The Mask ##3
Dark Horse Comics • The Mask (1991 Series)
Writer
John Arcudi
Interior Artist
Doug Mahnke
Cover Artist
Doug Mahnke
Publication Date
July 1991
Cover Variant
Regular/A Cover
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Continuing the dark and violent original story of the Mask (Big Head). This issue follows the chaos caused by the mask's influence, drastically different from the later Jim Carrey film adaptation. Features Stanley Ipkiss and the relentless Lieutenant Kellaway.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine- (CGC 7.5)
Condition Details
Visible blunting on the top left and bottom right corners. Minor spine stress marks suggesting slight reading wear. Possible light edge wear on the right side. The overall white background appears clean without significant foxing or staining.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $10 - $20; Graded (9.8): $150 - $200
Recent Sales
Recent raw copies in Mid-to-High grade have sold for approximately $12-$18. Highly graded 9.8 CGC copies have seen sales between $140 and $180 depending on market demand and census counts.
Grading Recommendation
Not highly recommended for professional grading unless it is a sentimental piece or a guaranteed 9.8. Due to the high cost of grading fees relative to the market value of a 7.5-8.0 copy, the return on investment is minimal.
Notable Features
Early appearance of the character in his first standalone miniseries. Features the iconic 'Big Head' design by Doug Mahnke. Notable for its dark humor and graphic violence typical of early 90s Dark Horse titles.
Authentication Notes
Authentic first printing based on trade dress, logo placement, and 'Dark Horse' branding. Ink saturation on the watercolor-style cover aligns with 1991 production standards.