Iron Man ##194
Marvel Comics • Iron Man Vol. 1
Writer
Denny O'Neil
Interior Artist
Luke McDonnell
Cover Artist
Luke McDonnell
Publication Date
May 1985
Cover Variant
Direct Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Features James Rhodes as Iron Man and Tony Stark (back in the original suit). The story involves the original Iron Man sinking in the sea while the new Iron Man is adrift in a strange dimension. Guest appearances by West Coast Avengers members including Henry Pym, Hawkeye, and Mockingbird.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine- (CGC 7.5)
Condition Details
Visible moderate spine stress marks and ticks, some color-breaking. Minor blunting at the top and bottom left corners. Slight shelf wear evident on the glossy surface under light. Centering is slightly off-register toward the left spine.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5.00 - $12.00; Graded (CGC 9.8 equivalent): $60.00 - $80.00
Recent Sales
Recent eBay sales for raw copies in mid-to-high grade average around $8.00. High-grade slabbed copies intermittently reach higher premiums but trade volume is low for this specific non-key issue.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of CGC/CBCS grading fees and shipping would likely exceed the total market value of the comic in this condition. Best kept as a reader copy or part of a run in a bag and board.
Notable Features
Features the 'Direct Edition' barcode with no strike-through. Notable for the transition period of Tony Stark returning to health while Jim Rhodes holds the Iron Man mantle. No major first appearances or key deaths.
Authentication Notes
Authentic Copper Age comic. Correct 65-cent price point for 1985. Paper stock appears to be standard newsprint for the era showing natural aging (slight off-white tones). Typical Marvel staple placement and cover gloss.