Iron Man made his debut in Marvel Comics during a time of socio-political upheaval, and his first appearance in Tales of Suspense #39 (1963) forever changed the landscape of superhero storytelling. In this iconic issue, Tony Stark, a brilliant yet morally flawed inventor, crafted his first Iron Man suit—a bulky, gray Mark I—under life-threatening circumstances. This groundbreaking origin story not only introduced readers to Stark’s journey of redemption but also showcased Marvel’s ability to blend social commentary with captivating action. Iron Man’s emergence paved the way for one of Marvel’s most enduring and impactful heroes, whose legacy continues to resonate with fans worldwide.

When did Iron Man First Appear in Marvel Comics?

Overview of Tales of Suspense #39 (1963)

Tony Stark’s first Iron man suit is very different in this first appearance from the one we all know today.

Tales of Suspense issue 39 tells the story of Tony Stark having created new micro transistors capable of great power.  While Tony is on his way to show off the new weapons to the US Army. His convoy was ambushed by the Red tyrant Wong-Chu.

Taken hostage and forced to create weapons for Wong-Chu, Tony Stark, injured by shrapnel from a bomb, needs to use his new powerful transistor to create a magnet to keep the shrapnel from piercing his heart. 

Wong-Chu gives Stark an assistant, Professor Yinsen, a Physicist, to create a fantastic weapon. Instead they go about creating the first Iron Man suit. The Mark I.

Donning the suit Iron Man challenges Wong-Chu to a battle and wins. He sets an ammo depot on fire. Wong-Chu is able to escape and Tony Stark disappears into the jungle. 

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Iron Man’s Origin Story in his debut issue

The origin of Tony starts with making weapons of destruction for money.  He is a defense contractor who has no regard for what human suffering his inventions could cause. 

Captured by Wong-Chu, Tony realizes that his technology can fall into the wrong hands and be used for evil and not just good.

The overall theme could be said that technology can be used for good or evil and that it is the responsibility of those who make it be wary of its possible uses. 

Stark’s assistant dies by sacrificing himself so Tony could escape, Tony vows avenge his new friend.  While Tony is one of the smartest people on the planet, he is ordinary in strength and speed.  He is able to use his technology to redeem his previous faults.

The Creation of Iron Man: Behind the Scenes

Stan Lee created the concept of Iron Man. He wanted a character who was supposed to be unpalatable but eventually likeable to his anti war readers.  This was during the Vietnam war. 

Larry Lieber developed Stark’s origin story and wrote his first story.  Lee took his inspiration for the character from Howard Hughes, the famous inventor, aviator and businessman. 

Jack Kriby originally drew the Iron Man suit more like a knight of the round table. Don Heck modified his design to include gadgets like jets in his feet and drills.

The Impact of Iron Man’s introduction on the Marvel Universe

Iron Man was one of the founding members of The Avengers.  Throughout the years Tony Stark has been a key member in presenting serious political and life lessons.  After the Vietnam war ended he was used in allegories of the Cold War. 

His demon in a bottle storyline of dealing with trauma and alcoholism is still one of the most poignant and relevant stories decades later. 

From Armor Wars to Extremis and Civil War, Iron Man has been the centre of some Marvel’s greatest stories.  While also being adapted into some of the MCU’s best films. 

Iron Man #1 (1968) – When Iron Man got his own Title!

By 1965 Lee had written Iron Man out of the Avengers along with the rest of the original team. The first appearance of Iron Man in his own title came in 1968 with Captain America then appeared regularly in Tales of Suspense until 1968.

Archie Goodwin was given the task of writing Iron Man’s first solo series.  He slowly reintroduced political themes over the run which focused on domestic issues like racism, environmentalism and civil rights. 

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Collecting Tales of Suspense #39

Current Market Value and Rarity

An original copy is very expensive.  Poor grades can be sold for thousands. 

A graded CGC 9.8 sold for close to 1,000,000 dollars in 2024.  

No grades or very poor grades are for sale quite regularly. Mid grade and higher are far and few between.

Books graded by a grading company are up for sale quite a lot in any grade of 8.5 and below. 

Tips for Authenticating an Original Copy

It will be printed on old news print. It will not have a bar code. The paper will most likely be a bit yellow or off white. It will not have a foil cover.  There is also a UK Price version that is authentic with the same features of news print. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How old was Tony Stark in his First Appearance?

No idea though for most stories he’s in his 30’s

How has Iron Man’s Suit evolved since his first appearance?

Originally grey in appearance with jets and drills, he changed to gold soon after his first appearance.  His gadgets have also evolved.  He can fly, has repulsor blasts and mini rockets. Today it’s made out of nano technology that can fit inside a watch. 

How did Iron Man’s character reflect the Socio-political Climate of the 1960s?

From Vietnam to the Cold War to the Military industrial complex to commentary on racism, civil rights and PTSD and addiction.  Tony has a long history of telling poignant stories that connect with the audience. 

The Enduring Legacy of Iron Man first appearance!

While some of Iron Man’s stories in the comics have endured he was not a top character in Marvel until Robert Downey Jr appeared in Marvel’s first MCU movie Iron Man.  This movie shot RDJ and Iron Man to superstar status. 

Involved in every Avengers movie, 3 Iron Man movies and a Captain America movie.  Iron Man will always be a key member of the MCU and the Marvel universe.