Rocket Raccoon first appeared in Marvel Preview #7, published by Marvel in 1976. That places it in the Bronze Age.
Why this issue matters
Originally a one-off gun-toting animal from a strange side story, Rocket's debut gave little hint he'd eventually become one of the most recognisable Guardians of the Galaxy.
Key facts
Marvel Preview #7
- Character: Rocket Raccoon
- Publisher: Marvel
- Cover year: 1976
- 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 1976
- Phoenix X-Men #101, 1976
- Nova Nova #1, 1976
- Star-Lord Marvel Preview #4, 1976
- Bullseye Daredevil #131, 1976
More Marvel firsts from the Bronze Age
- Black Cat Amazing Spider-Man #194, 1979
- Emma Frost Uncanny X-Men #129, 1980
- Mystique Ms. Marvel #16, 1978
- Wolverine Incredible Hulk #181, 1974
- Wolverine (cameo) Incredible Hulk #180, 1974
- Storm, Colossus, Nightcrawler Giant-Size X-Men #1, 1975
- Punisher Amazing Spider-Man #129, 1974
- Ghost Rider (Johnny Blaze) Marvel Spotlight #5, 1972
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.