Vintage Astro Boy Collecting: Inside a Rare Private Vault
Short history,
Created by the legendary Osamu Tezuka (often called the "God of Manga"), Astro Boy is one of the most significant cultural icons in history. Known in Japan as Tetsuwan Atom (Mighty Atom), the character didn't just entertain; he laid the blueprint for the entire modern anime and manga industry.
The "Birth" of a Hero
Astro Boy first appeared in April 1951 as a supporting character in the manga Ambassador Atom. However, he was so popular that Tezuka gave him his own standalone series starting in 1952, which ran for 16 years.
The Story: Set in a futuristic Tokyo, the story begins with tragedy. Dr. Tenma, head of the Ministry of Science, loses his son Tobio in a car accident. In his grief, he builds a highly advanced robot in his son's image.
The 1963 Anime Revolution
In 1963, Astro Boy became the first popular animated television series in Japan. It was also the first Japanese anime to be broadcast in the United States (via NBC), opening the door for the global 'anime wave'.
In 1963, Astro Boy became the first popular animated television series in Japan. It was also the first Japanese anime to be broadcast in the United States (via NBC), opening the door for the global 'anime wave'.