The Greek version of the American "Classics Comics" (renamed "Classics Illustrated" in 1947), were first published on March 1, 1951, by the Pehlivanidis brothers ("Atlantis" publications).

The first edition sold out in no time and the series was a great success for over two decades. From 1953, the Greek version included titles inspired by Greek mythology and history with over 20 issues dedicated to the Greek Revolution of 1821.

Among the illustrators were the artists Mentis Bostanzoglou, Kostas Grammatopoulos, Akis Avagianos, Giorgos Vakalos. Vassilis Rotas wrote most of the scripts. Other authors were Eleni Papadakis, Sofia Mavroides-Papadakis, Irini Foteinou.

The Greek series, despite any imperfections, was a model of writing for the domestic comics scene and a source of inspiration for the creators who would follow. "Classics Illustrated" also established its own aesthetic for Greek comics, which even now remains authentic and recognizable (Aris Malandrakis, The Aristocrats of Comics, Nine Magazine, issue 36).