Weapon X and Mongul

Two Copper Age/Modern Age comic books that deserve special attention come from Marvel and DC Comics.

X-Men and Wolverine fans are aware of the origin of Wolverine.  It has been chronicled both in comic books and in the movies.

But, there was a period when his origin was clouded in mystery.  There were several-rumored origins-all with a hint of truth associated with each.

In 1991 writer and artist Barry Windsor Smith set in motion the mini-series within a regular monthly comic book that shook the comic book community to its core.

As I mentioned earlier Wolverine’s origin up until that point had remained a mystery.

What Barry Windsor Smith did was create an origin of the ol’ Canucklehead that still resonates today.

In fact, if you take a look at the various Wolverine and X-Men movies Smith’s influence is very much evident as it pertains to Logan’s transformation into Wolverine.

Wolverine always possessed a mutant healing factor and he had claws-bone claws.

Wolverine’s Adamantium skeleton and claws were the result of a secret Canadian government program regarding mutants.

The code name for Wolverine’s transformation was
Weapon X.

Initially it deprived him of his memory and free will.  What the scientists who experimented on him didn’t count on was Logan’s healing power and strength of will.

Eventually he broke free and over the intervening years regained his memory.

Marvel Comics Presents #72 is a key issue as it pertains to Wolverine.  It is the first issue in a groundbreaking mini-series that helped define who Wolverine is.

Just as important as Marvel Comics Presents was to Wolverine, DC Comics’ DC Comics Presents #27 introduced to the DC Universe one of Superman’s most powerful and dangerous enemies: Mongul.

The world conquering Mongul takes on Superman and J’onn J’onzz: Manhunter From Mars in a no-holds battle.

Mongul’s Warworld is also introduced. 

Mongul has been a constant thorn in the side of Superman, the Justice League and other DC heroes over the decades and almost equals the power of Darkseid.

His first appearance is just beginning to attract the attention of comic book collectors.  Expect it to increase in value.