Darker Image #1
Image Comics • Darker Image Vol. 1
Writer
Sam Kieth, Jim Lee, Rob Liefeld
Interior Artist
Sam Kieth, Jim Lee, Rob Liefeld
Cover Artist
Sam Kieth, Jim Lee, Rob Liefeld
Publication Date
March 1993
Cover Variant
Regular Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
An anthology-style issue intended to launch three new series. It features short stories introducing The Maxx, Deathblow, and Bloodwulf. Only The Maxx and Deathblow went on to have successful long-running series.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Near Mint (9.4)
Condition Details
Appears remarkably well-preserved in bag and board. Sharp corners and clean edges are visible. Minimal spine stress; no visible color-breaking creases on the front cover. Minor blunting possibly visible at the top-left corner tip.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5 - $15; Graded (9.8): $60 - $85
Recent Sales
Raw copies typically sell for $5-10. High-grade CGC 9.8 copies have recently sold in the $70 range. Platinum and Gold variants hold significantly higher value than this regular edition.
Grading Recommendation
Generally not recommended for grading unless you are certain it is a 9.8 contender for a registry set. The cost of grading currently exceeds the market value for most mid-to-high raw grades because this was a very high-print-run book from the 1990s.
Notable Features
First appearance of The Maxx (Julie Winters & Mr. Gone). First appearance of Deathblow (Michael Grey). First appearance of Bloodwulf. High print run characteristic of early 90s Image Comics.
Authentication Notes
Authentic first printing. Features the standard $2.50 cover price and the marble-pattern backgrounds typical of the regular 1993 release. Bagged and boarded which has preserved the gloss.