Conan The Barbarian

Conan The Barbarian has a much longer history than when Marvel Comics decided to do an adaptation in 1970.

The character was created by Robert E. Howard in 1929, and his stories started seeing publication in 1931 in the popular "Pulp" magazines of the day.

Howard created an entire universe around Conan, and his stories, in written form, would continue to be published for most of the 20th Century (later inspiring other authors to take up the character).

Roy Thomas and Barry Windsor-Smith spearheaded the Marvel title, which was such a consistent seller, that it would run for more than 20 years, and inspired two screen adaptations which did pretty good box-office trade (and starred Arnold, no last name necessary).

The comic adaptation, at least initially, adhered closely to Howard's original vision, retaining his original "Hyborian Age" and supporting characters.

Conan was Roy Thomas' baby, as far as writing went, but Smith would depart as full-time artist after 17 issues, returning occasionally to contribute and assist the likes of Gil Kane, Dan Adkins, and others. John Buscema, often considered the "definitive" Conan artist would assume that role with issue #25, and draw a good portion of the issues well into the 80's.

Thomas eventually surrendered his writing duties, with J.M. DeMatteis, Bruce Jones and Michael Fleischer, taking pen in hand, would continue the legacy...

Later on Marvel bullpen reliables Gerry Conway, Alfredo Alcala, Ernie Chan and newcomers Jim Lee and Michael Docherty (among others) would see the book out to it's successful run until it's final issue, in 1993.

Collectors are particularly investing in the early 70's books, whose value continues to rise, and the "holy grail" of the series is issue #23, with the introduction of major heavy-hitting character RED SONJA, who, of course would spawn a wild cult following of her own in the continuing years!

Check out what your issues may be worth by using our online price guide, which will give you a good idea of key issues, and what prices collectors are demanding!

Check out what your Conan The Barbarian issues may be worth by using our online price guide. Our guide is designed to give you a good idea of the price you’ll receive for key issues — as well as what prices collectors are demanding! We have been buying and selling for 20 years and have tons of experience working with sellers just like you! Get in touch for a FREE appraisal.