The Astonishing X-Men ##1
Marvel Comics • The Astonishing X-Men (Vol. 1)
Writer
Fabian Nicieza
Interior Artist
Joe Madureira
Cover Artist
Joe Madureira
Publication Date
March 1995
Cover Variant
Regular (Direct Edition)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Part of the 'Age of Apocalypse' crossover event. In an alternate timeline where Professor X is dead, Magneto leads the X-Men against the tyrant Apocalypse. This issue features Magneto's team including Rogue, Quicksilver, Sabretooth, and Blink as they attempt to rescue mutants from Apocalypse's cullings.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine/Near Mint (CGC 9.0)
Condition Details
Displays slight blunting on the bottom right corner and a few minor spine stress ticks visible upon close inspection. The cover gloss appears well-preserved with vibrant colors. No significant creases or color breaks are immediately apparent in the photo.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5 - $10; Graded (CGC 9.8): $60 - $80
Recent Sales
High-grade raw copies consistently sell for under $10. CGC 9.8 copies have recently sold in the $65 range. Large print runs for AoA event books keep raw value low.
Grading Recommendation
Not generally recommended for professional grading unless a 9.8 grade is guaranteed for personal collection. The cost of grading typically exceeds the current market value for mid-to-high raw grades of this specific issue.
Notable Features
First issue of the four-issue limited series replacing Uncanny X-Men during the AoA event. Features iconic Joe Madureira art style that defined the 90s X-Men era. Includes the 'X-Men Deluxe' cover treatment with gold-flecked ink in the logo area.
Authentication Notes
Standard high-gloss cover stock and print quality consistent with 1995 Marvel Deluxe editions. UPC barcode in the bottom left confirms the Direct Edition distribution.