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John Buscema cover; 1st solo ongoing Silver Surfer series; Origin of Silver Surfer, the Watchers; 1st appearance of Shalla-Bal (takes on MCU Surfer role in 2025's Fantastic Four: First Steps); COMIC BOOK IMPACT rating of 7 (CBI)


Jack Kirby brought the Silver Surfer into the Marvel Universe by sneaking him into the classic "Galactus Trilogy" covering 1966's Fantastic Four #48-50. Stan Lee loved the idea of the planet-devouring Galactus having an acolyte, and the Silver Surfer was soon a favorite of Marvel's mostly high-school to college-age readership in the heady late '60s.

The character's cosmic look, tortured back-story, and cool surfboard made him an instant favorite with the black-light poster crowd. Never one to shy away from a hit, Lee soon moved the former Norrin Radd into his own supersized title, with art from the frighteningly talented John Buscema. Hugely popular to this day (and likely to factor in Marvel Studios' upcoming Fantastic Four movie reboots), the Surfer continues to fascinate comic collectors while commanding high prices in high grades.