The First Appearance of Thor
Thor’s Debut in Marvel Comics: Journey into Mystery #83!
The first appearance of Thor in Marvel Comics occurs in Journey into Mystery issue 83 in 1962. His alter ego was Dr Donald Blake who was transformed into the Norse God Thor. The comic was written by Stan Lee and the art was drawn by Jack Kirby. Thor in different forms had appeared in other comics including
- Venus #1
- Adventure Comics #75
- Boy Commandos #7
- Tales of the Unexpected #16.
The definitive Thor first appearance in comics is Journey into Mystery #83.
Why did Marvel Choose Thor and Norse Mythology?
Stan Lee brought Thor into the marvel universe as a way to have a hero stronger than the Hulk and the Fantastic Four. As heroes became stronger in the marvel universe Stan needed someone who could challenge them all.
Stan knew that people were familiar with Greek and Roman mythology and comic books had been referred to as modern day mythology; he thought he could combine them.
Americans were already aware of Vikings and Stan thought he could use that to introduce a new character to a book that needed a boost.
What Powers Did Thor Have in His First Appearance?
Thor has been given more abilities over the years but in his first appearance he had super strength and his legendary hammer Mjolnir.
Mjolnir is indestructible and gives Thor the power of thunder and lightning. The hammer will also return to him when thrown or called back.
The Origins of the God of Thunder in Marvel Comics
After Thor’s first appearance in Journey into Mystery #83, he made subsequent appearances along with many more characters from Norse mythology.
Two issues later in Journey into Mystery #85, it included the first appearances of his brother Loki, his half-brother Balder, Heimdall, Tyr the Norse and a cameo of Odin Thor’s father.
In 1963 Thor went on to become a founding member of the Avengers, one of the most famous comic teams in history. Avengers #1 includes Ant-Man, Hulk, Thor, Wasp and Iron Man.
Journey into Mystery continued with stories of Thor until issue #125. Issue #126 was and subsequent issues of Journey into Mystery were given a new title. Thor. Thor #126 was the first solo title of Thor and featured a classic battle of Thor vs Hercules, another god from a different mythology.
- Related: The Avengers Key Issues
Collecting Journey into Mystery #83
Value and Availability
The value of Journey into Mystery #83 and Thor’s first appearance has in the last few decades been one of the more costly comic books.
Not as high in cost as Spider-man or Batman. It continues to be a sought after book for many collectors.
The latest sale recorded of a CGC graded 9.4 of Thor’s first appearance sold for four hundred and twelve thousand dollars in April of 2022.
This is a significant jump over the previous recorded sale on COVR price of a sale two years previous of one hundred and forty one thousand dollars.
CGC graded census shows a total of 838 total copies across all grades. So far there are only 16 9.8 copies in the record. This suggests that it would be very hard to find in that condition graded or ungraded.
The most common grades that come up for sale every couple of months are 5.0 or lower, even a .5 with no cover still sells for an average twenty five hundred dollars USD.
If you are looking for a copy it may be easier to find an ungraded copy. Ungraded copies with no cover still sell regularly for over one thousand to fifteen hundred dollars USD.
The most affordable way these days to own a copy of Journey into Mystery #83 would be a reprint. There was a reprint that is a much more affordable release in 1966 referred to as the Golden Record reprint.
This can be purchased in very good condition in raw and graded form for under one thousand and twelve hundred respectively.
You can find a pure silver foil edition and a 2022 Marvel facsimile at reasonable prices, and you might even discover them at their original cover price in local comic shop bins.
Recommended Reads After Thor’s First Appearance
Journey Into Mystery was Thor’s first appearance and the beginning of Thor’s journey in the Marvel universe. He has many other comic book series worthy of reading.
Thor: God of Thunder by Jason Aaron is a must read for Thor fans. It introduces one of my favorite villains in Gorr The God Butcher. It also shows a much older Thor looking for Gorr through the years as Gorr kills gods.
Thor by Donny Cates is another must read. Thor becomes the Herald of Galactus while also battling his alter ego, an evil Donald Blake.
The Mighty Thor by Walter Simonson is by far the most definitive version of the character. The definitive version of Thor with tales from Asgard of heroism, treachery and love to the gritty streets of New York.
Frequently Asked Questions about the First Appearance of Thor
What Year Did Thor First Appear in Marvel Comics?
1962
Who Created Thor for Marvel?
Thor was created by Stan Lee and drawn by Jack Kirby.
How Did Thor Get His Hammer, Mjolnir?
Some differences over the years of how and why the hammer was created. It is generally accepted that Odin placed an enchantment that requires the holder of the hammer to be worthy. Thor proved his worth and has for most of Marvel history been the sole owner of Mjolnir with some exceptions.
Conclusion: Thor’s Journey from First Appearance to Marvel Icon
From Thor’s first appearance to today, Thor has been a fan favorite in the Marvel Universe. From Thor’s early days of brashness and carefree attitude to his older portrayals as the All Father who displays wisdom and patience. He continues to fascinate comic book fans both on the page and on screen in the MCU.
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