When the 2008 Rittenhouse Iron Man Autographs arrived, they were really good. Really. Good. But in the years since, because of its place in really launching the Marvel movies universe, it has gotten even better. Robert Downey Jr. has gone from Hollywood A-lister to the ultra elite. Jeff Bridges is still Jeff Bridges but now he’s an Oscar winner.
And how about Clark Gregg? When the set came out, he was a common. Now his Agent Coulson, along with Samuel L. Jackson’s Nick Fury, is the thread that ties all the movies (and beyond) together.
Other highlights in the 2008 Rittenhouse Iron Man Autographs include director Jon Favreau and Terrence Howard.
Downey and Bridges are both classified by Rittenhouse as being “Very Limited.” Although not serial numbered, it means that there are between 200 and 300 copies for each card. Those who really want to dig deep into the release may also want to know that Downey has a dated variant.
Not all of the 2008 Rittenhouse Iron Man Autographs are available in packs. Comic creator Larry Lieber is a case topper. The card maker also released a second Robert Downey Jr. autograph separately. This one shows the actor in his Iron Man suit. It’s limited to 150 copies.
Odds for the pack-inserted autographs were never announced. However, they combine with sketch cards and costume cards to land two per box.
This is the only set of Iron Man cards Rittenhouse did. Upper Deck has made sets for the sequels.
2008 Rittenhouse Iron Man Autographs Checklist
Jeff Bridges as Obadiah Stane
Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark
Robert Downey Jr. as Iron Man – sold directly by Rittenhouse
Jon Favreau – Director
Clark Gregg as Agent Phil Coulson
Terrence Howard as James Rhodes
Faran Tahir as Raza
Shaun Toub as Yinsen
Larry Lieber – Comic Creator
