At the top of my personal key list is the first comic book I ever bought (age 8 in 1978)--Sgt. Rock #320. Great Kubert cover and a story where Sgt. Rock goes to the Pacific Theater. Talk about "read to death!" My original copy was lost (with the rest of my collection) in house fire but I've since replaced it and just seeing it really takes me back. I was spending the summer with my grandparents in Western Pennsylvania and my great aunt would slide me five or ten bucks every couple of days. She'd walk to the (actually named), "Corner News Stand" every day to play the lottery (she won $250K a few years later) and let me loose on the multiple spinner racks of comics. Miss those days!
I think I lived through you vicariously while reading this. That sounds like such a pleasant time and memories! minus the house fire... sorry to hear that man. I'll have to check out that Sgt Rock 320!
Now this the kind of comic video I scour CZcams for... no spec, no slabs, no flipping.... just talking comic book stories that are fun, entertaining, and interesting.
Hell yeah - I'm glad I could meet your needs Will! I made that sound dirtier than it needed to be - but it's my pleasure! I've got a Batman version coming out soon
I was into Spectre from growing up in the 80s. Justice Society, Justice league crossovers, All Star-Squadron which is a title I highly recomend. Led into reading and collecting Flash and Spectre series in the 90s. I started around Terminal velocity. Gave up after Waid's run on the comic. I found Emerald twilight and started trying to keep up with zero hour and Hal Jordan. Including Hal Jordan Spirit of Redemption. Two single issues The Final days of the JSA explaining their last mission post Crisis where they vanished from the face of the Earth. A story picked up in the sequel series to a crossover circa 92/92? Armegeddon 2001. One of 3 Superman tie ins. This one Superman becomes President of the USA. He also wills Guy Gardner's ring off of Guy's finger and on to his own. Armegeddon Inferno will bring the JSA back to DC comics post crisis New Earth. Armegeddon 2001 introduced Monarch and Waverider. It actually also introduced Hawk and Dove. I had only seen the brothers in the main COIE books. Never was a teen titans fan. But there is a recomend. Also I read that JLA run with Plastic man. Coolest part, his kid showing off his powers and shape changing being superior to his dad cause he can change colour and Dad can't. Except...😉
It’s always great to hear about awesome stories that you might have missed or forgotten about. Single story issues or arcs, I’d love to watch more of these in a variety of incarnations.
I have and read 6 out of 10. The Specter run in the 90’s was one of the best reads that gets overlooked constantly. One of my favorites is Lobo Paramilitary Christmas Special. Hysterical Giffen story and awesome Biz artwork.
I'd say I own and have read 7 on the list. I'M down for a lot more of these and also the Batman suggestion. The Spectre run by Ostrander and Mandrake is totally underated so I'd love a video on that as well!
Yup that Birds of Prey issue is a classic and so is all the 90s Spectre stuff. Sandman Mystery Theatre never got enough love........love the Panther shirt James....a Byrne classic! 😃
James my man, you have one of the best comic book related channels ever. I love that you actually talk about reading comics. Not just about what’s hot right now and stuff like that. I’ve always wanted someone I could talk all things comics with. My favorite stories, my favorite single issues. I think collecting today has put a huge emphasis on buying keys, and not actually reading the stories inside. Anyways some of my all time favorite stories come from the Ron Frenz and Roger stern run on ASM. Hobgoblin has always been one of my favorite villains because of that run. Keep up the great work bro
Derek, I greatly appreciate the compliment. I'm glad you think so - I try to just let my fandomeness speak for itself and that seems to just do the trick!
Finally non key issues getting some love that are “keys” to us. I remember as a kid reading over and over the Predator vs Alien mini comics that came with the action figures lol! Loved this video dude. This was quite an awesome list of issues and it’d be cool to see more in the future
Challengers of the Unknown issues 82-87. Gerry Conway ends the 1st volume of the Challengers with a progressive team up story that bands the Challengers with Swamp Thing, Deadman and Rip Hunter. Just pure awesome sauce.
I am more of a Marvel guy but really enjoyed this, that spectre 5 is for sure a book a will pick up, my vote is to make a bunch of these, keep em comin!
Great video. A comic that always tugs at the heartstrings is Green Lantern Corps 1 and the story of Ch’p and the wife who does not recognize him. I showed this to my son and daughter last night. There is a strong dichotomy between this story and the cheerful appearance of the character.
A lot of the early Golden age plastic Man stories are quite great and weird there's one where he fights a pair of severed hands that is somehow animated by a mobster and send out robbing and murdering people It's a very dark story but somehow the imagery of plastic man fighting a pair of hands is just balance so well
The Ostrander Specter series and the DeMatteis/Giffen Justice League run beat the hell out of the majority of stuff being published today. All issues of both series, but especially the JL issues with Maguire art, qualify as way underrated/overlooked. The only collector love either tend to get is for Mr. Terrific's first appearance in some higher number of the Specter series and the variant edition of JL #3.
Good choices man! and yes indeed that Spectre run specifically was just out of this world. That's why I always believe that DC does comics better than Marvel - they take more risks
This is some of my favorite comic content on youtube so far this year. Please do more. I have only recently started seriously collecting DC and now I have some specific books to look out for beyond the runs I am working on.
I think my favorite obscure stuff that I have fond memories reading as a kid in the 80's was the Marvel New Universe stuff like D.P.7, Justice, Psi-Force, Spitfire, Star Brand (I think Star Brand has been reintroduced in recent years). They may have been crap since I haven't read them in a long, long time and my oldtimers is probably remembering them incorrectly, but I do remember enjoying them way back then.
That stuff you remember from your childhood are still awesome! Even sometimes if they're objectively "bad" which I'm sure those issues aren't, they still served a valuable purpose in your life 🤘
Bird of Prey #8 is always a classic. Love the cover! Adventures of Superman #14 - great look at Joker meeting Superman Adventures of Superman #11 - Superman meets a Green Lantern with a great twist Batman/ planetary Special - the art is amazing and classic Batman versions are great. Weird that I named Superman issues, when it’s Batman that usually comes to mind when I think of great issues! Thanks for sharing this list!!
Glad I watched this, I think I'll go to my local comic shop and try to find some of them. I grew up in the 80s and my favorite comics series was Quantum Leap. Most people probably don't have them, but I loved them.
I've read at least some, if not all, of the Bolland story and the Bats/Plas team-up. I don't own either of them, but the panels you posted rung a bell.
I am happy to say I have all these. Having grown up a DC guy and with almost 50 years of collecting behind me, I have been able to get these. Green Lantern especially!!! Between GL and Nightwing they are my two favorite DC characters.
@@MintHunterComics Well...I have every GL issue from Showcase 22 to the present... something I am hugely proud of. I would say Hal and Kyle are my two favorites. How about you?
@@Sector2815 Oh WOW. I can not find a showcase 22 (in any condition) to save my life. Good for you man. Kyle and Hal for sure. Then John Stewart, then Guy, then Jessica, then simon
great list, lots of awesome stories and I've never even heard of any of these books. My two "unknown" favorites (not from DC, though) are Marvel Comics Presents #97 and #98. It's a great Wolverine story, and picked them up for only 30 cents each at a small toy store in San Francisco, never heard of these books before. Fantastic video, would love to see more from this series. You should do one of these videos on unknown Marvel comics, too.
Would love to see more of these vids!!! People talk about runs too much and not just single issues! Also Birds of Prey #8 is extremely underrated, one of my favorite comics with Dick and Barbara!
I just did my Top 50 and it consists of a lot of DC Comics. I am a DC guy. I am not into the Marvel fascination that is eating up the spec market even though I do have some Marvel keys. I have more than a few TOP DC spec videos in the pipeline which is why I am so happy to see you make this video! DC needs more love! I quite enjoyed this. The only issue I don't have is Spectre #5. The JLA 65 is actually a key issue (first appearance of Plastic Man's son) that (I hope) will one day get more love --- if Plastic Man ever hits the big screen! [And I Love pretty much anything written by Mark Waid! I hope he is secretly writing Superman comics for DC right now or is at least on their radar moving forward.]
That's a KEY? hahaha who knew! great comic indeed - yes I agree I LOVE Marvel movies and think they are able to make better movies by far but for me DC owns comics and video games
@@MintHunterComics - To be clear, The JLA 65 is a KEY to ME! Nobody seems to care about Plastic Man or his mythology and so I feel like an Outlier with DC sometimes. And I agree with you about DC owning comics and video games. Injustice rules both video and alternate DC universe stories!
WOW! What a great list! Let's have some more!... I used to love that Flash issue where he is blown out of a plane with a stewardess and has to kick his legs to slow the fall and save them both. Feels like it should be an iconic story that all Flash fans should know!
A few of mine... Superman #76 - Superman is recently dead, and a number of other heroes are on hand to fill in his tradition of reading and answering his mail during the holiday season. Meanwhile, Jimmy and Bibbo help a runaway boy pay his condolences to Superman. A must-read for me every Christmas. JLA #42 - The Atom shrinks a few Leaguers down to enter a sick child's body and negotiate with the sentient microbes causing the sickness. Surprisingly serious, despite the goofy sounding premise. Aquaman Annual #2 - Really, the entire Dead Earth even could fit here, lots of great stand-alone issues, but I'm picking this one specifically for the premise of two travelers having a contest to see who can tell the better story, and be allowed passage by the other. I could go on...
I have read 1 of those issues. Cool video. A comic I loved that's not a key or anything is What If Vol. 2 no. 25. Lots of great characters in an all-out event showdown. One thing really cool about it is the end, which actually opens up the possibility for a continuation in the 616 universe. It'll probably never happen, but I'll keep hoping!
10 for 10 I’ve read and still have of these books. I’ve got complete runs on most DC titles going back to 1978. I like the video, a great way to showcase some noteworthy issues that don’t necessarily have a “value” other than a great story. Side note I think all issues have value if you’re collector
I bet I’ve read 5-6 of those, but one of my faves was Batman: shadow of the bat #5, the black spider. Just a cool story and great action and mystery. I read this over and over when I was younger. Would love to see more videos like this one for sure.
Love this list and please do more. I had read the specter and flash #0 and low and behold never read any of the others. Great story summaries. I mean you killed it
Older comic would be rising stars 🌟 I loved that series. Few years ago, the Silencer.. super fun. Most recent, The DC Endless Winter specials was a great read.
Bro, this was one of the most original uploads I've seen in a long time. It's so refreshing to finally watch a video that doesn't have to do with the "crazy" market. I've honestly never read any of these books, but I can't wait to delve into these runs and read these fantastic stories. Spectre 5 looks dope AF! Please create a series for this type of content!
Glad you enjoyed it! Don't be afraid to go dollar bin diving and see if you can't find solid stories that aren't "notable" for any 1st appearances or deaths!
Thanks for the great suggestions. Actually have "Batman Black & White" TPB containing all four issues. It's a good read on dark and rainy Autumn nights with a cup of Green Tea.
I know, have and love that Spectre story. I love anything well done with the Spectre. I've seen that comic with the Batman and Plasticman story, and look forward to getting ang reading it.
My pick? Justice Inc. 1-2 by Writer: Andrew Helfer/Art: Kyle Baker. I feel it is safe to say - I am one of the few people who knows about this "series". I always thought Helfer's run on the The Shadow was underrated and I love this mini-series' idea (a chameleon spy gets exploited by the US government) and execution and to put it over the top you get Kyle Baker coming in with perfect art. Thanks for sharing your picks - Love your B&W Batman pick - it is a run everyone should read.
OH MAN! that just brought me back - I AHVE read this but years ago and I completely forgot about it until your comment! I gotta find that issue 1 - I have no idea where it would be
Hulk 333 still reigns supreme for me. Peter David. Who is the real monster? The cover. The art and the story. Still my fav standalone after all these years of reading thousands of comic books.
I've only read 1 of these, which was that first one by Bolland, it was included in the Deluxe Edition of The Killing Joke with full colour. This is a good series, as a primarily DC fan, I'd also enjoy more of this type of content 💯
Personally I haven't read any of these story's except the jla as young me loved that series. But the books I'd recomend would be the questions #17. Some people call it a key cause it references watchmen but honestly I just love the fact that the question who inspired roreshack is trying to be roreshack only for it to back fire and him to call roreshacks methods into question. There's just some metamind games going on. I love Denny oniels work in general as he worked on a ton of underrated stuff.
Amazing Spider-Man Annual 25 the 2 page Villain overview. Atlantis Attacks was the first crossover that I collected and I was just in awe of that 2 page overview Addendum...I've had the pleasure of reading all these books except the Grayson. Own but haven't read it. I worked as a Night Auditor for a hotel for years and was able to read a vast amount of comics since I only had an hour of actual work. I just kept buying whole runs on top of the books that were coming out...and that is how I went from Night Auditor to running my LCS. And Definitely do a Batman rare video. Im all for discovering books I may have not read because the list is getting really slim.
really love this new series you are doing on the channel. Definitely do the top 10 Batman stories as I would like to hear what your picks would be. My first Batman stories I ever read as well as collect was The Shadow of the Bat and of course Legends of the Dark Knight.
My top read comic has gotta be Spiderman and Batman. Its such a great story and my 2 favourite characters in one. Plus the dynamic that the Joker and Carnage have is so damn good. Havnt read any of those books listed but i have read some earlier spectre books and hearing about that issue makes me wanna read the rest of them!
Batman Gotham Adventures 33. Bruce wonders what a world without Batman would be like. In comes the Phantom stranger to show him bits and pieces of his tragic live that changed. It had some What If scenarios like Robin joining the Joker gang. Selena Kyle and Bruce getting married. A real heart melting eye opener. Grab yourself a copy on eBay fast.
Also I would argue people def know about birds of prey 8 and that it is viewed as a key. Routinely sells well at cons and online from what I’ve seen but is one you can stumble upon
Mazing Man #1, Firestorm #24 Blue Devil 16page preview, Thriller #1, Ambush Bug Stocking Stuffer, Wonderful wonderful stuff from The New DC era .Best wishes
They may start talking about G.G again since the HBO show is kinda putting him on blast a bit! we'll see! I read the guy gardner series a LTO when I was a kid
Please do more. I'm not reading many new comics so anything from the past is great. I have oly read the Captain Cold story from your list and I agree it is a great story.
Just discovered your channel. I haven't seen another video you've done but I adored this! I'm a DC guy and I don't care for spec, so this was just pure delight! With the books you never heard of I was wondering if books like Jonni thunder or Jemm might of been on here. I'm definitely interested in more of this!
Glad you enjoyed it! it seems that a lot of people are sick of spec and since no one can afford giant books anymore it's honestly pretty fun to just chat about the books the one loved (even if for no reason other than pure enjoyment!) nice username haha
Thanks! Yeah, when I returned to comics a couple years ago I was very surprised by slabbing books and that being the "priority" in collecting. Flipping a book is something I still can't wrap my wrinkly old brain around. I came into comics in the 90's. Death of Superman & image are my foundations. None of which are worth much despite the thoughts at the time. I think that carried with me through the years and I'm less worried about money and more about collecting and, more importantly, reading for fun. That's one of the best things about this hobby though I suppose. There's so many different ways to go about it. There's something for everyone. Even non-comic fans! I'm looking forward to going through more of your videos. I took a quick peak yesterday and it looks like you have lots of fun content. Have a great day, man!
One random book that I has a special place in my heart is Spider-Man #7, the Todd McFarlane series, simply because it was the first comic book I've ever owned, and I still have it to this day
Batman & robin the boy wonder #9 when Batman painted the whole room, himself and robin yellow just to piss of green lantern 😂 and sipped lemonade while he had a melt down 😂
Really enjoyed this video! Great job. I can honestly say I have 6 of the issues - never collected much Flash and the Grayson issue came out when I had cooled down on purchasing new issues. I will go and check them out now. Have debated with myself for some time whether to slab my BOP #8. Many choices for future segments. I'll throw out Legion of Super-Heroes.
Oh My God. You will not believe this, but Green Lantern Annual #4 was the first Green Lantern comic I ever read, AND it is what made me a fan of Kyle and the franchise, The same is true for Flash #0, and....well... Flash. The Spectre comic that would make my best you never heard of list is #20, when the JSA tell tales of how they knew Jim back in the day, and realizing that even the original club of heroes, the kindly guys who paved the way, sort of viewed Jim as an outsider.
YES Lou! so underrated (and unknown) that's awesome to hear. I used to read it a LOT - my copy looks like trash hahaha. honestly anything Spectre is awesome lol
I've read the Captain Cold Flash issue and the Flash #0. I am now going to find Justice league Annual and the Spectre Those 2 sound awesome. One the story's I love is a more recent story, not by DC, Called Huck. Just an all around good story. Its out in trade now. Great show as always. 😁
There are definitely some neat sounding stories on this list, going to have to track some down. As far as a comic that I read a lot and love. GI JOE #61,it's not some huge key,it's not obscure, but it's my very first comic ever. So it holds a very special place in my comic history.
The ones I've read are Spectre #5, Robin #46 (actually read most of Robin at that point), and Birds of Prey #8.....two of my favorite reads of all-time happen to be DC comics (which is weird, because I'm normally a Marvel guy, but I like a good story sometimes).....are Death: the High Cost of Living (best comic I've read in my opinion) and Lobo's Back (just the most insane and hilarious comic I've read)....they're mini series, but they're great and definitely my top two favorite reads.
This is actually the second post i've read where people are recommending Lobo! Idk what it is but I avoided him for so many years and I'm really finding out how much of a mistake that was! thanks for the recommendation
I actually read or have some of these issues. But they were not particularly memorable... As a comic book collector, I pay attention to the art first and story second. Top DC comics have to be Kingdom Come and Planetary and Saga (with the Image Imprint) -all with great art and stories. Honorable mention to Crisis on Infinite Earths and New Teen Titans Judas Contract storyline. But on individual floppy issues and being a New Teen Titans fan, Who is Donna Troy issue. As a kid, I hated that issue since there was no supervillian or hero action. But reading it as an grown up, it was a lovely issue to friendship between Robin and Wonder Girl. There was also an issue of Legion Of Superheroes that was very good -regarding Timber Wolf and Karate Kid. But thanks for the memories for bringing up some of these issues.
I've done plenty of those haha - key comic videos are honestly less fun to make than these deep dive vids! but as they come up I'll do the occasional key based vids
I really love the poison tomorrow with green arrow and batman omg so good lol. Also ASM happy birthday part 1-3 it's the most emotional story I've read of spiderman and my favorite Jess cruz is a day in the life green lanterns I think 15 I have so much love for Jessica Cruz
Ooh yeah good choice - I actually do know that and have read that! Ironically I don't think Iv'e read that Jessica Cruz Issue maybe I need to make that a priority
Great video. I’m up for any list that ranks good stories from the late 80’s through now. I was out of comics by ‘83 and have just got back into them in the last 18 months. I got a lot of catching up to do. Lol
This is great. Real comic book reader sharing amazing stories to the community. Made me subscribe to your channel. More of this please. One story I absolutely love is Batman #23 (2017), where Swamp Thing was able to completely fool batman. Great art & dialogues in this book.
I’ve read and own most of these minus the robin, Grayson ones. Titles I always recommend are Spectre, Starman (Jack Knight). Planetary, and Transmetropolitan. Single issues include…Secret Origins Annual Vol 3. Issue 2. Flash Vol.2 issues 30, 54, 79, and 91. Sgt Rock 348.
At the top of my personal key list is the first comic book I ever bought (age 8 in 1978)--Sgt. Rock #320. Great Kubert cover and a story where Sgt. Rock goes to the Pacific Theater. Talk about "read to death!" My original copy was lost (with the rest of my collection) in house fire but I've since replaced it and just seeing it really takes me back. I was spending the summer with my grandparents in Western Pennsylvania and my great aunt would slide me five or ten bucks every couple of days. She'd walk to the (actually named), "Corner News Stand" every day to play the lottery (she won $250K a few years later) and let me loose on the multiple spinner racks of comics. Miss those days!
I think I lived through you vicariously while reading this. That sounds like such a pleasant time and memories! minus the house fire... sorry to hear that man. I'll have to check out that Sgt Rock 320!
Sgt Rock - every issue. Every single one.
Now this the kind of comic video I scour CZcams for... no spec, no slabs, no flipping.... just talking comic book stories that are fun, entertaining, and interesting.
Hell yeah - I'm glad I could meet your needs Will! I made that sound dirtier than it needed to be - but it's my pleasure! I've got a Batman version coming out soon
That Spectre run is awesome! Under underrated for sure
So underrated - I never hear anyone talking about it
That story sounded amazing I’m a huge Hellblazer Swamp thing fan and that book gave me serious vibes of them
I was into Spectre from growing up in the 80s. Justice Society, Justice league crossovers, All Star-Squadron which is a title I highly recomend. Led into reading and collecting Flash and Spectre series in the 90s. I started around Terminal velocity. Gave up after Waid's run on the comic. I found Emerald twilight and started trying to keep up with zero hour and Hal Jordan. Including Hal Jordan Spirit of Redemption.
Two single issues The Final days of the JSA explaining their last mission post Crisis where they vanished from the face of the Earth. A story picked up in the sequel series to a crossover circa 92/92? Armegeddon 2001. One of 3 Superman tie ins. This one Superman becomes President of the USA. He also wills Guy Gardner's ring off of Guy's finger and on to his own.
Armegeddon Inferno will bring the JSA back to DC comics post crisis New Earth. Armegeddon 2001 introduced Monarch and Waverider. It actually also introduced Hawk and Dove. I had only seen the brothers in the main COIE books. Never was a teen titans fan. But there is a recomend. Also I read that JLA run with Plastic man. Coolest part, his kid showing off his powers and shape changing being superior to his dad cause he can change colour and Dad can't. Except...😉
Always happy to see the spectre showing up, hes nothing crazy, but it can really go off the rails
It should be a rule of thumb that if it's a Spectre story - it's good lol
It’s always great to hear about awesome stories that you might have missed or forgotten about. Single story issues or arcs, I’d love to watch more of these in a variety of incarnations.
Glad you enjoyed it!
I have and read 6 out of 10. The Specter run in the 90’s was one of the best reads that gets overlooked constantly. One of my favorites is Lobo Paramilitary Christmas Special. Hysterical Giffen story and awesome Biz artwork.
I've been becoming more and more of a lobo fan. -weirdly enough I ignored him for so many years and I've been learning that that was a mistake
I have that Green Lantern annual, it's one of my favorites...really helps Hal & Kyle understand each other by walking in each others shoes
I'm so glad you think so - the people that know of that book is a short list haha
I read that book.
I'd say I own and have read 7 on the list. I'M down for a lot more of these and also the Batman suggestion. The Spectre run by Ostrander and Mandrake is totally underated so I'd love a video on that as well!
That may just come! I'm doing a Batman version of this - filming this weekend
Batman Black and White are very unique stories. Not surprised that Ostrander's Spectre made your list. I'd love to see more of this series.
It's just so solid! Maybe I'll do a video on it some day
Yup that Birds of Prey issue is a classic and so is all the 90s Spectre stuff. Sandman Mystery Theatre never got enough love........love the Panther shirt James....a Byrne classic! 😃
Thank you sir! I didn't know how strongly people felt on BOP #8! turns out it's almost a mini key to some folks but I love it!
Yesssss! I’m new to collecting and love hearing about the badass issues I’ve never known about before!! Please do a series! 😆
Imma do a Marvel and Batman versions of this vid! It's time to give love to comics that aren't just "1st appearances!" lol
James my man, you have one of the best comic book related channels ever. I love that you actually talk about reading comics. Not just about what’s hot right now and stuff like that. I’ve always wanted someone I could talk all things comics with. My favorite stories, my favorite single issues. I think collecting today has put a huge emphasis on buying keys, and not actually reading the stories inside. Anyways some of my all time favorite stories come from the Ron Frenz and Roger stern run on ASM. Hobgoblin has always been one of my favorite villains because of that run. Keep up the great work bro
Derek, I greatly appreciate the compliment. I'm glad you think so - I try to just let my fandomeness speak for itself and that seems to just do the trick!
Finally non key issues getting some love that are “keys” to us. I remember as a kid reading over and over the Predator vs Alien mini comics that came with the action figures lol! Loved this video dude. This was quite an awesome list of issues and it’d be cool to see more in the future
Dude on that note how about them Batman Vs Predator Comics! I read those to death
@@MintHunterComics Yup!
Challengers of the Unknown issues 82-87. Gerry Conway ends the 1st volume of the Challengers with a progressive team up story that bands the Challengers with Swamp Thing, Deadman and Rip Hunter. Just pure awesome sauce.
Amazing Spider-Man 354 was the first floppy comic I ever owned and even though it's the middle of a longer story and super random, I totally love it.
Dude anything from ASM issues 1-441 are fantastic - love that Spidey goodness! I remember always liking a crappy copy of 390 lol
I am more of a Marvel guy but really enjoyed this, that spectre 5 is for sure a book a will pick up, my vote is to make a bunch of these, keep em comin!
Please do - it's such a solid and creepy one time story
Was just at my LCS today and found that Justice League Annual in the dollar bins - picked it up right away! Thanks for the intro
Awesome! Such a cool book
I've always liked JLE, but I finally finished my original Pitt run. Love that whole story.
Great video.
A comic that always tugs at the heartstrings is Green Lantern Corps 1 and the story of Ch’p and the wife who does not recognize him. I showed this to my son and daughter last night. There is a strong dichotomy between this story and the cheerful appearance of the character.
Which volume is that? i don't remember that but that sounds like I'd love it
@@MintHunterComics sorry it got cut off I meant issue 201 (same issue as Kilowog’s first appearance)
A lot of the early Golden age plastic Man stories are quite great and weird there's one where he fights a pair of severed hands that is somehow animated by a mobster and send out robbing and murdering people It's a very dark story but somehow the imagery of plastic man fighting a pair of hands is just balance so well
The Ostrander Specter series and the DeMatteis/Giffen Justice League run beat the hell out of the majority of stuff being published today. All issues of both series, but especially the JL issues with Maguire art, qualify as way underrated/overlooked. The only collector love either tend to get is for Mr. Terrific's first appearance in some higher number of the Specter series and the variant edition of JL #3.
Good choices man! and yes indeed that Spectre run specifically was just out of this world. That's why I always believe that DC does comics better than Marvel - they take more risks
This is some of my favorite comic content on youtube so far this year. Please do more. I have only recently started seriously collecting DC and now I have some specific books to look out for beyond the runs I am working on.
Wow that's awesome Ron - you're too kind! I just like to talk! hahahaha
I think my favorite obscure stuff that I have fond memories reading as a kid in the 80's was the Marvel New Universe stuff like D.P.7, Justice, Psi-Force, Spitfire, Star Brand (I think Star Brand has been reintroduced in recent years).
They may have been crap since I haven't read them in a long, long time and my oldtimers is probably remembering them incorrectly, but I do remember enjoying them way back then.
That stuff you remember from your childhood are still awesome! Even sometimes if they're objectively "bad" which I'm sure those issues aren't, they still served a valuable purpose in your life 🤘
DP 7 was absolutely the best of the bunch when it came to Marvel’s New universe
Bird of Prey #8 is always a classic. Love the cover!
Adventures of Superman #14 - great look at Joker meeting Superman
Adventures of Superman #11
- Superman meets a Green Lantern with a great twist
Batman/ planetary Special - the art is amazing and classic Batman versions are great.
Weird that I named Superman issues, when it’s Batman that usually comes to mind when I think of great issues!
Thanks for sharing this list!!
I love that planetary special!!
Glad I watched this, I think I'll go to my local comic shop and try to find some of them. I grew up in the 80s and my favorite comics series was Quantum Leap. Most people probably don't have them, but I loved them.
Hunt em down! you'll find em in 50 cent bins! lol
I've read at least some, if not all, of the Bolland story and the Bats/Plas team-up. I don't own either of them, but the panels you posted rung a bell.
Great issues for sure - although I'm kind of a Bolland fanatic so I may be biased hahaha - sounds like you are too
I am happy to say I have all these. Having grown up a DC guy and with almost 50 years of collecting behind me, I have been able to get these. Green Lantern especially!!! Between GL and Nightwing they are my two favorite DC characters.
That's awesome man! who's your favorite GL?
@@MintHunterComics Well...I have every GL issue from Showcase 22 to the present... something I am hugely proud of. I would say Hal and Kyle are my two favorites. How about you?
@@Sector2815 Oh WOW. I can not find a showcase 22 (in any condition) to save my life. Good for you man. Kyle and Hal for sure. Then John Stewart, then Guy, then Jessica, then simon
great list, lots of awesome stories and I've never even heard of any of these books. My two "unknown" favorites (not from DC, though) are Marvel Comics Presents #97 and #98. It's a great Wolverine story, and picked them up for only 30 cents each at a small toy store in San Francisco, never heard of these books before. Fantastic video, would love to see more from this series. You should do one of these videos on unknown Marvel comics, too.
Glad you enjoyed! I'll be doing a Marvel version soon and a Batman specific one too
@@MintHunterComics I'm exited to see what you have on your batman list!
Would love to see more of these vids!!! People talk about runs too much and not just single issues! Also Birds of Prey #8 is extremely underrated, one of my favorite comics with Dick and Barbara!
Me too man! And I've got a Batman version of this in the works!
I just did my Top 50 and it consists of a lot of DC Comics. I am a DC guy. I am not into the Marvel fascination that is eating up the spec market even though I do have some Marvel keys. I have more than a few TOP DC spec videos in the pipeline which is why I am so happy to see you make this video! DC needs more love! I quite enjoyed this. The only issue I don't have is Spectre #5. The JLA 65 is actually a key issue (first appearance of Plastic Man's son) that (I hope) will one day get more love --- if Plastic Man ever hits the big screen! [And I Love pretty much anything written by Mark Waid! I hope he is secretly writing Superman comics for DC right now or is at least on their radar moving forward.]
That's a KEY? hahaha who knew! great comic indeed - yes I agree I LOVE Marvel movies and think they are able to make better movies by far but for me DC owns comics and video games
@@MintHunterComics - To be clear, The JLA 65 is a KEY to ME! Nobody seems to care about Plastic Man or his mythology and so I feel like an Outlier with DC sometimes. And I agree with you about DC owning comics and video games. Injustice rules both video and alternate DC universe stories!
WOW! What a great list! Let's have some more!... I used to love that Flash issue where he is blown out of a plane with a stewardess and has to kick his legs to slow the fall and save them both. Feels like it should be an iconic story that all Flash fans should know!
I think maybe I'll do a Flash version of this!
@@MintHunterComics Yay!👍
I could not agree with your more how important stories are with good characterization. Tim Drake is also my favorite Robin!
Tim Drake for the win! We need more good stories with him for sure
Hi James. I went ahead and ordered Batman Black and White set. Never heard of it. You really are a Batman nut. Thank you.
Ooohhhh you are going to be REALLY happy with those sets my friend, great shorts!
A few of mine...
Superman #76 - Superman is recently dead, and a number of other heroes are on hand to fill in his tradition of reading and answering his mail during the holiday season. Meanwhile, Jimmy and Bibbo help a runaway boy pay his condolences to Superman. A must-read for me every Christmas.
JLA #42 - The Atom shrinks a few Leaguers down to enter a sick child's body and negotiate with the sentient microbes causing the sickness. Surprisingly serious, despite the goofy sounding premise.
Aquaman Annual #2 - Really, the entire Dead Earth even could fit here, lots of great stand-alone issues, but I'm picking this one specifically for the premise of two travelers having a contest to see who can tell the better story, and be allowed passage by the other.
I could go on...
You should definitely continue to do this series.
I've got a Batman version in the works!
Hey you are a natural at storytelling !! would love to see more of this content !!!
Hahaha maybe! I've got a Batman one in the works
I have read 1 of those issues. Cool video. A comic I loved that's not a key or anything is What If Vol. 2 no. 25. Lots of great characters in an all-out event showdown. One thing really cool about it is the end, which actually opens up the possibility for a continuation in the 616 universe. It'll probably never happen, but I'll keep hoping!
Better than 0! I love stories like that man - little off elseworld and what if stories are often my favorite
10 for 10 I’ve read and still have of these books. I’ve got complete runs on most DC titles going back to 1978. I like the video, a great way to showcase some noteworthy issues that don’t necessarily have a “value” other than a great story. Side note I think all issues have value if you’re collector
That is awesome! good for you for being so on point with your reading! cheers John!
I bet I’ve read 5-6 of those, but one of my faves was Batman: shadow of the bat #5, the black spider. Just a cool story and great action and mystery. I read this over and over when I was younger. Would love to see more videos like this one for sure.
Ahhhh a deep cut! nice choice!
Please do more of these videos as a series. So glad I stumbled on this channel
Wow, the Spectre issue blow up my mind!!
Isn't that great?
Love this list and please do more. I had read the specter and flash #0 and low and behold never read any of the others. Great story summaries. I mean you killed it
Glad you think so my man! grab these when you can!
Older comic would be rising stars 🌟 I loved that series.
Few years ago, the Silencer.. super fun.
Most recent, The DC Endless Winter specials was a great read.
Oh MAN - I never got to read endless winter - I included the issues as a freebie in a box to a fan! oh well haha
Bro, this was one of the most original uploads I've seen in a long time. It's so refreshing to finally watch a video that doesn't have to do with the "crazy" market. I've honestly never read any of these books, but I can't wait to delve into these runs and read these fantastic stories. Spectre 5 looks dope AF! Please create a series for this type of content!
Glad you enjoyed it! Don't be afraid to go dollar bin diving and see if you can't find solid stories that aren't "notable" for any 1st appearances or deaths!
Please keep doing more of these! I really enjoyed this episode. I now have a list of books to add to my hunting list.
That's great to hear man - I'm glad you enjoyed these non keys!
@@MintHunterComics As much as I love seeing videos about keys, I like learning about good stories that I may have missed over the years.
These all sound like great reads. I haven't read any of these but after watching this, I would like to pick them up. Great video
You should! there's gold in those 50 cent bins!
Excellent video! I’m a huge dc fan as well. What a cool video that I like to see is, all of your comics and statues tour.
Glad you enjoyed! I've done room tour and comics tours check out my list of vids!
Thanks for the great suggestions. Actually have "Batman Black & White" TPB containing all four issues. It's a good read on dark and rainy Autumn nights with a cup of Green Tea.
So good man
I loved reading the WHOLE RUN OF SOVEREIGN SEVEN
The Wolverine cameo in the last book 👍🏿👍🏿
I’ve only read two of those, but now I’m intrigued about some you’ve mentioned.
Check em out man! Batman video in this same category dropping tomorrow!
I know, have and love that Spectre story. I love anything well done with the Spectre.
I've seen that comic with the Batman and Plasticman story, and look forward to getting ang reading it.
Def worth the read! and yes it's almost a rule of thumb that anything Spectre is great!
That’s why Bolland is one of the greatest creators of the last 40 years....one of the greatest comics draftsmen ever.
His line work.... so tasty
My pick? Justice Inc. 1-2 by Writer: Andrew Helfer/Art: Kyle Baker. I feel it is safe to say - I am one of the few people who knows about this "series". I always thought Helfer's run on the The Shadow was underrated and I love this mini-series' idea (a chameleon spy gets exploited by the US government) and execution and to put it over the top you get Kyle Baker coming in with perfect art.
Thanks for sharing your picks - Love your B&W Batman pick - it is a run everyone should read.
OH MAN! that just brought me back - I AHVE read this but years ago and I completely forgot about it until your comment! I gotta find that issue 1 - I have no idea where it would be
Hulk 333 still reigns supreme for me. Peter David. Who is the real monster? The cover. The art and the story. Still my fav standalone after all these years of reading thousands of comic books.
I know it! good choice man!
Hellblazer Issue 11... "Newcastle". This is a big part of John's origin story and creepy as hell. That was one of the comics that 'went there'.
NICE choice man - I agree
I've only read 1 of these, which was that first one by Bolland, it was included in the Deluxe Edition of The Killing Joke with full colour. This is a good series, as a primarily DC fan, I'd also enjoy more of this type of content 💯
Personally I haven't read any of these story's except the jla as young me loved that series. But the books I'd recomend would be the questions #17. Some people call it a key cause it references watchmen but honestly I just love the fact that the question who inspired roreshack is trying to be roreshack only for it to back fire and him to call roreshacks methods into question. There's just some metamind games going on. I love Denny oniels work in general as he worked on a ton of underrated stuff.
Anything from the Question run is honestly a good pick - that and Hitman is what I've always considered a massively underrated run
Love that GL annual. Still have my beat up original too
Hahaha to say it's a reader copy in an understatement - great comic!
Amazing Spider-Man Annual 25 the 2 page Villain overview. Atlantis Attacks was the first crossover that I collected and I was just in awe of that 2 page overview
Addendum...I've had the pleasure of reading all these books except the Grayson. Own but haven't read it. I worked as a Night Auditor for a hotel for years and was able to read a vast amount of comics since I only had an hour of actual work. I just kept buying whole runs on top of the books that were coming out...and that is how I went from Night Auditor to running my LCS.
And Definitely do a Batman rare video. Im all for discovering books I may have not read because the list is getting really slim.
Wow 9 out of 10! That's awesome man! Sounds like you were able to get all of your comic homework down!
I haven’t heard of most of theses thank you for giving me new comics to read!!!
You got it Xavier! glad I could offer some good picks
really love this new series you are doing on the channel. Definitely do the top 10 Batman stories as I would like to hear what your picks would be. My first Batman stories I ever read as well as collect was The Shadow of the Bat and of course Legends of the Dark Knight.
Dropping within the hour!
My top read comic has gotta be Spiderman and Batman.
Its such a great story and my 2 favourite characters in one. Plus the dynamic that the Joker and Carnage have is so damn good.
Havnt read any of those books listed but i have read some earlier spectre books and hearing about that issue makes me wanna read the rest of them!
Spectre is an odd character, most people overlook but they shouldn't! Great stories and great art
Batman Gotham Adventures 33. Bruce wonders what a world without Batman would be like. In comes the Phantom stranger to show him bits and pieces of his tragic live that changed. It had some What If scenarios like Robin joining the Joker gang. Selena Kyle and Bruce getting married. A real heart melting eye opener. Grab yourself a copy on eBay fast.
How very "It's a wonderful life" that sounds! Cool premise
Also I would argue people def know about birds of prey 8 and that it is viewed as a key. Routinely sells well at cons and online from what I’ve seen but is one you can stumble upon
i think out of all of these Birds of Prey 8 and Flash 182 are the ones that people may know and have a reputation - but man I just love em so much!
Mazing Man #1, Firestorm #24 Blue Devil 16page preview, Thriller #1, Ambush Bug Stocking Stuffer,
Wonderful wonderful stuff from The New DC era .Best wishes
I was really into Guy Gardener in the early 90's (Still am) I read Guy Gardener Reborn 3 issues to death. No one ever talks about these today
They may start talking about G.G again since the HBO show is kinda putting him on blast a bit! we'll see! I read the guy gardner series a LTO when I was a kid
Excellent video!! It's so refreshing to find nice under the radar recommendations. Please keep doing these videos! Thanks!!
Please do more. I'm not reading many new comics so anything from the past is great. I have oly read the Captain Cold story from your list and I agree it is a great story.
I'm trying to release the Batman video by noon tomorrow, these videos always take forever to edit because of the amount of pictures
Great list! I haven't read any of those, but I grabbed a few off comixology to check out. Now I just need time to read them! lol
Love digital comics! enjoy em!
Just discovered your channel. I haven't seen another video you've done but I adored this! I'm a DC guy and I don't care for spec, so this was just pure delight!
With the books you never heard of I was wondering if books like Jonni thunder or Jemm might of been on here. I'm definitely interested in more of this!
Glad you enjoyed it! it seems that a lot of people are sick of spec and since no one can afford giant books anymore it's honestly pretty fun to just chat about the books the one loved (even if for no reason other than pure enjoyment!) nice username haha
Thanks!
Yeah, when I returned to comics a couple years ago I was very surprised by slabbing books and that being the "priority" in collecting. Flipping a book is something I still can't wrap my wrinkly old brain around.
I came into comics in the 90's. Death of Superman & image are my foundations. None of which are worth much despite the thoughts at the time. I think that carried with me through the years and I'm less worried about money and more about collecting and, more importantly, reading for fun.
That's one of the best things about this hobby though I suppose. There's so many different ways to go about it. There's something for everyone. Even non-comic fans!
I'm looking forward to going through more of your videos. I took a quick peak yesterday and it looks like you have lots of fun content.
Have a great day, man!
Can't believe how fast ur channel is growing. You definitely deserve it tho 👍
I know!! MY CHANNEL ISN'T EVEN A YEAR OLD!
The comics I read to death was the first 5 issues of Scott Snyder's All Star Batman
Yo SO UNDERRATED!
@@MintHunterComics I know right!
One random book that I has a special place in my heart is Spider-Man #7, the Todd McFarlane series, simply because it was the first comic book I've ever owned, and I still have it to this day
Love stories like that - Spider-man 7 it is!
Batman & robin the boy wonder #9 when Batman painted the whole room, himself and robin yellow just to piss of green lantern 😂 and sipped lemonade while he had a melt down 😂
One of my fav issues dude SO underrated haha
That was a really good list. I will have to check out those comics. Thanks for the information.
Really enjoyed this video! Great job. I can honestly say I have 6 of the issues - never collected much Flash and the Grayson issue came out when I had cooled down on purchasing new issues. I will go and check them out now. Have debated with myself for some time whether to slab my BOP #8. Many choices for future segments. I'll throw out Legion of Super-Heroes.
Oh def slab that BOP 8!!! I'll buy it from ya if it get's 9.8! hahaha
Oh My God. You will not believe this, but Green Lantern Annual #4 was the first Green Lantern comic I ever read, AND it is what made me a fan of Kyle and the franchise, The same is true for Flash #0, and....well... Flash.
The Spectre comic that would make my best you never heard of list is #20, when the JSA tell tales of how they knew Jim back in the day, and realizing that even the original club of heroes, the kindly guys who paved the way, sort of viewed Jim as an outsider.
YES Lou! so underrated (and unknown) that's awesome to hear. I used to read it a LOT - my copy looks like trash hahaha. honestly anything Spectre is awesome lol
I've read the Captain Cold Flash issue and the Flash #0. I am now going to find Justice league Annual and the Spectre Those 2 sound awesome. One the story's I love is a more recent story, not by DC, Called Huck. Just an all around good story. Its out in trade now. Great show as always. 😁
Oh man I've never even heard of "Huck!:" I'll have to check it out - and YES that spectre run is GOLD
There are definitely some neat sounding stories on this list, going to have to track some down. As far as a comic that I read a lot and love. GI JOE #61,it's not some huge key,it's not obscure, but it's my very first comic ever. So it holds a very special place in my comic history.
Very cool man, isn't it crazy that IVE NEVER READ A SINGLE GI JOE ISSUE BEFORE?
@@MintHunterComics it's not crazy,so many books only so much time. It was just my first comic book love that's all.
That was amazing information thank you for sharing.
You are so welcome!
the justice league comic based on the animated series is excellent especially issue 6
The ones I've read are Spectre #5, Robin #46 (actually read most of Robin at that point), and Birds of Prey #8.....two of my favorite reads of all-time happen to be DC comics (which is weird, because I'm normally a Marvel guy, but I like a good story sometimes).....are Death: the High Cost of Living (best comic I've read in my opinion) and Lobo's Back (just the most insane and hilarious comic I've read)....they're mini series, but they're great and definitely my top two favorite reads.
This is actually the second post i've read where people are recommending Lobo! Idk what it is but I avoided him for so many years and I'm really finding out how much of a mistake that was! thanks for the recommendation
YOU WON THE 5,000 SUBSCRIBER GIVEAWAY DUDE! Message me to confirm the "Legends of The dark Knight" Entire run! congrats!
All 10 are great reads- the entire Spectee run was fantastic!!! Batman black n white in its entirety was good imo
I actually read or have some of these issues. But they were not particularly memorable... As a comic book collector, I pay attention to the art first and story second. Top DC comics have to be Kingdom Come and Planetary and Saga (with the Image Imprint) -all with great art and stories. Honorable mention to Crisis on Infinite Earths and New Teen Titans Judas Contract storyline.
But on individual floppy issues and being a New Teen Titans fan, Who is Donna Troy issue. As a kid, I hated that issue since there was no supervillian or hero action. But reading it as an grown up, it was a lovely issue to friendship between Robin and Wonder Girl.
There was also an issue of Legion Of Superheroes that was very good -regarding Timber Wolf and Karate Kid.
But thanks for the memories for bringing up some of these issues.
Not for everyone! and yes some books grow on you for sure (some books I remember were awesome aren't that awesome now) haha
Great vid dude, certainly haven't heard of some of these. Great research ahah
Glad you enjoyed! these are solid as hell
A video on "key" comics would be cool!!!
I've done plenty of those haha - key comic videos are honestly less fun to make than these deep dive vids! but as they come up I'll do the occasional key based vids
These are such great books! JLA 65 is one of my favs also! Yeah... more of these please
Haha - I'm thinking of basically doing this video but a top 10 batman version
I really love the poison tomorrow with green arrow and batman omg so good lol. Also ASM happy birthday part 1-3 it's the most emotional story I've read of spiderman and my favorite Jess cruz is a day in the life green lanterns I think 15 I have so much love for Jessica Cruz
Ooh yeah good choice - I actually do know that and have read that! Ironically I don't think Iv'e read that Jessica Cruz Issue maybe I need to make that a priority
@@MintHunterComics lol I love that comicstorian actually did a video on it I can link it below but yeah I love that story
czcams.com/video/9m5Oo5px6hY/video.html
The only comic I have read from this list is Justice League Annual #1. So I would say that title is pretty accurate. :)
Get to those other 9! you'll love em
Great video. I’m up for any list that ranks good stories from the late 80’s through now. I was out of comics by ‘83 and have just got back into them in the last 18 months. I got a lot of catching up to do. Lol
You've got your work set out for you my man! hahaha
Surprised No Man's Land didn't make your list..I always wanted them to adapt it to a movie 🎥
That's an event - this video is for single comics that no one's heard of
Yes. Please do more. I have read about 4 of the 10
I got a Batman version dropping in an hour!
This is great. Real comic book reader sharing amazing stories to the community. Made me subscribe to your channel. More of this please. One story I absolutely love is Batman #23 (2017), where Swamp Thing was able to completely fool batman. Great art & dialogues in this book.
Welcome aboard! I'm so glad you approve Rene! GREAT choice - I also love Batman 51-53 "Cold Days" from that run
I’ve read and own most of these minus the robin, Grayson ones. Titles I always recommend are Spectre, Starman (Jack Knight). Planetary, and Transmetropolitan. Single issues include…Secret Origins Annual Vol 3. Issue 2. Flash Vol.2 issues 30, 54, 79, and 91. Sgt Rock 348.
Love this video and your love for the DCU.
Dropping the Batman version of this within the hour too!
- The War of Joker and Riddles
- Swamp Thing Winter special 1
-Dc comics Presents 8 (1985)
All are some fantastic reads
Great choices man
DCCP #8 is definitely awesome! Great contrast between Swamp Thing and Grundy!
I'd like see superman there's gotta be alot of those that are overlooked.
Adding it to the video ideas!
Don't have any of these but definitely gonna pick up the Grayson issue
Please do!
More of this please! 👍🏻
One is dropping later today! maybe even within the hour if it'll finish uploading! haha
One of my favorite comics is Marvel Ruins from 1995 its actually what got me into comics
Oh wow! that's a deep cut for sure