Machine Man The Living Robot ##9
Marvel Comics • Machine Man Vol. 1
Writer
Jack Kirby
Interior Artist
Jack Kirby (Pencils), Mike Royer (Inks)
Cover Artist
Jack Kirby
Publication Date
December 1978
Cover Variant
UK Price Variant (12p)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Machine Man (X-51) is confronted by the Solar People on the cover. The story involves Machine Man's continued struggle to fit into human society while being hunted by various factions and dealing with his own identity as a sentient robot.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine+ (CGC 6.5)
Condition Details
Visible color-breaking spine stress/ticks (approx. 4-5), minor corner blunting on top right and bottom left, slight edge wear on top spine, back cover not visible for assessment, but front presents moderate shelf wear consistent with mid-to-high grade raw copy.
Estimated Market Value
Raw (UK Variant): $10-$20; CGC 9.0+ Graded: $60-$90. UK variants typically carry a slight discount or niche interest compared to US cents copies, though rarity can vary.
Recent Sales
Recent sales for mid-grade raw copies of Machine Man #9 range from $8 to $15. Near Mint US copies sell for $30-$45.
Grading Recommendation
Not highly recommended for professional grading. The costs of CGC/CBCS grading plus shipping generally exceed the market value of a mid-grade issue from this run. Worth grading only if it were a high 9.0+ candidate or for personal collection preservation.
Notable Features
Features art and story by legendary creator Jack Kirby. This specific copy is the UK Price Variant (12p instead of 35 cents), distributed in the United Kingdom. Includes UPC barcode with a strike-through mark.
Authentication Notes
Appears to be an authentic 1978 original. The paper stock shows characteristic light tanning/cream coloring typical of bronze-age Marvel newsprint. Printing registration and 'Marvel All-Colour Comics' banner are consistent with period UK exports.