Advertising in comic books


Comic book advertisements are a common feature in American comic books mainly from the 1940s onwards. As these advertisements were directed at young people, many made sensational claims, and sold the products for a few dollars or less, to be sent to a post office box. Products offered included novelty items, toys, and self-improvement courses such as drawing and body building.

Companies

The Johnson Smith Company placed advertisements for gadgets and toys that appeared on the back cover of many historically significant comic books, including Action Comics #1 and Detective Comics #27 .

Notable products offered

The ads also included recruitment of youngsters to act as salespeople for products such as greeting cards and the national newspaper Grit.