Aurora's Incredible Hulk Model Kit Original Box Art by Neal Adams, His First-Ever Published Marvel Work(421-98) (Aurora, 1966...

Description

Aurora's Incredible Hulk Model Kit Original Box Art by Neal Adams, His First-Ever Published Marvel Work(421-98) (Aurora, 1966). Few moments in comic book history can be pinpointed with such precision - the instant an artistic titan first touched the Marvel Universe. This is that moment. Offered here is the original artwork for the 1966 Aurora model kit box (421-98) featuring The Incredible Hulk, fully hand-rendered by Neal Adams in what is widely recognized as his first-ever published Marvel art.

Commissioned for the box lid of Aurora's 1966 model kit release, this vivid and explosive image captured the essence of Hulk's primal fury in a pre-Bronze Age world that had not yet seen Adams redefine superhero visual storytelling. Standing at 8.75" x 23" on a larger 12.5" x 24.5" artboard, the composition shows Hulk bursting with rage - fists clenched, sinews bulging, surrounded by shattered steel. The color treatment, from the acidic yellow backdrop to the violent magenta vapor and green skin tones, is pure 1960s pop energy. This is commercial art that outpaces its purpose and becomes something more: a lightning bolt of character-driven iconography years before Adams' seismic runs on X-Men, Avengers, and Green Lantern/Green Arrow.

As both a first and a masterwork, this piece holds immense historical and cultural significance. For Adams, it marked his initial entry into the Marvel pantheon. For Hulk, it was one of his first true moments as a pop culture icon beyond comics - immortalized in plastic and shrink-wrap for kids who wanted to build, paint, and smash. It's impossible to overstate how rare it is for Aurora original art of this caliber - especially from a legend like Adams - to come to market. This is not just a production artifact; it's a turning point, when mass-market toy culture and comic book artistry collided to create something enduring and electric.

Condition-wise, the piece is remarkably well-preserved. Printer's marks, alignment targets, and tape along the edges speak to its original production use, but the core image remains exceptionally clean and vibrant, unmarred by time. The bottom margin shows mild aging, and there is minor wear at corners and edges (including pinholes and tape shadows), but these only underscore the authenticity of a piece that once sat on a Marvel model kit production desk nearly 60 years ago.

This is the centerpiece not only of any Aurora collection but of any serious Marvel, Adams, or original art archive. It is a singular convergence of historical provenance, pop culture evolution, and artistic legacy. An image that once sat on toy store shelves now roars with new life - and demands a place in the finest collections of comic book and character history.

There will never be another first for Neal Adams at Marvel. This is it.

Heritage Auctions provides as much information as possible but strongly encourages in-person inspection. Condition statements are offered as general guidance only, not as complete representations of fact, and do not constitute a warranty or assumption of liability by Heritage. Some condition issues may not be noted but may be visible in the photos, which are considered part of the condition report. Lots estimated at $1,000 or less are not de-framed for inspection, and we may be unable to provide additional details for lots valued under $500. Heritage does not guarantee the condition of frames and is not liable for damage to frames, glass/acrylic coverings, original boxes, display accessories, or artwork that has shifted in the frame. All lots are sold "AS IS" under our Terms & Conditions of Auction.