Alpha Flight ##12
Marvel Comics • Alpha Flight Vol. 1
Writer
John Byrne
Interior Artist
John Byrne
Cover Artist
John Byrne
Publication Date
July 1984
Cover Variant
Direct Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Special double-sized issue featuring the shocking death of Guardian (James MacDonald Hudson) as he sacrifices his life to save his team, fulfilling the promise of the cover tagline 'And One Shall Surely Die!'.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine/Near Mint (CGC 9.0)
Condition Details
Minor spine stress with a few tiny ticks along the left edge, slight blunting at the top and bottom corners, minor edge wear along the top border, and light toning/fading typical of newsprint paper from this era. Overall flat and clean with vibrant color on the pink background.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5 - $15. Graded (CGC 9.0/9.2): $25 - $45.
Recent Sales
Recent raw copies in similar Very Fine condition have sold in the $5 to $10 range on eBay.
Grading Recommendation
Not generally worth the cost of professional grading (CGC/CBCS) unless part of a complete run or personal collection, as the grading and shipping fees exceed the current market value of a 9.0 copy.
Notable Features
Death of Guardian (James MacDonald Hudson), iconic target cover by John Byrne featuring the faces of the team members in crosshairs, Direct Edition with barcode replacement box.
Authentication Notes
Standard 1980s Marvel newsprint paper stock, correct direct edition barcode box, standard Marvel color registration, staples appear clean and properly placed with no signs of tampering.