*Marvel: A landmark from the Good Doctor Collection. Strange Tales #110, already the showcase title for the Fantastic Four’s junior member, the Human Torch, presented a mystery back-up strip starring a supernatural champion named Doctor Strange. Stan Lee and Steve Ditko, already the creators of hugely popular twist-ending tales in a plethora of Big Panty Monster comics, turned their talents to an eldritch hero, and Doctor Strange was born! Essentially a retread of Marvel’s previous Dr. Droom character, where this Doctor had the advantage was in Steve Ditko’s powerful and gripping artwork, quite unlike anything else in the field, which catapulted the good Doctor from an interesting novelty into the Marvel Universe’s Master of the Mystic Arts. Unheralded on the cover – honestly, is anyone really bothered if Paste-Pot Pete’s Invincible Paste-Gun does finish the Torch off? – the stylish back-up story introduced the Sorceror Supreme to the Marvel Universe, commencing a lengthy career which has crossed over very successfully into the MCU. Here he faces the recurring threat of Nightmare for obviously the first time. Although possessing decent off-white to cream page quality, this is a low grade cents copy, with the front and back covers, mostly held together by tape on the inside, separated from the contents. The inside tape also extends slightly to seal some small tears near the spine. There’s heavy wear with colour breaking creases round all the edges, although the central image remains unmarked. The copy is a bit limp and tired, although the staples, which hold the contents well (if not the covers) are strong. First appearances of Marvel’s main characters are now usually out of reach for many collectors, but here’s a copy at a relatively budget price. High resolution images are available on request. 
PICTURED: STRANGE TALES #110 PR/FA £600 SOLD