
In 1954, the last issue of Captain America hit the racks with very little fanfare!
It wasn't until November of 1963 that Captain America sort of made his return in 'Strange Tales' # 114. The story featured the Human Torch running into and then battling a guy in a Captain America costume. This comic also featured a comic book triple crown featuring Stan Lee (writer), Jack Kirby (penciler) and Dick Ayers (inker) The appearance was a test by marvel to see if comic fans wanted to see the return of Captain America!
They did!
March 1964, 'Avengers' # 4 proclaimed CAPTAIN AMERICA LIVES AGAIN! As the team was searching the Sub Mariner, they stumbled upon the frozen body of Steve Rogers who was floating in suspended animation. In this issue we see for the first time, the faithful last mission of Cap and Bucky, the awakening of Cap and the first meeting of Cap and Rick Jones.
Despite this incredible and most important book in all of comics, there is a huge error. After the battle with Namor, Cap and Namor have never met. But in the golden age, they did serve together in the All Winners Squad and would be later on shown as teammates in the Invaders. Despite this... this is Captain America's greatest moment. How could it not be?
This book is also one of my most prized books. In 1980 i paid $25.00 for it at a flea market in Enfield, CT. The book is missing a little chuck of the cover that to the delight of my pal John Cimino, makes it more valuable than a slabbed, mint copy!
God Bless Captain America, Joe Simon and Jack Kirby!