The Silver Surfer comic books definitive issue-by-issue collecting guide and trade reading order for omnibus, hardcover, and trade paperback collections. Find every issue and appearance! A part of Crushing Comics. Last updated August 2024 with titles scheduled for release through June 2025.
Silver Surfer has had several ongoing titles over the years collected in a variety of formats. However, there are a few specific formats of books that cover large portions of this title, and I’ll cover those first – Essentials, Epics, Masterworks, and Omnibuses.
- Silver Surfer Bookshelf – Standard collection formats
- Omnibus Editions – Premium color reprints in oversize hardcovers
- Marvel Masterworks – Premium color reprints in standard-size hardcovers with carefully-restored linework
- Epic Collections – Comprehensive color paperback collections of an entire title or character
- Essentials – Black-and-white reprints on newsprint paper
- Licensed Reprints – Standardized reprint formats by companies other than Marvel
- Reading Order
- Before Earth
- Birth of the Silver Surfer
- Silver Surfer, Vol. 1 (1968 – 1970)
- Defender & Guest Star (1971 – 1981)
- (1982) #1, Defender, & Guest Star (1982 – 1986)
- Silver Surfer: Parable (1988) #1-2 by Stan Lee & Moebius
- (1987) #1-146, -1, 1/2, Annual 1-7, Annual 1997, & Silver Surfer/Thor Annual 1988 (1987 – 1998)
- Silver Surfer: The Enslavers (1990) OGN
- Silver Surfer: Dangerous Artifacts one-shot
- Galactus: The Devourer & Maximum Security (1999 – 2000)
- Silver Surfer: Loftier Than Mortals (1999) #1-2
- Defenders & The Order (2001 – 2002)
- Silver Surfer, Vol. 4 & Defenders, Vol. 3 (2003 – 2005)
- Requiem (2007) & In Thy Name (2008)
- Silver Surfer, Annihilator (2006 – 2011)
- The Defenders (2011 – 2012)
- Marvel Now (2012 – 2015)
- All-New All-Different Marvel (2015 – present)
- Fresh Start (2018 – 2019)
- Silver Surfer: Black (2019) #1-5 by Donny Cates & Tradd Moore
- Silver Surfer Rebirth (2022) #1-5 & Silver Surfer Rebirth: Legacy (2023) #1-5
- Silver Surfer: Ghost Light (2023) #1-5
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Silver Surfer Bookshelf
Silver Surfer Omnibus
These massive tomes have larger pages and collect huge swaths of comics – between 25 and 50 issues a book. They look beautiful on a book-shelf! Other omnibuses not primarily centered on this material are also listed in this guide chronologically.
Omnibus editions are also listed below in their chronological placement, as they are frequently the only coverage of a specific run.
[Silver Age] by Stan Lee Omnibus
(2007 oversize hardcover, ISBN 978-0785127529 / 2022 oversize hardcover, ISBN 978-1302922696 / 2025 hardcover, ISBN TBA / digital TBA)
Collects Silver Surfer (1968) #1-18
Return to the Spaceways Omnibus (2025 oversize hardcover, ISBN 978-1302964429 / digital TBA)
Collects Silver Surfer (1982) #1, Super-Villain Classics (1983) #1, Silver Surfer (1987) #1-33 & Annual 1-2, Marvel Graphic Novel: Silver Surfer (1988) OGN AKA Judgment Day, Silver Surfer (1988) #1-2 [AKA Parable], Silver Surfer: The Enslavers (1990) OGN, Fantastic Four (1961) #325, and material from Epic Illustrated (1980) #1, Marvel Fanfare (1982) #51, and Marvel Comics Presents (1988) #1.
Infinity Gauntlet Omnibus
The catch-all omnibus for this massive Marvel event includes a chunk of non-sequential Surfer issues. It collects Silver Surfer (1987) #34-38, 40, 44-60; Thanos Quest #1-2; Infinity Gauntlet #1-6; Doctor Strange: Sorcerer Supreme (1988) #31-36; Cloak & Dagger (1988) #18; Spider-Man (1990) #17; Incredible Hulk #383-385; Quasar #26-27; and Sleepwalker #7
Silver Surfer by Slott & Allred Omnibus
(2018 oversize hardcover, ISBN 978-1302913595 / 2023 oversize hardcover, ISBN 978-1302945619 / digital)
Collects the Slott & Allreds’ run in full from All-New Marvel Now! Point One (2014) #1 (Silver Surfer Story), Silver Surfer (2014) #1-15, and Silver Surfer (2016) #1-14
Silver Surfer Masterworks
Marvel Masterworks editions are high quality, full color reproductions of original issues. The volumes were originally released as hardcovers, with many now out of print. Some of the earlier editions were also released in paperback. If you decide to buy hardcovers, the newest editions are from 2003 and, with silver dustjackets.
Masterworks are not listed below in their chronological placement, but they are referenced if they are the only means of obtaining an issue.
Marvel Masterworks, Vol. 1 – Hardcover (ISBN 978-0785111870) / Paperback (ISBN 978-0785142829)
Silver Surfer (1968) #1-6
Marvel Masterworks, Vol. 2 – Hardcover (ISBN 978-0785111771)/ Paperback (ISBN 978-0785145691)
Silver Surfer (1968) #7-18
Jump to this spot in the chronology.
Silver Surfer Epic Collections
Marvel’s Epic Collections represent a consistent, affordable, full-color bookshelf format of issues in perfect continuity order without a single gap. The catch? Marvel is releasing them in a random order to focus on the biggest gaps first – since early issues are already well-covered by both Essentials and Masterworks.
Epic editions are also listed below in their chronological placement, as they are frequently the only coverage of a specific run.
Volume 1: When Calls Galactus (2014 paperback, ISBN 978-0785190028 / digital / 2019 paperback, ISBN 978-1302924270)
Collects every one of Surfer’s earliest appearances in chronological order: Fantastic Four (1961) #48-50, 55, 56 (excerpts), #57-60, 61 (excerpts), Tales to Astonish (1959) #92-93, Fantastic Four Annual 5 (3rd story; excerpts), & Fantastic Four #72, 74-77
Volume 2: Not yet announced. Will contain Silver Surfer (1968) #1-18, and possibly Tomb of Dracula (1972) #50.
Volume 3: Freedom (2015 paperback, ISBN 978-0785199038 / 2024 paperback, ISBN 978-1302957926 / digital)
Collects Silver Surfer (1982) #1, Silver Surfer (1987) #1-14, Super-Villain Classics #1; material from Epic Illustrated #1 and Marvel Fanfare (1982) #51
Volume 4: Parable (2022 paperback, ISBN 978-1302932329 / digital)
Collects Silver Surfer (1987) #15-23 & Annual 1-2, Fantastic Four (1961) #325, Marvel Graphic Novel: Silver Surfer (1988) OGN AKA Judgment Day, Silver Surfer (1988) #1-2 AKA Parable (which is not strictly in continuity), and material from Marvel Comics Presents (1988) #1.
Volume 5: The Return of Thanos (2023 paperback, ISBN 978-1302948290 / digital)
Collects Silver Surfer (1987) #24-38 and Silver Surfer: The Enslavers (1990) OGN
Volume 6: Thanos Quest (2018 paperback, ISBN 978-1302911867 / digital)
Collects Silver Surfer (1987) #39-50, Annual 3; Thanos Quest (1990) #1-2; and material from Marvel Comics Presents (1988) #50
Volume 7: The Infinity Gauntlet (2017 paperback, ISBN 978-1302907112 / digital)
Collects Silver Surfer (1987) #51-66, Annual 4, and material from Marvel Comics Presents (1988) #69 & 93-97
Volume 8: The Herald Ordeal (2024 paperback, ISBN 978-1302959654 / digital TBA)
Collects Silver Surfer (1987) #67-75, Annual 5, Silver Surfer: Homecoming (1991) OGN; and “Return of the Defenders” crossover material from Incredible Hulk (1968) Annual 18, Namor The Sub-Mariner (1990) Annual 2, Doctor Strange, Sorcerer Supreme (1988) Annual 2
Volume 9: Resurrection (2020 paperback, ISBN 978-1302925079 / digital)
Collects Silver Surfer (1987) #76-85 & Annual 6, Silver Surfer/Warlock: Resurrection (1993) #1-4, Secret Defenders (1993) #9-10.
Volumes 10-12: Not yet announced. Will collect #86-122, Annual 7, Blood & Thunder crossover issues, Silver Surfer: Dangerous Artifacts one-shot, and likely material from Starmasters (1995) #1-3 and Cosmic Powers Unlimited (1995)
Volume 13: Inner Demons (2019 paperback, ISBN 978-1302918132 / digital)
Collects Silver Surfer (1987) #123-138, -1, and Annual ’97.
Volumes 14: Sun Rise and Shadow Fall (2023 paperback, ISBN 978-1302953355 / digital)
Collects Silver Surfer (1987) #1/2 & 139-146; Silver Surfer/Thor Annual 1998; Galactus the Devourer (1999) #1-6; and Silver Surfer: Loftier Than Mortals (1999) #1-2
Essential Silver Surfer
Marvel’s Essentials line packs tons of comics into each black and white, phone-book-sized edition with newsprint paper. If you don’t care about color and glossy paper, this is the best way to acquire your favorite classic stories quickly.
Essential Editions are not repeated below in their chronological placement, since B&W is not the original format of this series.
Essential Vol. 1 2004 Printing / 2005 Printing
Collects Silver Surfer (1968) #1-18 and Fantastic Four Annual #5
Essential Vol. 2
Collects Silver Surfer (1982) #1, Silver Surfer (1987) #1-18 & Annual #1 and Marvel Fanfare #51.
The Essentials line has been discontinued and will not extend past #18. Jump to that spot in the chronology.
Licensed Reprints
Starting after 2020, Marvel began to license reprints of their classic Silver Age comics to other publishing companies to product new and different formats aimed specifically at bookstore shoppers rather than the comic book direct market.
Taschen: Silver Surfer: 1968-1970 (2023 oversize hardcover, ISBN 978-3836596510)
Collects (1968) #1-18. Taschen is a globally-recognized publisher in high-end art reproduction. This is a massive, larger-than-omnibus collection with pages shot with a camera from original printings.
Silver Surfer Reading Order
Silver Surfer: Before Earth
These flashbacks help to fill in stories of Silver Surfer from before he came to Earth in his last duty as a herald of Galactus.
- Silver Surfer / Warlock: Ressurection #1
- Silver Surfer (1987) #50, 57
- The Order #6
- Silver Surfer (1982) #1
- Silver Surfer (1968 #1
- Silver Surfer: In Thy Name #1 & 3
- Hulk (2008) 10-12 (need to confirm)
- Shadows & Light (1998) 3 (4th story)
- Silver Surfer (1987) #129-130
- Silver Surfer (1987) #104
- Amazing Spider-Man #431
- Silver Surfer (1987) #1
- Untold Legend of Captain Marvel (1997)
- Epic Illustrated #1 – “The Answer, A Tale of the Silver Surfer”
Birth of the Silver Surfer
Silver Surfer debuted in Fantastic Four #48 as a herald of the oncoming Galactus.
Silver Surfer Epic Collection: When Calls Galactus (Epic Vol. 1)
Collects every one of Surfer’s earliest appearances in chronological order: Fantastic Four (1961) #48-50, 55, 56 (excerpts), 57-60, 61 (excerpts), Tales to Astonish (1959) #92-93, Fantastic Four Annual 5 (3rd story; excerpts), & Fantastic Four #72, 74-77
For other collection options, see Guide to Fantastic Four and Guide to Hulk – Bruce Banner (for Tales to Astonish).
Silver Surfer, Vol. 1 (1968 – 1970)
#1-18: Silver Surfer [by Stan Lee] Omnibus
(2007 oversize hardcover, ISBN 978-0785127529 / 2022 oversize hardcover, ISBN 978-1302922696 / 2025 hardcover, ISBN TBA / digital TBA)
Also collected in Masterworks and Essentials, above.
After the continuity of his title ends, the Surfer next appears in two retrospective/flashback series: Webspinners: Tales of Spider-Man (1999) #4-6 and Fantastic Four: World’s Greatest Comics Magazine (2001) #6-7 & 11-12.
Silver Surfer, Defender & Guest Star (1971 – 1981)
The section continues to treat Fantastic Four appearances as “major” appearances that are not relegated to italics as guest appearances.
Sub-Mariner #34-35 & Marvel Feature #1: These are lead-in stories to the Defenders. See The Defenders for collection information – or, Sub-Mariner, for collections exclusive to Namor.
After Marvel Feature #1: Thor #192-193 (more prominent in #193), Sensational She-Hulk (1989) #30 (flashback)
Fantastic Four #121-123: See Fantastic Four
Defenders #2-3, 6, & 8: See The Defenders
Avengers/Defenders War: See The Defenders or The Avengers. Silver Surfer appears in Defenders #9-11 and Avengers #116 & 118. This was one of Marvel’s earliest direct crossovers, in whole encompassing Avengers #115, Defenders #8, Avengers #116, Defenders #9, Avengers #117, Defenders #10, Avengers #118, Defenders #11
Giant-Size Defenders (1974) #1: See The Defenders; this reprints the following four issues with new framing material; may not be placed here in chronology for Surfer: Fantastic Four (1961) Annual 5, The Incredible Hulk (1962) #3, Strange Tales (1951) #145, Sub-Mariner Comics (1941) #41
Silver Surfer departs The Defenders and shifts to guest-star status.
After Defenders: Thor (1966) #226 (only in a brief flashback to past events)
Fantastic Four (1961) #155-157: See Fantastic Four
After FF #157: Code Of Honor (1997) #2 (a flashback series), Giant-Size Super-Villain Team-Up (1975) #1 (includes some new material linking Marvel Super-Heroes (1967) #20 and The Sub-Mariner (1968) #20), Thor (1966) #233 (see note, directly below), Marvel Treasury Edition (1974) #13 (new framing story around The Avengers (1963) #58, Daredevil (1964) #86, Marvel Team-Up (1972) #6, Tales to Astonish (1959) #93), The Avengers (1963) #135 (in a reminder flashback, only), Captain Marvel (1968) #39 (unconfirmed), Super-Villain Team-Up (1975) #1 (unconfirmed), Fantastic Four (1961) #173 (unconfirmed).
Official guides indicate Surfer moves from FF #157 directly to Thor #233, indicating that the Super-Villain framing material likely does not appear here in his chronology. They also indicate he goes from Thor directly to Tomb of Dracula #50, below.
Tomb Of Dracula (1972) #50: This key appearance is collected in a few places – primarily, Tomb of Dracula Omnibus Vol. 2 and in black and white in Essential The Tomb of Dracula Vol. 03
After Tomb of Dracula: The Avengers (1963) #157 (in a reminder flashback, only), The Champions (1975) #12 (unconfirmed), Ms. Marvel #4 (unconfirmed)
The Silver Surfer (1978): The Ultimate Cosmic Experience OGN (ISBN 978-0671242251)
This is a standalone Silver Surfer tale by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby that makes some modifications to his story and thus is not in continuity. It has not been re-collected.
Avengers (1963) #168: See The Avengers
After #168: Code of Honor #2 (flashback series), Alias (2001) #25-26 (flashbacks), The Rampaging Hulk (1977) #8 (unconfirmed) , Thor #276 (reference flashbacks, only), Fantastic Four #202 (unconfirmed), Doctor Strange #34 (unconfirmed), Fantastic Four #211 (unconfirmed), Thor #293 (essentially a clips-show of past adventures), Uncanny X-Men #135 (a brief cameo as Dark Phoenix streaks across the universe)
Epic Illustrated #1: Freedom (Epic Collection Vol. 3)
(2015 paperback, ISBN 978-0785199038 / 2024 paperback, ISBN 978-1302957926 / digital)
Includes the story “The Answer, A Tale of the Silver Surfer,” which is a flashback to an unspecified time when Surfer was still in Galactus’s employ. Collects Silver Surfer (1982) 1, Silver Surfer (1987) 1-14, Super-Villain Classics 1; material From Epic Illustrated 1, Marvel Fanfare (1982) #51
After cameo in UXM #135: Incredible Hulk Vol. 2 (1968) #250, Thor #305-306 (in flashback to FF #121)
Defenders (1972) #92, 98-101: See The Defenders
After #101: Dazzler #10
Avengers (1963) #215-216: See The Avengers. Silver Surfer is the featured guest-star in this story.
Defenders (1972) #107: See The Defenders
Avengers (1963) Annual 11: See The Avengers. An Avengers vs. Defenders story; Silver Surfer is featured prominent.
Silver Surfer (1982) #1, Defender, & Guest Star (1982 – 1986)
in omnibus…
Return to the Spaceways Omnibus (2025 oversize hardcover, ISBN 978-1302964429 / digital TBA)
Collects Silver Surfer (1982) #1, Super-Villain Classics (1983) #1, Silver Surfer (1987) #1-33 & Annual 1-2, Marvel Graphic Novel: Silver Surfer (1988) OGN AKA Judgment Day, Silver Surfer (1988) #1-2 [AKA Parable], Silver Surfer: The Enslavers (1990) OGN, Fantastic Four (1961) #325, and material from Epic Illustrated (1980) #1, Marvel Fanfare (1982) #51, and Marvel Comics Presents (1988) #1.
in other collections and including guest appearances from this period…
(1982) #1: Freedom (Epic Collection Vol. 3)
(2015 paperback, ISBN 978-0785199038 / 2024 paperback, ISBN 978-1302957926 / digital)
A 48-page one-shot written and illustrated by John Byrne. Also included in Essential Silver Surfer (above).
Defenders #112-115: See The Defenders
After #115: Incredible Hulk Vol. 2 (1968) #279
Defenders (1972) #122-124 & New Defenders #125: See The Defenders
Fantastic Four (1961) #259-261: See Fantastic Four. This occurs during New Defenders #125.
Also during Defenders #125: A flashback in Tales Of The Marvels: Blockbuster (1995)
After FF #261: Marvel 1985 #6
Secret Wars II: See Marvel Universe Events. Surfer appears in #3-4 (may be cameos only) and #9, then in an epilogue in Avengers (1963) #266 (also, see The Avengers).
After Avengers #266: in flashback in Marvels: Eye Of The Camera (2009) #4
Silver Surfer: Parable (1988) #1-2 by Stan Lee & Moebius
This landmark story by Stan Lee and famed illustrator Moebius is not in continuity, but was released near the start of the new Surfer Series.
It has been collected in an original 1988 hardcover (ISBN 978-0871354914) and paperback (ISBN 978-0785106562), in Marvel Premiere Classic (2012 hardcover, ISBN 978-0785162094 / digital – also includes “Enslavers”), and in oversized 30th Anniversary hardcover (2019, IBSN 9781302918743), in a 2020 paperback (ISBN 978-13029237), in Epic Collection Volume 4 (below) and in Return to the Spaceways Omnibus (2025 oversize hardcover, ISBN 978-1302964429 / digital TBA).
Silver Surfer (1987) #1-146, -1, 1/2, Annual 1-7, Annual 1997, & Silver Surfer/Thor Annual 1988,
Silver Surfer: The Enslavers (1990) OGN, & Silver Surfer: Dangerous Artifacts one-shot (1987 – 1998)
in omnibus…
Return to the Spaceways Omnibus (2025 oversize hardcover, ISBN 978-1302964429 / digital TBA)
Collects Silver Surfer (1982) #1, Super-Villain Classics (1983) #1, Silver Surfer (1987) #1-33 & Annual 1-2, Marvel Graphic Novel: Silver Surfer (1988) OGN AKA Judgment Day, Silver Surfer (1988) #1-2 [AKA Parable], Silver Surfer: The Enslavers (1990) OGN, Fantastic Four (1961) #325, and material from Epic Illustrated (1980) #1, Marvel Fanfare (1982) #51, and Marvel Comics Presents (1988) #1.
in Epic Collections and other collected editions…
#1-14: Freedom (Epic Collection Vol. 3)
(2015 paperback, ISBN 978-0785199038 / 2024 paperback, ISBN 978-1302957926 / digital)
Collects Silver Surfer (1982) #1, Silver Surfer (1987) #1-14, Super-Villain Classics #1; material from Epic Illustrated #1 and Marvel Fanfare (1982) #51
After #2 (and flashbacks in #4): West Coast Avengers (1984) Annual 2 & Avengers (1963) Annual 16
#1/2: Though published later (and collected in Sunrise and Shadow, below), this fits after issue #14 and Annual 1.
#15-23 & Annual 1-2: Parable (Epic Collection Vol. 4) (2022 paperback, ISBN 978-1302932329 / digital)
Collects Silver Surfer (1987) #15-23 & Annual 1-2, Fantastic Four (1961) #325, Marvel Graphic Novel: Silver Surfer (1988) OGN AKA Judgment Day, Silver Surfer (1988) #1-2 AKA Parable (which is not strictly in continuity), and material from Marvel Comics Presents (1988) #1.
After Annual 1: Marvel Comics Presents (1988) #1
During #16: Fantastic Four #319
During #19: flashbacks in Silver Surfer: In Thy Name (2008) #3
After #22: Fantastic Four (1961) #324-325
#24-38: The Return of Thanos (Epic Collection Vol. 5) (2023 paperback, ISBN 978-1302948290 / digital)
Collects Silver Surfer (1987) #24-38 and Silver Surfer: The Enslavers (1990) OGN
#25 Secret Invasion: Rise of the Skrulls (2018 paperback, ISBN 978-1302912468)
Marvel Graphic Novel #38 – Silver Surfer: Judgment Day (1988)
Hardcover (ISBN 978-0871354273) / Paperback (ISBN 978-0871356635)
Also in Epic Vol. 4, above
After Annual 2 & MGN: Marvel Comics Presents (1988) #50 (4th story)
#28-33: Not collected
#34-38: Rebirth of Thanos
Collects Silver Surfer (1987) #34-38, Thanos Quest #1-2 and material from Logan’s Run #6.
#34-38, 40, 44-60: Infinity Gauntlet Omnibus oversize hardcover
The catch-all omnibus for this massive Marvel event is primarily a Silver Surfer collection! Includes Silver Surfer (1987) #34-38; 40, 44-60; Thanos Quest #1-2; Infinity Gauntlet #1-6;Doctor Strange: Sorcerer Supreme #31-36; Cloak & Dagger (1988) #18; Spider-Man (1990) #17; Incredible Hulk #383-385; Quasar #26-27; and Sleepwalker #7. Also, see Marvel Universe Events for the contents of the Infinity Gauntlet Box Set Slipcase, which duplicates these issues.
After #38: Daredevil (1964) #281-282
#39-50: Thanos Quest (Epic Vol. 6) (2018 paperback, ISBN 978-1302911867 / digital)
Collects Silver Surfer (1987) #39-50 & Annual 3; Thanos Quest (1990) #1-2; material from Marvel Comics Presents (1988) #50. #51 is told in flashback to occur after #43, followed by Annual 3.
After Annual 3: Damage Control Vol. 3 (1991) #3-4
#51-66: The Infinity Gauntlet (Epic Vol. 7) (2017 paperback, ISBN 978-1302907112 / digital)
Collects Silver Surfer (1987) #51-66, Annual 4, and material from Marvel Comics Presents (1988) #69 & 93-97
Infinity Gauntlet: See Marvel Universe Events. Silver Surfer is a primary character in this event! He appears in every issue. Issues #52-59 run parallel to Infinity Gauntlet, with #60 occurring after it ends, and #60-66 acting as an epilogue (all of which are in the Infinity Gauntlet Box Set Slipcase)
During IG #1: Incredible Hulk Vol. 2 (1968) #383
After IG #1: Doctor Strange, Sorcerer Supreme (1988) #31, Quasar (1989) #26
After IG #2: Doctor Strange, Sorcerer Supreme (1988) #32
During IG #3: Silver Surfer Vol. 3 (1987) #52-54
During IG #4: Silver Surfer Vol. 3 (1987) #55-56
After IG #4: Silver Surfer Vol. 3 #57-58
During IG #5: Silver Surfer Vol. 3 (1987) #59
After IG #6: Silver SurferVol. 3 (1987) #60
During #60: Marvel Comics Presents (1988) #69 (4th story) & 97 (2nd story), New Warriors (1990) #17, Thor (1966) #443, Slapstick (1992) #1
#60-66: Infinity Gauntlet Aftermath
Collects Silver Surfer (1987) #60-66, Dr. Strange: Sorcerer Supreme (1988) #36, Warlock & the Infinity Watch #1-6, and material from Silver Surfer Annual 5. Also, see Marvel Universe Events for the contents of the Infinity Gauntlet Box Set Slipcase, which duplicates these issues.
After #66: Marvel Collector’s Edition (1992) #1 (2nd story)
#67-69: See Marvel Universe Events for collections of these issues along with Infinity Wars.
#67-75: The Herald Ordeal (Epic Collection Vol. 8) (2024 paperback, ISBN 978-1302959654 / digital TBA)
Collects Silver Surfer (1987) #67-75, Annual 5, Silver Surfer: Homecoming (1991) OGN; and “Return of the Defenders” crossover material from Incredible Hulk (1968) Annual 18, Namor The Sub-Mariner (1990) Annual 2, Doctor Strange, Sorcerer Supreme (1988) Annual 2
Infinity War: See Marvel Universe Events. Surfer is a primary character in this event during his issues #67-69! He appears in issues #2-6.
Prior to IW #2: Silver Surfer Vol. 3 (1987) #67 + Doctor Strange, Sorcerer Supreme (1988) #42, Doctor Strange, Sorcerer Supreme (1988) #43
After IW #2: Silver Surfer Vol. 3 (1987) #68-69, Doctor Strange, Sorceror Supreme (1988) #44
During IW #3: Doctor Strange, Sorceror Supreme (1988) #45
During IW #4: Doctor Strange, Sorceror Supreme (1988) #46 + Wonder Man Vol. 2 (1991) #14 + Fantastic Four (1961) #369 + Quasar (1989) #39 (cameo) + Silver Sable and The Wild Pack #5
During IW #5: Fantastic Four (1961) #369
During IW #6: Wonder Man Vol. 2 (1991) #15 + Fantastic Four (1961) #370
Annual 5 – Return of the Defenders: Surfer is here immediately after his issue #69 and Infinity War. See Guide to The Defenders. Silver Surfer appears throughout this all-annuals crossover through Incredible Hulk (1968) Annual 18 (2nd story), Namor, The Sub-Mariner (1990) Annual 2, Silver Surfer (1990) Annual 5. Doctor Strange, Sorceror Supreme (1988) Annual 2
After Defenders: Doctor Strange, Sorceror Supreme (1988) #50, Warheads (1992) #7-8
After #75: flashback in Heralds (2010) #4
Marvel Graphic Novel #71 – Silver Surfer: Homecoming OGN (1991) (ISBN 978-0871358554)
This Jim Starlin story follows issue #75 continues to Silver Surfer/Warlock: Resurrection
#76-85 & Annual 6: Resurrection (Epic Collection Vol. 9) (2020 paperback, ISBN 978-1302925079 / digital)
Collects Silver Surfer (1987) #76-85 & Annual 6, Silver Surfer/Warlock: Resurrection (1993) #1-4, Secret Defenders (1993) #9-10.
After #82: Tales Of The Marvels: Blockbuster (1995), Quasar (1989) #50
Silver Surfer/Warlock: Resurrection (1993) #1-4: Infinity War Aftermath
Collects Warlock & The Infinity Watch #11-17, Silver Surfer/Warlock: Resurrection #1-4, Quasar #41-43; and material From Marvel Comics Presents (1988) #112, Marvel Holiday Special #2, and Marvel Swimsuit Special #2. Also in Epic Vol 9, above. And, see Marvel Universe Events for the contents of the Infinity Gauntlet Box Set Slipcase, which duplicates these issues.
After Resurrection: Secret Defenders (1993) #9-10, Plasmer (1993) #3-4
Annual 6 fits between #82-83
#83-85: See Marvel Universe Events for the contents of the Infinity Gauntlet Box Set Slipcase, which collects these issues.
Infinity Crusade: See Marvel Universe Events. Silver Surfer is a primary character in this event! He appears in issues #1-4 & 6.
After IC #1: Thor (1966) #464, Marc Spector: Moon Knight (1989) #57 (implied)
During IC #2: Web Of Spider-Man (1985) #104 + Doctor Strange, Sorcerer Supreme (1988) #55
After IC #2: Warlock & The Infinity Watch (1992) #19
After IC #3: Silver Surfer Vol. 3 (1987) #83
During IC #4: Silver Surfer Vol. 3 (1987) #84
After IC #4: Web Of Spider-Man (1985) #106 + Silver Surfer Vol. 3 (1987) #85
#86-88: Thor: Blood and Thunder (2011)
A crossover running through Thor (1966) #468-471, Silver Surfer Vol. 3 (1987) #86-88, Warlock Chronicles (1993) #6-8, and Warlock & The Infinity Watch (1992) #23-25. Silver Surfer appears in every issue.
The reading order of Blood and Thunder is Thor #468, SS #86, WC #6, WatIW #23, Thor #469, SS #87, WC #7, WatIW #24, Thor #470, SS #88, WC #8, WatIW #25, and Thor #471
#89-92 & Annual 7: Not collected
After #92: Secret Defenders (1993) #14, Incredible Hulk Vol. 2 (1968) #414-416
After Annual 7: Incredible Hulk Vol. 2 (1968) #417-418, Marvel Comics Presents (1988) #172-175, Clandestine (1994) #1-3
#93-103: Not collected
After #102: Marvel Holiday Special (1991) #1994/4
After #103: Fantastic Four (1961) #400 (2nd story), Cosmic Powers Unlimited (1995) #1
Though not officially in continuity, a pair of cross-company crossovers. First, Green Lantern/Silver Surfer (1995) and DC Vs. Marvel (1996) #1-4. Then, Rune/Silver Surfer (1995) #1
Silver Surfer: Dangerous Artifacts one-shot
#104-114: Not collected
After #109: Cosmic Powers Unlimited (1995) #3 and 2 (2nd stories)
Starmasters (1995) #1-3: Not collected. A limited team-up between Silver Surfer, Beta Ray Bill, and Quasar!
Then: Cosmic Powers Unlimited (1995) #4-5, Spider-Man Team-Up (1995) #2, Fantastic Four (1961) #413
#115-122 Not collected
#123-138, -1, Annual 1997: Inner Demons (Epic Collection Vol. 13) (2019 paperback, ISBN 978-1302918132 / digital)
Collects Silver Surfer (1987) #123-138, -1, and Annual ’97. Annual 1997 occurs after the first four pages of #134.
After #122: Silver Surfer/Superman (1996), X-Force (1991) #96, X-Men Unlimited (1993) #13
After #125: Marvel Holiday Special (1991) #1996, Silver Surfer/Witchblade (1997), Weapon Zero/Silver Surfer (1997) & Silver Surfer/Weapon Zero (1997) (part of Dark Reign inter-company crossover with Top Cow and Image)
During #134 & After Annual 1997: Journey Into Mystery (1952) #513, Amazing Spider-Man (1963) #430-431, Incredible Hulk Vol. 2 (1968) #463-464
Silver Surfer/Thor Annual 1998: In Sunrise and Shadow, below.
#139-146: Sun Rise and Shadow Fall (Epic Collection Vol. 14) (2023 paperback, ISBN 978-1302953355 / digital)
Collects Silver Surfer (1987) #1/2 & 139-146; Silver Surfer/Thor Annual 1998; Galactus the Devourer (1999) #1-6; and Silver Surfer: Loftier Than Mortals (1999) #1-2
After #137: Fantastic Four Vol. 3 (1998) #3-4
After #145: Strange Tales Vol. 4 (1998) #1, Incredible Hulk Vol. 2 (1968) #467 (flashback), then #145 2nd story
Galactus: The Devourer & Maximum Security (1999 – 2000)
After nearly a year’s disappearance, Silver Surfer returns in Galactus: The Devourer.
#1-6: Sun Rise and Shadow Fall (Epic Collection Vol. 14) (2023 paperback, ISBN 978-1302953355 / digital)
Collects Silver Surfer (1987) #1/2 & 139-146; Silver Surfer/Thor Annual 1998; Galactus the Devourer (1999) #1-6; and Silver Surfer: Loftier Than Mortals (1999) #1-2. Also collected in Galactus The Devourer
After Galactus: Captain Marvel Vol. 3 (1999) #8-11
Maximum Security: See Marvel Universe Events. Silver Surfer appears in Maximum Security: Deadly Planet (2000). Iron Man Vol. 3 (1998) #35, and Maximum Security (2000) #2-3
After Maximum Security: Wolverine: Son of Canada (2001)
Silver Surfer: Loftier Than Mortals (1999) #1-2
This was a “Marvel Remix” series and is not necessarily in continuity, though it has been collected in the Epic Collection line.
#1-2:Sun Rise and Shadow Fall (Epic Collection Vol. 14) (2023 paperback, ISBN 978-1302953355 / digital)
Collects Silver Surfer (1987) #1/2 & 139-146; Silver Surfer/Thor Annual 1998; Galactus the Devourer (1999) #1-6; and Silver Surfer: Loftier Than Mortals (1999) #1-2.
Silver Surfer in Defenders & The Order (2001 – 2002)
Defenders Vol. 2 (2001) #1-5, 8, 10-12: See The Defenders
After #4: Infinity Abyss (2002) #2 & 6, Fantastic Four Vol. 3 (1998) #46 & 49, Black Panther Vol. 3 (1998) #35 & 38 (flashback)
After #11: Captain America Vol. 3 (1998) #50/6, Marvel Vault: Defenders (2011) (an inventory story printed retrospectively)
The Order (2002) #1-6: See The Defenders
After #3: Thor Vol. 2 (1998) #41
After #6: Marvel Holiday Special (1991) 2007 (4th Story)
In this period, Silver Surfer also appears in: Alias #21-22 & 25-26 (flashbacks, as listed above)
Silver Surfer, Vol. 4 & Defenders, Vol. 3 (2003 – 2005)
#1-6: Vol. 1: Communion
#7-14: Not collected. The 8-part Revelation story.
After #9 (possibly also after #10-13): X-Statix (2002) #26 (flashback), Thanos #1, She-Hulk (2004) #8
After #14: Hercules, Vol. 3 (2005) #1 (flashback), Cable & Deadpool (2004) #9-10
Defenders Vol. 3 (2005) #1-5: See The Defenders
Captain Universe/Silver Surfer (2006): Captain Universe: Universal Heroes
Collects Captain Universe/Hulk, Captain Universe/Silver Surfer, Captain Universe/Daredevil, Captain Universe/Invisible Woman, Captain Universe/X-23 and Amazing Fantasy #13-14
After Defenders: She-Hulk (2005) #3 (placement unconfirmed)
Silver Surfer: Requiem (2007) & In Thy Name (2008)
Placement of these series is unclear. Due to the galaxy-altering events beginning in Annihilation, this may necessarily occur beforehand despite being released two years later. Also, Requiem may be out of continuity.
Requiem #1-4: Silver Surfer: Requiem
Available in hardcover.
In Thy Name #1-4: Silver Surfer: In Thy Name
After In Thy Name but before Annihilation: Incredible Hulk #94-95
Silver Surfer, Annihilator (2006 – 2011)
Annihilation: See Marvel Universe Events. Silver Surfer appears in his own mini-series in this event as well as the main series, but his mini-series has never been collected on its own – it is inextricably a part of this event.
His order of appearance is Annihilation Prologue (2006), Annihilation: Silver Surfer (2006) #1-4, Annihilation (2006) #1-2 & 5-6, and Annihilation: Heralds Of Galactus (2007) #1-2
In this period, Silver Surfer also appears in: Exiles (2001) #87, She-Hulk (2005) #13, Captain America: Red, White & Blue (2002) OGN SC (likely in flashback), AAFES 4th Edition [The New Avengers: Letters Home] (2007)
Fantastic Four #544-546 & 550: See Fantastic Four
Silver Surfer: In Thy Name (2008) #1-4 were released here, but may occur prior to Annihilation in continuity so oare listed above.
In this period, Silver Surfer also appears in: Incredible Hulk Vol. 3 (2000) #94-95 & 101 (unconfirmed; #94-95 listed above prior to Annihilation), World War Hulk Prologue: World Breaker (2007), ClanDestine (2008) #1, Nova (2007) #13-15, Black Panther (2005) Annual 01
Skaar: Son of Hulk (2008) #7-12: Hulk: Planet Skaar
This is a featured guest-star appearance for an entire arc. Also collects a Prologue issue, in which Surfer does not appear.
After Skaar: Hulk #11-12, Beta Ray Bill: Godhunter #1-3, Fall of the Hulks: Red Hulk (2010) #1
The Thanos Imperative
Collects The Thanos Imperative: Ignition (2010) #1, The Thanos Imperative #1-6, and The Thanos Imperative: Devastation (2011) #1. Available in oversize hardcover.
Silver Surfer (2011) #1-5: Silver Surfer: Devolution
Chaos War: See Marvel Universe Events. Silver Surfer appears in Chaos War: Chaos King (2011) #1, Chaos War (2010) #2-3, Chaos War: God Squad (2011) #1, Incredible Hulks (2010) #620, and Chaos War (2010) #5
Fantastic Four (1961) #583-586: See Fantastic Four
Annihilators #1-4: Annihilators
Available in oversize hardcover. Also contained in Realm of Kings Omnibus.
In this period, Silver Surfer also appears in: Heralds (2010) #4, Girl Comics (2010) #3, Heroic Age: Heroes (2010) #1, Strange Tales II (2010) #1-3, Avengers (2010) #2, 4, & 6, Secret Avengers (2010) #3, Deadpool Team-Up (2010) #883
Silver Surfer makes the following out-of-continuity appearances in this period: What If? 200 (2011) #1, Marvel Zombies Supreme (2011) #4, Dr. Strange: Season One (2012) OGN HC, Shame Itself (2012) #1, Deadpool Kills the Marvel Universe (2012) #4 (may not be the main 616 Surfer), Cataclysm (2013) #0.1 (may not be the main 616 Surfer), Cataclysm: The Ultimates’ Last Stand (2014) #3 (may not be the main 616 Surfer)
Silver Surfer in The Defenders (2011 – 2012)
Mighty Thor #1-6 & Annual 1: See Thor. Silver Surfer is a co-star in this arc.
Fear Itself: See Marvel Universe Events. Silver Surfer appears only in Fearsome Four #2 and then in The Deep, which is effectively a backdoor pilot for The Defenders
Fear Itself: The Deep #1-4
Also includes Fear Itself: Uncanny X-Force #1-3. Available in hardcover.
Defenders (2012) #1-3: Defenders by Matt Fraction, Vol. 1
Collects #1-6 and material from Fear Itself #7 and Marvel Point One (2012)
Defenders (2012) #7-12: Defenders by Matt Fraction, Vol. 2
The Mighty Thor (2011) #8-12: See Thor. Silver Surfer co-stars in this arc.
After Thor #12: Fantastic Four (1961) #600, New Mutants (2009) #44 & 49, Daredevil (2011) #30
Silver Surfer in Marvel Now (2012 – 2015)
Thanos: The Infinity Revelation (2014) OGN HC
Note that this may not fit here in Silver Surfer’s continuity, as this is told across several different timespans. However, present day action fits here.
Thanos: The Infinity Relativity (2015) OGN HC
Note that this may not fit here in Silver Surfer’s continuity, as this is told across several different timespans. However, present day action fits here.
Thanos: The Infinity Finale (2016) OGN HC
Tentative placement.
After Relativity: Uncanny Avengers (2012) #16, FF (2013) #13, Fantastic Four (2013) #16, FF (2013) #16
Infinity: See Marvel Universe Events. Silver Surfer appears only in Infinity: Against The Tide (2013) #1-2
Thanos Annual (2014) Annual 01 (some of this is in flashback)
Silver Surfer (2014) #1-5 by Dan Slott and Mike & Laura Allred
in a single omnibus…
Silver Surfer by Slott & Allred Omnibus
(2018 oversize hardcover, ISBN 978-1302913595 / 2023 oversize hardcover, ISBN 978-1302945619 / digital)
Collects the Slott & Allreds’ run in full from All-New Marvel Now! Point One (2014) #1 (Silver Surfer Story), Silver Surfer (2014) #1-15, and Silver Surfer (2016) #1-14
as originally collected…
#1-5: Vol. 1: New Dawn
Also includes material from All-New Marvel Now! Point One (2014) #1 (Silver Surfer Story), which was also repurposed as Silver Surfer Infinite Comics (2014).
After #3: All-New X-Men (2013) Annual 01, Superior Spider-Man (2013) #31, Fantastic Four (2014) #5 (maybe in flashback), Original Sins (2014) #5
After #5: Uncanny Avengers (2012) #23
#6-10: Vol. 2: Planet of Refugees
After #7: Superior Iron Man (2015) #3
#11-15: Vol. 3: Last Days
Contains the 2016 Eisner Award winner for “Best Single Issue” – the mobius strip themed #11.
After #11: The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl (2015) #4, Howard the Duck (2015) #5, Deadpool (2013) #45
After #12: Guardians Team-Up (2015) #8, Groot (2015) #2-3
Silver Surfer in All-New, All-Different Marvel (2016 – Present)
This series was originally to be titled “Silver Surfer & Dawn” – it is a direct continuation from the prior series.
in a single omnibus…
Silver Surfer by Slott & Allred Omnibus
(2018 oversize hardcover, ISBN 978-1302913595 / 2023 oversize hardcover, ISBN 978-1302945619 / digital)
Collects the Slott & Allreds’ run in full from All-New Marvel Now! Point One (2014) #1 (Silver Surfer Story), Silver Surfer (2014) #1-15, and Silver Surfer (2016) #1-14
as originally collected…
#1-6: Vol. 4: Citizen of Earth
In this period: Howard the Duck (2016) #2 & 4
#7-14: Vol. 5: A Power Greater Than Cosmic
Marvel Fresh Start
Annual 1: Marvel Universe: Time and Again
A brilliant one-shot story that immediately precedes Surfer’s first appearance. This collection includes all of the 2018 flashback annual stories from Amazing Spider-Man Annual 1, Captain America Annual 1, Daredevil Annual 1, Silver Surfer Annual 1, Spider-Man Annual 1, X-Men Gold Annual 2, and Journey Into Mystery: The Birth Of Krakoa #1
Defenders: The Best Defense
Collects a series of Defenders one-shots (in this order) Hulk: Defenders #1, Namor: Defenders #1, Doctor Strange: Defenders #1, and Silver Surfer: Defenders #1, and Defenders #1.
Fantastic Four: Prodigal Sun
Collects a trilogy of 2019 one-shots by Peter David from Fantastic Four: Prodigal Sun, Guardians of the Galaxy: Prodigal Sun, and Silver Surfer: Prodigal Sun. They form a self-contained story that is not required reading for this FF run.
Silver Surfer: Black (2019) #1-5 by Donny Cates & Tradd Moore
A psychedelic trip by to the beginning of the Marvel Universe and back from Donny Cates and Tradd Moore that branches from the events in Guardians of the Galaxy (2019) #1.
#1-5: Black (2020 paperback, ISBN 978-1302927844 / digital)
Silver Surfer Rebirth (2022) #1-5 & Silver Surfer Rebirth: Legacy (2023) #1-5
Ron Marz and Ron Lim write a retcon story that fits in with their original run on the 1987 series.
#1-5: Rebirth (2022 paperback, ISBN 978-1302932213 / digital)
Legacy #1-5: Rebirth: Legacy (2024 paperback, ISBN 978-1302947910 / digital)
Silver Surfer: Ghost Light (2023) #1-5
A series linked to a deep cut of Surfer continuity by Eisner-winner John Jennings and artist Valentine De Landro.
#1-5: Ghost Light (2023 paperback, ISBN 978-1302933043 / digital)
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Hi,
In case you don’t already know, there’s another Marvel/DC crossover from 1995 called “Darkseid vs Galactus: The Hunger” in which the Surfer appears as a herald of Galactus, meaning it happened “before earth” (but maybe is out of continuity).
Regards!
Where does The Enslavers fit?
The Silver Surfer/Thor 1998 annual can’t happen between 134 and 135 of Vol 3 because at the end of 134 the Surfer was badly injured and he spends 135 basically in a coma/massive pain. It’s more likely to occur around 132 as the Surfer mentions having learned about the destruction of Zenn-La and 132 is when he returned to the present and Earth after learning that, any later than that and the stories in the following issues pretty much follow straight on from the end of the previous one
Or even later than that seeing as how in 135 the 1997 annual is referenced as the ‘recent annual’ and that issue was from January 98
Silver Surfer: Loftier Than Mortals from 1999 is missing from the list and I’m not 100% sure where it should be placed
It’s a retelling of the story that began in Fantastic Four 58 where Doom got the Surfers powers, as far as I can tell if that helps place it
Thank you for this list!
On Amazon, “#6-10: Vol. 2: Planet of Refugees” is listed as “Worlds Apart”, not “Planet of Refugees” and is shown with the WA title on the cover.
I was wondering if there were an alternate version or it was an error.
I love your work. It’s very helpful. Thank you so much. :)
You’re right about Requiem not being in continuity, it happens on Earth-77119
This is phenomenal. Thanks. Can you update to the present day? Mike
Mike, I’m slowly making my way around to updating the 100+ guides on the sight with the past year of collections.
Issues #13-15 of Silver Surfer (2014) are Secret Wars tie-ins.