Tarot: Witch of the Black Rose ##5
BroadSword Comics • Tarot: Witch of the Black Rose (2000)
Writer
Jim Balent
Interior Artist
Jim Balent
Cover Artist
Jim Balent
Publication Date
November 2000
Cover Variant
Regular Edition (Cover A)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Features the protagonist Tarot in a fantasy-adventure setting. This issue continues the early world-building of Jim Balent's supernatural and high-fantasy mythos, heavily featuring the Dragon-Goddess theme.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine/Near Mint (CGC 9.0)
Condition Details
Minor spine stress visible along the left edge, slight blunting on the bottom right corner, and minor surface scuffing visible under direct light. The book appears flat with vibrant colors and no major creases.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $20 - $35; Graded (9.8): $120 - $160
Recent Sales
Recent raw sales for early issues range from $15 to $40 depending on specific back issue demand and condition. Higher grade 9.8 slabs generally fetch a premium due to the low print runs of early BroadSword issues.
Grading Recommendation
Only worth grading if the owner is confident of a 9.8 grade and seeking long-term preservation. A professional clean and press could likely elevate this from a 9.0 to a 9.4/9.6 given the lack of color-breaking defects.
Notable Features
Early issue in the long-running independent series; Jim Balent creator-owned work; features a Mature Readers rating; identified by the $2.95 USD price point and distinctive Broadsword logo.
Authentication Notes
The paper stock is consistent with early 2000s glossy independent comics. Ink saturation and 'Balent' signature on the cover art are clear and crisp, indicating a genuine first printing.