Key Collector Comics
Red Guardian
View Key Issues

Creation & Design

Red Guardian was created during the Cold War era, reflecting the geopolitical tensions of the time. His design was inspired by Captain America, serving as a Soviet counterpart.

Early Years

Initially introduced as a villain to the Avengers, Red Guardian's character evolved over time, showcasing his complex motivations and loyalty to his country.

Character Development

Over the years, Red Guardian has transitioned from a villain to a more nuanced character, often portrayed as a hero with conflicting loyalties, reflecting the complexities of his background.

Cultural Reception

Red Guardian has received mixed reviews, often seen as a symbol of the Cold War era, but has gained a following for his depth and character development.

Character Details

Real Name:
Alexei Shostakov
Aliases:
Red Guardian, Captain Russia
Species:
Human
Gender:
Male
Affiliations:
Soviet Super-Soldiers, Avengers, Winter Guard
Abilities:
Superhuman strength, Enhanced agility, Expert martial artist, Skilled tactician
Equipment:
Red Guardian costume, Shield
Weight:
200lbs
Height:
6' 10"
Eye Color:
blue
Hair Color:
black

Clicking on the eBay link and making a purchase may result in this site earning a commission from the eBay Partner Network.

Avengers, The #43

Marvel ⋅ 1967

View Details
Avengers, The #43
 
Low
$30
Mid
$80
High
$280

Key Facts

1st appearance of the Red Guardian, Alexi Shostakov- husband of Natasha Romanova, the Black Widow

[July 2022 - Marvel recently trademarked the title Red Guardian: Generations / September 2022 - confirmed for the Thunderbolts movie]

Avengers, The #44

Marvel ⋅ 1967

View Details
Avengers, The #44
 
Low
$5
Mid
$12
High
$55

Key Facts

Partial origin of the Black Widow

Origin and death of Natasha's husband, the Red Guardian

Defenders #35

Marvel ⋅ 1976

View Details  ⋅  View Variants (1)
Defenders #35
 
Low
$1
Mid
$2
High
$5

Key Facts

1st appearance of the second Red Guardian, Tania Belinsky, later becomes Starlight

Marvel Super Heroes UK #380

Marvel UK ⋅ 1981

View Details
Marvel Super Heroes UK #380
 
Low
$1
Mid
$3
High
$12

Key Facts

1st cameo appearance of Opal Luna Saturnyne, Majestrix of the Omniverse

1st team appearance of Avant Guard

Reprint of Red Guardian first appearance from The Avengers #43 (1967)

Captain America #352

Marvel ⋅ 1989

View Details  ⋅  View Variants (1)
Captain America #352
 
Low
$3
Mid
$9
High
$30

Key Facts

1st team appearance of the Supreme Soviets: Perun, Sputnik, Crimson Dynamo, and Red Guardian, Josef Petkus

1st appearance of Fantasma

Namor The Sub-Mariner Annual #1

Marvel ⋅ 1991

View Details  ⋅  View Variants (1)
Namor The Sub-Mariner Annual #1
 
Low
$1
Mid
$2
High
$3

Key Facts

Origin of Namor

1st appearance of the third Red Guardian, Aleksey Lebedev who preceded the others in continuity

Iron Man #9

Marvel ⋅ 1998

View Details
Iron Man #9
 
Low
$1
Mid
$5
High
$15

Key Facts

1st team appearance of Winter Guard: Red Guardian, Vanguard, Sibercat, Darkstar, Vostok (Sputnik), Fantasma

Widowmaker #1

Marvel ⋅ 2011

View Details  ⋅  View Variants (1)
Widowmaker #1
 
Low
$1
Mid
$2
High
$3

Key Facts

1st appearance of the third Ronin, revealed to be Alexi Shostakov, the original Red Guardian and husband of Black Widow

Adjust Your Filters To See More Comics!

By default Key Collector searches for Standard Cover Key Issues.

Adjust the "Variants" and/or "Non-Key Issues" search filters above for additional content:

  • Variant Covers ([[totalVariants]])
  • Non-Key Issues ([[totalNonKeys]])

At Key Collector, our primary focus is on unearthing those rare Standard Cover Key Issues for you. However, the world of comic collectibles is vast and varied. We want to make sure you have the tools to explore it all!