (original android)
- Publisher: Marvel
- Cover year: 1939
- Era: Gold 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.
Go deeper
Other first appearances from 1939
- Batman Detective Comics #27, 1939
More Marvel firsts from the Gold Age
- Captain America Captain America Comics #1, 1941
- Red Skull Captain America Comics #1, 1941
- Bucky Barnes Captain America Comics #1, 1941
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.