Marvel Special Edition 15: A Comprehensive Look into the 1971 and 1974 Editions

Marvel Special Edition 15 is a highly sought-after collectible among Marvel Comics fans. Published in two separate editions in 1971 and 1974, this special edition features some of Marvel's most iconic characters and stories. In this article, we will delve into the world of Marvel Special Edition 15, exploring its captivating content, stunning artwork, and behind-the-scenes secrets.

Special Marvel Edition (1971-1974) #15

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Language	:	English
File size	:	71413 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	20 pages

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The 1971 Edition

The original Marvel Special Edition 15 was published in 1971 and featured a star-studded lineup of Marvel heroes on its cover: the Fantastic Four, the Hulk, Daredevil, the Sub-Mariner, the Silver Surfer, and Thor. This special edition was a massive success, selling out quickly and becoming a must-have for collectors.

Stories

• The Fantastic Four: "The Thing That Couldn't Die!"
• The Hulk: "Green Vengeance!"
• Daredevil: "Target: The Kingpin!"
• The Sub-Mariner: "Triumphant Return!"
• The Silver Surfer: "The Coming of Galactus!"
• Thor: "The Mighty Thor!"

Art

The artwork in the 1971 Marvel Special Edition 15 is simply breathtaking. The legendary Jack Kirby, known for his iconic work on the Fantastic Four and the Hulk, delivers stunning pencils and inks that bring the characters to life. Neal Adams, another comics legend, contributes his signature style to the Daredevil and Silver Surfer stories.

The 1974 Edition

Due to the overwhelming success of the 1971 edition, Marvel published a second edition of Marvel Special Edition 15 in 1974. While this edition features a different cover and a slightly different lineup of stories, it is still a highly valued collectible.

Stories

• The Avengers: "The Avengers Assemble!"
• The Hulk: "The Incredible Hulk!"
• Spider-Man: "Spider-Man: The Menance of Mysterio!"
• The Sub-Mariner: "The Coming of the Sub-Mariner!"
• Captain America: "Captain America: The Sentinel of Liberty!"
• Thor: "The Mighty Thor!"

Art

The 1974 Marvel Special Edition 15 features an equally impressive lineup of artists. John Buscema, renowned for his work on the Avengers, delivers dynamic pencils and inks that capture the power and majesty of Earth's Mightiest Heroes. John Romita Sr., another comics legend, contributes his distinctive style to the Spider-Man and Captain America stories.

Behind-the-Scenes Secrets

The creation of Marvel Special Edition 15 was not without its challenges. Here are a few behind-the-scenes secrets that make these special editions even more fascinating:

• The original cover: The iconic cover of the 1971 Marvel Special Edition 15 was actually a last-minute replacement. The original cover, featuring the Fantastic Four and the Hulk, was deemed too similar to the cover of another Marvel comic, The Avengers #89.
• The Silver Surfer story: The Silver Surfer story in the 1971 edition was originally intended to be a full-length graphic novel. However, due to time constraints, it was condensed into a shorter format.
• The 1974 edition: The 1974 edition of Marvel Special Edition 15 was originally planned to feature a different lineup of stories. However, due to scheduling conflicts, the Avengers story was added to the lineup at the last minute.

Legacy and Impact

Marvel Special Edition 15 has had a lasting impact on the Marvel Comics universe. The stories and artwork in these special editions have inspired generations of fans and creators alike. Many of the characters featured in these editions have gone on to become iconic symbols of Marvel Comics, and their stories continue to be told and retold in various forms.

Marvel Special Edition 15 is a true gem in the world of Marvel Comics. With its captivating stories, stunning artwork, and behind-the-scenes secrets, this special edition is a must-have for any Marvel fan. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a new reader, Marvel Special Edition 15 is sure to captivate your imagination and transport you into a world of superheroes, adventure, and wonder.