The Spirit, created by Will Eisner, remains one of the most iconic and memorable characters from the Golden Age of comics. Although the self-titled series published by Quality Comics had a relatively short run, the last three issues are considered examples of Golden Age Good Girl art. Featured here are copies of issue #20* from April 1950, issue #21 from June 1950, and the iconic issue #22* from August 1950.
The business concept behind The Spirit was truly inspired. Packaged as a small comic book insert, it was distributed through newspapers, specifically in The Register and Tribune Syndicate properties. This innovative approach boosted the circulation of these newspapers, as readers eagerly enjoyed the special original characters and stories included in their Sunday supplements. The Spirit’s adventures were available to readers between June 2, 1940, and Oct. 5, 1952.
The Spirit’s alter ego was Denny Colt, a criminologist and assistant to Central City’s police commissioner, Dolan. Colt, presumed dead after a confrontation with Dr. Cobra, returned as The Spirit, donning his famous domino mask. The Spirit’s close relationship with Dolan’s daughter, Ellen, added an intriguing romantic element to the stories.
Starting as early as 1942, the stories featuring The Spirit were reprinted monthly by Quality Comics in their Police Comics series, which also featured the popular character Plastic Man. Over the years, The Spirit stories have been republished numerous times, as the character has garnered a devoted cult following.
The copies provided below are covers only.
* Sold Copy
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