Black Panther #1 - Marvel 1977 - CGC 9.0 - Jack Kirby / Mike Royer

CGC Cert #4364662001

The character of Black Panther was first introduced in Marvel Comics in 1966, making him one of the earliest black superheroes in mainstream American comics. He was created by writer Stan Lee and artist Jack Kirby, who were inspired by the civil rights movement and wanted to bring more diversity to their comic book universe.

Black Panther's origins can be traced back to the fictional African nation of Wakanda, a technologically advanced country rich in vibranium, a rare and powerful metal. The mantle of Black Panther has been passed down through generations of Wakandan kings, with each inheriting superhuman strength, speed, agility, and senses from the mystical Heart-Shaped Herb.

However, it wasn't until Jack Kirby's run on the character in 1977 that Black Panther truly came into his own. In this series, T'Challa (the current Black Panther) travels to New York City to investigate why Wakandan weapons have fallen into the wrong hands. Along the way, he teams up with other Marvel heroes like Daredevil and Captain America while battling against his arch-nemesis Ulysses Klaw.

Kirby's run on Black Panther delved deeper into T'Challa's background and explored his struggles as a ruler torn between tradition and modernization. It also addressed real-world issues such as colonialism and racism through the lens of Wakanda's isolationist policies.

By incorporating these themes into Black Panther’s story, Kirby elevated the character beyond just a typical superhero and made him a symbol for black empowerment and equality. His art also prominently featured African-inspired designs and architecture that further added to the authenticity of Wakanda.

In conclusion, Jack Kirby's 1977 run on Black Panther not only solidified the character’s place in Marvel Comics but also cemented him as an iconic symbol for representation and social commentary in comics. With recent adaptations like the critically acclaimed movie released in 2018, it is clear that Black Panther will continue to be a significant and influential figure in the world of superheroes and beyond.

King Solomon's Frog!, script and pencils by Jack Kirby, inks by Mike Royer; Black Panther helps Abner Little, a member of the Collectors, recover the Brass Frog, an ancient time machine; Due to its dangerous nature, the Frog had previously been hidden away by the Black Panther's grandfather, Azzuri, but was taken by Alfred Queely, a fellow member of the Collectors; After getting the Frog, the Black Panther and Little are attacked by Princess Zanda, another member of the Collectors, for control of the artifact. During the battle, the Frog is activated and a mysterious creature, Hatch-22, appears. Jack Kirby writes about what readers can expect from his new Black Panther.

Product Dimensions: 13" x 9" x 1"