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MANTISCELESTIAL MADONNA
The Celestial Madonna, destined to give birth to the most important being in the universe. Mantis is an empath who can sense and manipulate emotions, a martial arts master trained by the Priests of Pama, and one of the most cosmically significant characters in Marvel history. Pom Klementieff's endearing MCU portrayal has made Mantis a beloved member of the Guardians of the Galaxy, bringing humor and heart to the cosmic team.
CARD
#063
DEBUT
1973
FIRST
AVG #112
DEMAND
HIGH
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2025 TOPPS MARVEL MINT
This premium trading card is part of the 2025 Topps Marvel Mint collection. Each card showcases Marvel's greatest heroes and villains with exceptional artwork and collectible value.
The Celestial Madonna
Mantis first appeared in Avengers #112 (June 1973), created by Steve Englehart and Don Heck. She was introduced as a Vietnamese woman raised by the Priests of Pama, a sect of the Kree who trained her in martial arts and helped develop her empathic abilities. Her origin story is one of Marvel's most complex.
The "Celestial Madonna" storyline revealed Mantis was destined to mate with the eldest Cotati (a plant-based alien race) and give birth to the Celestial Messiah—the most important being in the universe. This cosmic significance made her central to Marvel's cosmic mythology, though the MCU has not yet explored this aspect of her character.
Mantis has one of the strangest publication histories in comics. Creator Steve Englehart took her to DC Comics (as "Willow") and Eclipse Comics (as "Lorelei") before returning her to Marvel. This cross-company journey is unique in superhero comics and speaks to Englehart's attachment to the character he created.
Powers and Abilities
EMPATHIC POWERS
- Sense and read emotions
- Induce sleep through touch
- Emotional manipulation
PHYSICAL ABILITIES
- Master martial artist
- Plant communication (comics)
- Enhanced agility
MCU: Guardian of the Galaxy
Pom Klementieff debuted as Mantis in "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2" (2017), where she was introduced as Ego's servant/companion. Her naivety and literal interpretation of social cues provided comic relief, while her empathic abilities proved crucial to the plot. Her bond with Drax became a fan-favorite relationship.
Mantis appeared in "Avengers: Infinity War," "Avengers: Endgame," "Thor: Love and Thunder," and "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3." The third Guardians film revealed she is Ego's daughter and Peter Quill's half-sister—a major character revelation. Her decision to leave the team and find her own path sets up potential solo adventures.
INVESTMENT ALERT: Mantis cards benefit from beloved MCU portrayal and Guardians connection. Avengers #112 (first appearance) has appreciated significantly. Her sibling relationship with Star-Lord adds narrative importance. The Celestial Madonna storyline remains unexplored MCU potential. Any solo project would boost values.
Team Affiliations
GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY
Core member (MCU)
AVENGERS
Classic member (comics)
PRIESTS OF PAMA
Trained by Kree monks
2025 Marvel Mint Collector Analysis
Card #063 Mantis offers Silver tier value with strong MCU presence and unexplored cosmic potential. Her sibling relationship with Star-Lord adds narrative significance. The Celestial Madonna storyline could be adapted in future cosmic projects. Pom Klementieff's charming portrayal ensures continued fan interest.
PARALLEL CHASE
Green parallels match her antennae and costume
INVESTMENT RATING
HIGH - Beloved Guardian with cosmic destiny