Serpentor

Serpentor is a genetically engineered emperor created by Cobra's scientists using DNA harvested from history's greatest conquerors and military leaders, artificially bred to lead Cobra to victory where others had failed.

Few villains have made an entrance quite like Serpentor, who slithered onto the scene in 1986's G.I. Joe, a Real American Hero #49 — a key issue that collectors still seek out — courtesy of Larry Hama and Rod Whigham. Born from one of Marvel's most beloved action franchises of the Copper Age, this commanding antagonist has shared the page with heavy hitters on both sides of the conflict: Destro, Cobra Commander, Scarlett, and Hawk, a roster that speaks to just how central Serpentor became to the G.I. Joe universe's most dramatic moments. Nearly four decades of appearances across multiple G.I. Joe series confirm this is no minor player but a figure woven deep into the mythology of the franchise. If you're building out your G.I. Joe collection, Serpentor is absolutely one to know.