CGC Comics Hot List – May 2025

Posted on 5/1/2025

This month’s comics feature iconic debuts and legendary characters making waves on screen, setting the stage for strong collector demand.

In this monthly series, CGC delves into the dynamic world of comic book collecting, focusing on the hottest titles influencing the current market. Utilizing comprehensive insights from CGC submission data, we explore significant first appearances, rare variant covers and milestone issues.

In this month's list, Poison Ivy plants her roots in Gotham. The Silver Surfer hits the stars with nothing but his board and a broken heart, and Guy Gardner learns willpower only gets you so far. Meanwhile, in Spider-Man's neighborhood, the wall-crawler takes on the original Sinister Six — and the Punisher crashes in with one mission and a whole lot of bullets.

Amazing Spider-Man Annual #1


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Amazing Spider-Man Annual #1, published in 1964, is a Silver Age gem that delivers the first appearance of the Sinister Six, a villainous dream team featuring Doc Ock, Vulture, Electro, Kraven, Mysterio and Sandman. Packed with action and iconic Steve Ditko art, this oversized issue stands out as a milestone in Marvel history. Interest has only grown as many of these villains have gained new fans through recent film appearances, making the issue even more desirable for collectors.

Silver Surfer #1


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When Silver Surfer #1 launched in 1968, it gave Marvel’s cosmic loner his own platform to wrestle with humanity, morality and the weight of his past. More than just a spinoff, the issue expanded the mythos of Norrin Radd, diving deep into his tragic origin and inner conflict. It’s a landmark book, with sweeping art by John Buscema and a philosophical edge that set it apart from other superhero titles of the time. Interest in the issue is climbing again as the Silver Surfer prepares to appear on screen in Fantastic Four: First Steps, a multiversal twist where his lost love Shalla-Bal takes his place as Galactus’s Herald.

Amazing Spider-Man #129


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First hitting shelves in 1974, Amazing Spider-Man #129 introduced the Punisher, a lethal wildcard with a skull on his chest and a war in his heart. Frank Castle wasn’t a typical villain; he was a one-man army who didn’t believe in second chances. The issue crackles with tension and early '70s grit, laying the groundwork for one of Marvel’s most controversial icons. With his recent bloody return in Daredevil: Born Again on Disney+, the Punisher has roared back into the spotlight, pushing this key issue even higher on collector wish lists.

Green Lantern #59


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Green Lantern #59, published in 1968, marks the first appearance of Guy Gardner, the brash backup Lantern who’d go on to become one of the most polarizing and beloved characters in the DC Universe. Originally introduced as Hal Jordan’s alternate, Guy’s rough edge and rebellious streak eventually set him apart. The issue has become a collector favorite, not just for its Silver Age roots but for introducing a character who refuses to blend in. With Nathan Fillion set to bring Gardner to life in the upcoming Superman film, demand for this key issue is heating up fast.

Batman #181


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Batman #181, released in 1966, is famous for introducing Poison Ivy, one of Batman’s most complex and dangerous foes. This issue not only introduced her as a plant-based villainess but also laid the foundation for her eventual evolution into a morally gray antihero. Recently, the book has gained even more attention after reports surfaced that actress Karen Gillan has expressed interest in portraying Ivy in the new DC Universe films. Add to that Poison Ivy’s recurring appearances on the Harley Quinn animated series, where she’s become a fan favorite, and it's clear why collectors are clamoring for this key issue.

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About CGC

Since revolutionizing comic book grading in 2000, CGC has grown to include certification services for a vast variety of pop culture collectibles. These divisions include CGC Cards, CGC Video Games and CGC Home Video. CGC Cards provides expert card grading for sports cards, TCGs and non-sports cards. CGC Video Games is dedicated to video game grading for the most popular consoles, including Nintendo, Sega, Atari, PlayStation and more. CGC Home Video provides expert VHS grading in addition to other types of videocassettes, DVD, Blu-ray and more. CGC also offers seamless solutions for autograph collectors with CGC Signature Series and JSA Authentic Autograph services.

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