Very 1st Ghost Rider and Origin - Long Lost Gem from 1949

[PGCMint]

When we think of the Ghost Rider more recent collectors immediatley point to Marvel Spotlight #5 and his following appearances in that title, the 1970's Ghost Rider series, and a host of other appearances in the Bronze age of comics. A few collectors remember the earlier series that Marvel produced in 1967 but it is the Rider called Johnny Blaze that nearly all collectors relate to.

 

Some of the older (or should I say "more mature") collectors like myself remember the stunning covers illustrated by Frank Frazetta which brought this title to our attention. They were simply awesome! Yet nothing really tied the past to the present, merging these two distant characters into one panoramic story, until the recent Ghost Rider movie starring Nicholas Cage and Sam Elliott.

 

It was in this block buster movie that the story was told to an entire new audience building the present Ghost Rider on the foundation of the original Ghost Rider and brilliantly merging the two heroes into a single and well constructed story.

 

I have asked several customers (who collect this title) when the very first appearance of the Ghost Rider appeared and not a single one of them knew. Some guesses ranged from the 1960's Marvel series, to Ghost Rider #1 published by Magazine Enterprises in 1950. Not a single collector was aware that his first appearance was in Tim Holt #11 from 1949.

This issue contains the first ever appearance of the Ghost Rider. It also has his first cover appearance and his origin in a six page interior story. Much like Detective Comics #27 (which featured the 1st Batman cover and story) this book is The issue that started it all.

 

Below is a look at the cover and two interior page snipes for your enjoyment.

[comic_lot]

Great story Mark. I always thought the 50s series #1 was the first appearance. Thanks for sharing.

[Tatterdamillion]

Cool book and by far the awesomest Ghost Rider incarnation. The only other all white characters that hold a candle to him are Moon Knight and the White Power Ranger. HeeHee

[bronze_rules]

I didn't realize that was the 1st appearance either. Thanks for informing.

What's funny is how the original representation outlined his face... sans mask.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

 

[CAP Freak]

Some more awesome Ayers art if I recall. I've talked to him several times. I'm a big fan.

[PGCMint]

Thanks for the nice comments.

What is Ayers earliest comic art? Just curious.

By the way here is another spread from the story to look at....

[CAP Freak]

He wrote FunnyMan for this publisher in 1948.

Also worked for Charlton in the 50's

[Comicdey]

Nice to see your slabbed copy and some interiors....I guess I'm in the minority, as I did know it was the GR's first appearance. I have quite a few of the Tim Holt issues and the GR ME series....and they are a treasure that many are unaware of.

 

Thanks for sharing.