Star Wars #1
Marvel (1977)First Star Wars Comic
Star Wars #1 (1977) is one of the most historically important comics of the Bronze Age, and one of the highest-impact movie tie-ins ever printed.
1. First Appearance of the Entire Star Wars Universe in Comics
This is the comic that introduced:
- Luke Skywalker
- Princess Leia
- Darth Vader
- Han Solo
- Chewbacca
- Obi-Wan Kenobi
- C-3PO and R2-D2
- The Empire, the Rebellion, Tatooine, etc
It’s the first ever Star Wars comic, and that alone makes it a massive key issue.
2. Released BEFORE the Movie Came Out
This is one of the coolest historical quirks:
Although it has a cover date stating July, Star Wars #1 hit comic shops on April 12th, 1977—over a month before the film was released on May 25, 1977.
Marvel had to bet on a weird, unknown sci-fi movie from George Lucas. They took a risk, and the comic actually helped promote the movie. This makes it one of the rare “pre-release movie adaptations,” and collectors LOVE that bit of history.
3. It Saved Marvel Comics Financially
Marvel was struggling in the mid-70s. The Star Wars comic became one of Marvel’s biggest sellers of the decade. Its success helped stabilize the company at a time when they badly needed a hit.
4. Classic Howard Chaykin Cover
Chaykin & Tom Palmer delivered an iconic 1970s-style action cover with bright colors and a bold “Luke front and center” composition. It looks pure Golden Age pulp but landed right as sci-fi was about to explode. It’s one of the most recognizable covers in the entire Bronze Age.
5. Pop-Culture Impact
More than almost any other licensed comic, this book crossed over into mainstream pop culture. People who’ve never collected comics in their lives recognize it.
9.4 NM
Pages: White
CGC 4049753006
Art: Roy Thomas story
Howard Chaykin art
Howard Chaykin & Tom Palmer cover
Key: Part 1 of "Star Wars: A New Hope"
movie adaptation.