Halfpenny Marvel
Cover 'Halfpenny Marvel #74 from 1895 | |
| Editor | Harold J. Garrish |
|---|---|
| Categories | Story paper |
| Frequency | Weekly |
| First issue | 1893 |
| Final issue | 1922 |
| Company | Amalgamated Press |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Based in | London |
| Language | English |
The Marvel, originally known as the Halfpenny Marvel, was the first British boys' story paper launched by Alfred Harmsworth, the founder of the Amalgamated Press. The publication was conceived with the intention of countering the influence of "penny dreadfuls"—sensational and often violent literature for young readers. Its aim was to produce "pure, healthy literature" at a cheaper price, and the slogan "Started to Suppress Bad Books for Boys" appeared on its cover for many years, underscoring its mission.
The Halfpenny Marvel made its debut on 15 November 1893 and sold for a halfpenny until 23 January 1904, a run of 533 issues. The price was raised to a penny on 30 January 1904 and ran until 22 April 1922, a run of 952 issues.