The Rocketeer first appeared in Starslayer #2, published by Independent in 1982. That places it in the Bronze Age.
Why this issue matters
Dave Stevens's jetpack hero began life as a backup strip in someone else's comic, running in Starslayer #2 and #3 from Pacific Comics. The reader response was strong enough that a full title followed, though Stevens was reluctant to give up his freelance work for it.
Key facts
Starslayer #2
- Character: The Rocketeer
- Publisher: Independent
- Cover year: 1982
- 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 1982
- V (V for Vendetta) Warrior #1, 1982
More Independent firsts from the Bronze Age
- Elfquest Fantasy Quarterly #1, 1978
- 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.