Pep Comics – Archie Publications – 1940–1987 – Volume 1 – Ongoing Series – #1–411

Quick Summary: Originally published by MLJ Magazines, Pep Comics is one of the most significant titles in comic history for two distinct reasons. It introduced the world’s first patriotic superhero, The Shield (#1), pre-dating Captain America by over a year. However, its lasting legacy was cemented with issue #22, which featured the debut of Archie Andrews, Betty Cooper, and Jughead Jones. As Archie’s popularity exploded, the title transitioned from a superhero anthology into the flagship humor book for the rebranded Archie Comics. The series ran for 47 years, concluding without fanfare in March 1987.