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Paragon Illustrated #1 (1969), the debut issue from Paragon Publications, edited and illustrated by Bill Black. This scarce fanzine blends comics, sci‑fi, and horror culture, featuring “The Great Captain Marvel Controversy,” an article revisiting the famous lawsuit where DC Comics claimed Captain Marvel was too similar to Superman, ultimately forcing Fawcett Publications to cease publishing Captain Marvel, Mary Marvel, and Captain Marvel Jr. in the early 1950s. The issue also includes striking psychedelic cover art and vintage film content. Bill Black would later go on to found AC Comics, making this an important piece of his early career and fandom history. Copies of this issue are rarely offered, with no recent sales recorded, underscoring its scarcity and future collector potential.
Condition: Cover shows moderate color rub along the left edge with small white patches, plus minor rub at the bottom edge. No major creases or tears noted. Staples intact, interior pages complete. Presents well for a 1969 fanzine. Estimated grade: Fine (approx. 6.0) in comic grading terms.
Why Collectors Care:• First issue status (#1, 1969)• Scarce early Paragon Publications release• Captain Marvel / Fawcett heroes feature tied to comics history• Bill Black provenance (pre‑AC Comics)• Psychedelic late‑1960s design and pop‑culture crossover
A true investment piece for collectors of vintage fanzines, Golden Age hero history, and Bill Black’s early work.
