Marvel Super Hero Portfolios: The Incredible Hulk Set One (1981)

This is a vintage 1981 'The Incredible Hulk' art portfolio published by Squad Graphics (SQP) as part of their Marvel Super Hero Portfolios series, designated as 'Set One.' The item consists of an illustrated cardstock outer envelope containing four high-quality, full-color 11x14 inch prints featuring dynamic artwork by Fastner and Larson. The cover design is predominantly orange with green and yellow bold typography, displaying thumbnails of the included prints: 'Night of the Abomination,' 'Rematch with the Thing,' 'Underwater Armageddon,' and 'At All Costs--Destroy the Hulk.' A notable feature is that the item appears to be in its original publisher's shrink-wrap, which is a significant factor for collectors. The condition of the outer envelope looks excellent with sharp corners and vibrant colors, though the plastic wrap shows some minor rippling and shelf wear consistent with its 40+ year age. The portfolio originally retailed for $6.95, as indicated by the printed price on the top left. This series was a limited production run, highly prized by Bronze Age Marvel fans for the oversized format and detailed painterly art style that differed from standard comic book aesthetics of the era.

I have examined the digital representation of the 1981 Squad Graphics (SQP) 'The Incredible Hulk' Set One portfolio. Based on a visual inspection of the outer envelope and packaging, the item appears to be an authentic first printing. The presence of the original publisher’s shrink-wrap is the primary value driver here; it suggests the internal 11x14 prints by Fastner and Larson have been protected from UV exposure, dust, and handling for over four decades. I observe sharp corners and no significant 'corner dings' or foxing, though the minor rippling of the plastic is typical for aged PVC. In the current secondary market, vintage Marvel portfolios are seeing increased demand from Bronze Age completionists. While the $6.95 original retail price reflects its mass-market origins, factory-sealed examples are becoming increasingly scarce. Recent auction comparables for opened sets in Near Mint condition range from $60 to $90, but a sealed example commands a significant premium of 200-300% due to the 'unopened' status. The value is tempered slightly by the fact that the Hulk is the most common of the SQP sets compared to the X-Men or Spider-Man releases. Please note that this appraisal is based on photographic evidence. A physical inspection is required to confirm the integrity of the heat seal and ensure no moisture trapped within the wrap has caused 'foxing' or sticking between the prints. Verification of provenance or a 'new old stock' (NOS) history would further solidify this valuation. Without opening the seal, the condition of the internal prints remains a professional assumption based on the external state of the envelope.