Bronze and Modern Gods

This week on Bronze and Modern Gods, we cover a collector-driven episode with a little bit of everything: modern variant heat, 1980s satire, and two underrated books that deserve way more attention.Hot TopicAscencia #31 (1:25 Arthur Adams variant) and the variant strategy that’s turning a low-volume indie into a high-impact market mover, with multiple scarcity tiers fueling demand.Old Fart RuleBoris the Bear #1 (Dark Horse, 1986), the perfect time capsule of the black-and-white comics boom, complete with a second printing and a surprisingly long run across two publishers.Underrated Books of the WeekRichard: Suicide Squad #1 (1987), the launch of the modern Squad and the blueprint that shaped later adaptations.John: Not Brand Echh #1 (1967), Marvel’s official parody book and a weirdly revealing snapshot of how the company saw itself while the superhero universe was still forming.Plus Show & Tell, new member shoutouts, and viewer mail.Become a Member for $2.99/month and get:• Members-only live streams• Bonus Show & Tell episodes• On-screen shoutoutsJOIN → https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkHTY1eNYHr9JoTndx_m6kA/join📬 VIEWER MAILSend questions to:bronzeandmoderngods@gmail.com

Is Marvel’s Ultimate Endgame #1 blind bag a future key - or a disaster waiting to happen? This week we dig into early reports of damaged copies, why some stores are already seeing uneven quality, and how higher-grade examples could separate themselves from the pack.We also tackle eBay scammers, crack open viewer mail, and share a little Show & Tell.For our Old Fart Rule, we rewind to 1986 and revisit Watchmen #1, the issue that redefined superhero comics and helped usher in the Modern Age. From its lasting cultural impact to current collector prices, we break down why this book still matters nearly four decades later.Plus, in Underrated Books of the Week, we spotlight:Bloodstone #1 (2001) - the ahead-of-its-time debut of Elsa BloodstoneMarvel Premiere #57 (1980) - the first U.S. comic book appearance of Doctor Who in the Marvel lineAll that, market talk, collector insight, and plenty of old-school perspective — let’s get into it.⭐ SUPPORT THE SHOWBecome a Member for $2.99/month and get:• Members-only live streams• Bonus Show & Tell episodes• On-screen shoutoutsJOIN → https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkHTY1eNYHr9JoTndx_m6kA/join📬 VIEWER MAILSend questions to:bronzeandmoderngods@gmail.com

This week on Bronze and Modern Gods, a Bronze Age Spider-Man book is suddenly scorching hot.Hot Book of the Week: Amazing Spider-Man #134 (1974) — first appearance of Tarantula and a debated Punisher appearance that many collectors still argue about. After the Spider-Man: Brand New Day trailer gave fans their first live-action look at Tarantula in a scene mirroring this issue’s cover, sales spiked hard and high-grade raws are climbing fast.25 Year Rule: Alias #1 (Marvel MAX, 2001) — the first appearance of Jessica Jones and the launch of Marvel’s adult-oriented MAX approach in a way that felt genuinely different at the time. We talk about why this book mattered, why it caused immediate conversation, and why it still reads like a major tone shift for 2000s comics.Underrated Books of the Week: We’ve got a genuinely unsettling prestige-format story on deck (Batman: The Cult #1) and another sleeper that’s far more significant than most collectors realize.Plus: Show & Tell, new member shoutouts, and viewer mail from the community.🔔 Like, subscribe, and join the channel for member-only episodes, live streams, and bonus Show & Tell segments.⭐ SUPPORT THE SHOWBecome a Member for $2.99/month and get:• Members-only live streams• Bonus Show & Tell episodes• On-screen shoutoutsJOIN → https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkHTY1eNYHr9JoTndx_m6kA/join📬 VIEWER MAILSend questions to:bronzeandmoderngods@gmail.com

Collectors, this week is wild!Hot Book of the Week: Astro Boy #1 (Gold Key, 1965) is surging after news of a Sony live-action Astro Boy film with Jason Reitman developing the project — and high-grade copies are already reaching up to $800.Then for our 25 Year Rule, we revisit Amazing Spider-Man #30 (2001) — the first issue written by J. Michael Straczynski, kicking off one of the most influential (and controversial) Spider-Man runs ever. It introduces Ezekiel Sims and Morlun, launches the early Spider-Totem mythology, and resets the tone of Spider-Man for the 2000s.Underrated Books of the Week:Nottingham #1 (Mad Cave, 2021) flips Robin Hood into a medieval noir crime mystery from the Sheriff’s point of view.Modeling with Millie #54 (Marvel, 1967) is the final issue of the series — featuring the truly bizarre “Millie the Marvel” superhero dream story that you have to hear to believe.Plus: Show & Tell, viewer mail, and the collector market talk you come for every week.🔔 Like, subscribe, and join the channel for member-only episodes, live streams, and bonus Show & Tell segments.⭐ SUPPORT THE SHOWBecome a Member for $2.99/month and get:• Members-only live streams• Bonus Show & Tell episodes• On-screen shoutoutsJOIN → https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkHTY1eNYHr9JoTndx_m6kA/join📬 VIEWER MAILSend questions to:bronzeandmoderngods@gmail.com

A brand-new comic is already selling for multiples of cover price before most readers have even opened a copy - and this week we’re asking what’s really going on with the market.Hot Book of the Week: Is Ted OK? #1 from Mad Cave Comics is the latest indie debut catching rapid aftermarket attention, joining a growing list of new releases heating up almost instantly. Is this genuine demand…or another short-term flip cycle?Then our Old Fart Rule heads back to 1986 with Legends #1, DC’s major post-Crisis event that helped redefine the superhero landscape and launch a new era for multiple titles across the DC Universe.And for Underrated Books of the Week, we spotlight:Mech Cadet Yu #1 — a modern mecha underdog story that quietly built a strong following.Life With Archie #190 — featuring Archie Comics’ own mad scientist Doctor Doom in one of the strangest Bronze Age stories you’ll ever hear about… involving eternal life, foam rubber, and pulverized nacho chips.Plus Viewer Mail, Show & Tell, market talk, and more from the comic community.🔔 Like, subscribe, and join the channel for member-only episodes, live streams, and bonus Show & Tell segments.⭐ SUPPORT THE SHOWBecome a Member for $2.99/month and get:• Members-only live streams• Bonus Show & Tell episodes• On-screen shoutoutsJOIN → https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkHTY1eNYHr9JoTndx_m6kA/join📬 VIEWER MAILSend questions to:bronzeandmoderngods@gmail.com

This week on Bronze and Modern Gods, the comic market delivers another round of surprises, from instant speculation heat to Golden Age auction drama.A brand-new Image Comics debut, White Sky #1, is already selling for multiples of cover price just days after release. Is this real demand, market momentum…or another short-term spec spike?Meanwhile, a high-grade copy of Captain America's Weird Tales #74 is currently climbing at auction - already reaching eye-opening numbers with bidding still underway. But is it REALLY a 7.5?👉 Check out the live Heritage Auctions listing here:https://comics.ha.com/itm/golden-age-1938-1955-/superhero/captain-america-comics-74-timely-1949-cgc-vf-75-off-white-to-white-pages/a/7461-91045.sPLUS:✅ Viewer Mail from the B&MG community✅ Show & Tell highlights✅ The 25 Year Rule revisits a surprising long-running indie favorite✅ Underrated Books of the Week featuring overlooked gems from Marvel’s New Universe and beyond✅ Market insights, collector trends, and honest comic talk🔔 Like, subscribe, and join the channel for member-only episodes, live streams, and bonus Show & Tell segments.⭐ SUPPORT THE SHOWBecome a Member for $2.99/month and get:• Members-only live streams• Bonus Show & Tell episodes• On-screen shoutoutsJOIN → https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkHTY1eNYHr9JoTndx_m6kA/join📬 VIEWER MAILSend questions to:bronzeandmoderngods@gmail.com

Yes… we know. The episode is a day late. We regret nothing except our concept of time. 😅This week we dig into a brand-new release already selling for crazy prices - D’ORC #1. Is it genuine demand, speculative frenzy, or straight-up funny business?Then we rewind to 1986, when The Punisher #1 proved comics were ready for darker, grittier heroes and helped reshape an entire decade of storytelling.Plus underrated picks you should NOT be ignoring:• A scarce Golden Age Western sleeper• The brilliantly bleak Strikeforce: Morituri #1 - superheroes with an expiration dateViewer mail, show & tell, and the usual collector chaos included.Thanks for your patience - and remember: being late is just pre-retro.Support the show by becoming a channel member and help us bring you more show coverage, deep dives, and collector talk every week.🔔 Like, subscribe, and join the channel for member-only episodes, live streams, and bonus Show & Tell segments.⭐ SUPPORT THE SHOWBecome a Member for $2.99/month and get:• Members-only live streams• Bonus Show & Tell episodes• On-screen shoutoutsJOIN → https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkHTY1eNYHr9JoTndx_m6kA/join📬 VIEWER MAILSend questions to:bronzeandmoderngods@gmail.com

This week, John and Richard break down why Superman #34 — specifically the Mario Foccillo variant inspired by Dragon Ball Z — has suddenly become a Hot Book of the Week, with copies already selling up to $41 on eBay.Plus:• Old Fart Rule: Champions #1 (Eclipse Comics, 1986) — a rare early example of a tabletop RPG successfully crossing into comics• Underrated Books of the Week:– The Black Terror #1 (1943) — Golden Age patriotism with real collector heat– Plop! #1 (1973) — DC’s bizarre humor-horror anthology with legendary creators• Viewer mail, Show & Tell, and moreIf you care about why books move, not just which ones are “hot,” this episode’s for you.Support the show by becoming a channel member and help us bring you more show coverage, deep dives, and collector talk every week.🔔 Like, subscribe, and join the channel for member-only episodes, live streams, and bonus Show & Tell segments.⭐ SUPPORT THE SHOWBecome a Member for $2.99/month and get:• Members-only live streams• Bonus Show & Tell episodes• On-screen shoutoutsJOIN → https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkHTY1eNYHr9JoTndx_m6kA/join📬 VIEWER MAILSend questions to:bronzeandmoderngods@gmail.com

This week on the show, John and Richard review and recap this year‘s Cal Comic Con, and then show off all the comic books they acquired at this very special convention! There are some serious surprises in store! Support the show by becoming a channel member and help us bring you more show coverage, deep dives, and collector talk every week.🔔 Like, subscribe, and join the channel for member-only episodes, live streams, and bonus Show & Tell segments.⭐ SUPPORT THE SHOWBecome a Member for $2.99/month and get:• Members-only live streams• Bonus Show & Tell episodes• On-screen shoutoutsJOIN → https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkHT...📬 VIEWER MAILSend questions to:bronzeandmoderngods@gmail.com

This week on the show, a modern Spider-Man comic is suddenly on fire. Amazing Spider-Man #11 (2025) is surging with an +800% spike in sales after Marvel announced Symbie will be adapted for upcoming episodes of Spider-Man and His Amazing Friends. We break down why this $15 raw could be a sleeper modern key and what collectors should be watching next.We also rewind 25 years to 2001 for our 25 Year Rule, spotlighting Superboy’s Legion #1, a thoughtful DC miniseries that explores legacy, destiny, and what it really means to be a symbol.For Underrated Books of the Week, Richard brings Girls #1 from Image Comics, a genre-bending cult favorite that escalates from small-town mystery into full-blown sci-fi horror, while John digs into New X-Men #115, highlighting its iconic Wolverine cover and its place in the influential Morrison/Quitely era.Plus:– A Little Show & Tell– New Member shoutouts– Viewer mail– Collector talk, market notes, and sleeper picksIf you love key issues, smart speculation, and comics history with perspective, this one’s for you.Support the show by becoming a channel member and help us bring you more show coverage, deep dives, and collector talk every week.🔔 Like, subscribe, and join the channel for member-only episodes, live streams, and bonus Show & Tell segments.⭐ SUPPORT THE SHOWBecome a Member for $2.99/month and get:• Members-only live streams• Bonus Show & Tell episodes• On-screen shoutoutsJOIN → https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkHTY1eNYHr9JoTndx_m6kA/join📬 VIEWER MAILSend questions to:bronzeandmoderngods@gmail.com

One overlooked Bronze Age Spider-Man issue just woke up the market - and it’s not the one everyone usually talks about.This week on Bronze and Modern Gods, we break down Marvel Team-Up #141, the second appearance of Spider-Man’s black costume, which is suddenly surging as collectors revisit the real publication timeline. With copies jumping in sales and high-grade raws hitting new highs, we explain why this book matters, and why it’s been ignored for decades.Old Fart RuleWorld’s Finest Comics #322, the penultimate issue of a title that ran since 1941. Released during Crisis on Infinite Earths, it quietly closes the door on the classic Superman/Batman era and signals DC’s coming reinvention.Underrated Books of the Week• Teen Titans #75 — the elusive Adam Hughes 1:25 variant that has become a modern collector grail.• Our Love Story #5 — featuring a rare Jim Steranko romance story, proving that some of the most interesting Silver Age art lives far outside superhero books.Plus viewer mail, Show & Tell, and real-world market context from collectors who’ve been watching these books for years.⭐ SUPPORT THE SHOWBecome a Member for $2.99/month and get:• Members-only live streams• Bonus Show & Tell episodes• On-screen shoutoutsJOIN → https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkHTY1eNYHr9JoTndx_m6kA/join📬 VIEWER MAILSend questions to:bronzeandmoderngods@gmail.com

Doctor Doom once again takes center stage as Infamous Iron Man #1 surges after Marvel announces a major reprint push tied to Avengers: Doomsday. We break down why this 2016 series - featuring Doom as Iron Man and Tony Stark as an AI - is suddenly back on collectors’ radar.For this week’s 25 Year Rule, we rewind to Batgirl #1 (2000), the launch of Cassandra Cain’s solo series. We dig into why this book matters, how it redefined the Bat-family at the turn of the millennium, and what the current market looks like for high-grade copies.We also spotlight Underrated Books of the Week, including Marvel’s The ’Nam, a grounded and often overlooked war series that still offers strong historical storytelling at affordable prices, and a surprise modern Captain America #1 (2025) that’s already commanding attention — and dollars — on the secondary market.As always, we round things out with viewer mail, collector perspectives, and the kind of market context that helps separate real heat from temporary hype.⭐ SUPPORT THE SHOWBecome a Member for $2.99/month and get:• Members-only live streams• Bonus Show & Tell episodes• On-screen shoutoutsJOIN → https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkHTY1eNYHr9JoTndx_m6kA/join📬 VIEWER MAILSend questions to:bronzeandmoderngods@gmail.com

In this special episode, Richard, John, and friends take you on an epic tour of local comic book shops across Northeast Ohio! From hidden-gem back-issue bins to wall-to-wall new releases, we explore the heart of the local comic scene.We’re talking:🗯️ Rare Bronze Age finds🦸 Modern key issues🎨 Indie discoveries💬 Community vibes & shop history💰 Hunting for deals and grailsWhether you’re a seasoned collector, a casual reader, or just love the culture of comics, this episode is all about supporting local shops and celebrating the hobby that connects us all.📍 Filmed on location throughout Northeast Ohio📚 Comics • Collecting • Culture • Community👉 Like, Subscribe, and Ring the Bell so you don’t miss future shop tours, deep dives, and collector talk from Bronze & Modern Gods!#BronzeAndModernGods #ComicShopTour #LocalComicShops #NortheastOhio #ComicCollecting #BronzeAgeComics #ModernComics #LCS #SupportLocal⭐ SUPPORT THE SHOWBecome a Member for $2.99/month and get:• Members-only live streams• Bonus Show & Tell episodes• On-screen shoutoutsJOIN → https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkHTY1eNYHr9JoTndx_m6kA/join📬 VIEWER MAILSend questions to:bronzeandmoderngods@gmail.com

This week on Bronze and Modern Gods, we’ve got a packed episode—market heat, classic keys, and a deep-dive interview with one of the greats.🔥 HOT BOOK OF THE WEEK — GRIM #1 (BOOM! Studios, 2022)It’s surging again!Renewed heat thanks to an adult-animated adaptation in development at NetflixRaw copies jumping back up to $10+ on eBayFour printings to keep track of👴 OLD FART RULE — UNCANNY X-MEN #200 (1985)A massive turning point in X-Men history:Magneto stands trial for crimes against humanity!🎙️ INTERVIEW: PAT BRODERICKWe sit down with legendary artist Pat Broderick, known for:Captain Atom, Micronauts, Batman: Year Three, and so much more!Pat takes us through:The evolution of his career across Marvel & DCHis artistic process and storytelling sensibilitiesWorking with iconic writers and editorsBehind-the-scenes insights from some of his most celebrated runs⭐ SUPPORT THE SHOWBecome a Member for $2.99/month and get:• Members-only live streams• Bonus Show & Tell episodes• On-screen shoutoutsJOIN → https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkHTY1eNYHr9JoTndx_m6kA/join📬 VIEWER MAILSend questions to:bronzeandmoderngods@gmail.com

This week on Bronze and Modern Gods, we sit down with legendary writer Mike Baron, the co-creator of Nexus and The Badger, Eisner winner, and one of the true originals of independent comics. We dig into his creative process, his groundbreaking work at First Comics, his time at Marvel and DC, and the stories behind some of his most iconic characters.Plus, we kick off the show with our regular segments:🔥 HOT BOOK OF THE WEEKGEIGER 80-Page Giant #1 (Image, 2022)First appearance of Redcoat (now in development for a feature film from Atlas Entertainment!)👍 Like, subscribe, and hit the bell so you never miss an episode!💬 Drop your thoughts in the comments — what’s your favorite Mike Baron run?⭐ SUPPORT THE SHOWBecome a Member for $2.99/month and get:• Members-only live streams• Bonus Show & Tell episodes• On-screen shoutoutsJOIN → https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkHTY1eNYHr9JoTndx_m6kA/join📬 VIEWER MAILSend questions to:bronzeandmoderngods@gmail.com

This week’s episode features one of the most honest, emotional, and relatable conversations we’ve ever had on the show. Our guest - a friend and lifelong comic collector in our age group - has made the decision to sell his entire comic collection, including some truly rare and high-value Golden Age books.We dig deep into:• Why now? What pushed him to finally let go• The emotional impact of parting with books collected over decades• How nostalgia, space, money, and mortality all play roles• What he wishes he had known before starting the process• His advice for collectors who may be approaching a similar crossroadsFor anyone who has ever collected anything - or wondered what it feels like to leave that behind - this is a can’t-miss interview.⭐ ALSO IN THIS EPISODEMarvel reveals new True Believer Blind Bags launching with Daredevil #1 by Stephanie Phillips & Lee Garbett. Fun? Gimmick? We break down what it means for collectors and shops.Hot Book of the Week: X-Men #104 (1977)A Bronze Age key experiencing major heat!⭐ SUPPORT THE SHOWBecome a Member for $2.99/month and get:• Members-only live streams• Bonus Show & Tell episodes• On-screen shoutoutsJOIN → https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkHTY1eNYHr9JoTndx_m6kA/join📬 VIEWER MAILSend questions to: bronzeandmoderngods@gmail.com

This week on Bronze and Modern Gods, we’re diving into DC’s most buzzed-about new release — Absolute Batman Annual #1! It’s got the origin of the Absolute Batmobile, a controversial story that’s already sparking debate, and sales heating up fast on eBay.Then, for our 25 Year Rule, we revisit Black Panther #23 (2000) — part two of a hilarious and underrated crossover with Deadpool from writer Christopher Priest and artist Sal Velluto.And in Underrated Books of the Week, we’re looking at Tomboy #1 (Action Lab, 2015) — a bloody, magical-girl revenge story — plus Marvel Premiere #55 (1980), a forgotten Wonder Man solo adventure that still shines today.👉 Support the show & join here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkHTY1eNYHr9JoTndx_m6kA/join📧 Send your viewer mail to: BronzeAndModernGods@gmail.com📲 Follow us on Instagram & Facebook: @bronzeandmoderngods

A special episode, as we’re joined by the legendary Mark Evanier — writer, historian, and one of comics’ most versatile voices — to celebrate the release of his new book, The Essential Peanuts by Charles M. Schulz: The Greatest Comic Strip of All Time.Mark talks about the enduring genius of Charles Schulz, why Peanuts remains so emotionally powerful 75 years later, and what made the strip so hard to adapt into comic book form. We also dive into his long career, from working with Jack Kirby, to writing Blackhawk and Crossfire, to co-writing the hilariously timeless Groo the Wanderer with Sergio Aragonés.If you love comics history, classic creators, and stories from inside the industry, this one’s for you.👉 The Essential Peanuts by Charles M. Schulz: The Greatest Comic Strip of All Time is available now wherever books are sold or from Amazon - https://amzn.to/4nALBYWIf you enjoy the show, consider becoming a Channel Member for bonus live streams, extended Show & Tell, and more perks every Thursday. Just hit JOIN next to Subscribe!👉 Support the show & join here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkHTY1eNYHr9JoTndx_m6kA/join📧 Send your viewer mail to: BronzeAndModernGods@gmail.com📲 Follow us on Instagram & Facebook: @bronzeandmoderngods

We’re back with another Monday edition of Bronze and Modern Gods! And this week’s Hot Book of the Week is a wild one…Howard the Duck #12 (Marvel, 1977) — the forgotten Marvel/KISS crossover that’s suddenly hot again after the passing of rock legend Ace Frehley. Gerber, Colan, and real-world rock history — all in one late Bronze Age gem.Plus:The Old Fart RuleRobotech Masters #1 (Comico, 1985) — early anime hype, Mike Baron scripting, and one thin white cover away from scarcity.Underrated Books of the Week:Mark Millar’s Unfunnies — First Follies (Avatar)Two-Gun Kid #77 (Marvel, 1965) featuring a masked vigilante called The Panther — a full year before T’Challa!And, of course — Show & Tell, Viewer Mail, and all the usual hobby mischief.If you enjoy the show, consider becoming a Channel Member for bonus live streams, extended Show & Tell, and more perks every Thursday. Just hit JOIN next to Subscribe!👉 Support the show & join here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkHTY1eNYHr9JoTndx_m6kA/join📧 Send your viewer mail to: BronzeAndModernGods@gmail.com📲 Follow us on Instagram & Facebook: @bronzeandmoderngods

This week on Bronze and Modern Gods, we’ve got a wild mix of hidden treasures and market movers!💥 HOT BOOK OF THE WEEK: Salvation Run #1 (DC, 2007) — Sales are up over 3,000% after the “Peacemaker” finale introduced the prison planet Salvation! We’ll break down what’s driving the heat, which cover to grab, and how high this one could go.🕷 25 YEAR RULE: Steve Ditko’s Static (2000) — A look at one of Ditko’s final self-published works, created completely outside the mainstream. Rare, philosophical, and pure Ditko.💄 UNDERRATED BOOK OF THE WEEK: Patsy and Hedy Annual #1 (1963) — A forgotten Marvel “girls’ title” with paper dolls, humor, and scarce high-grade survivors. Why collectors are starting to pay attention to these overlooked Silver Age books.📬 Plus, viewer mail, show & tell, and more from John & Richard!#ComicBooks #BronzeAndModernGods #SalvationRun #SteveDitko #MarvelComics #PatsyAndHedy👉 Support the show & join here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkHTY1eNYHr9JoTndx_m6kA/join📧 Send your viewer mail to: BronzeAndModernGods@gmail.com📲 Follow us on Instagram & Facebook: @bronzeandmoderngods