Watchmen ##1
DC Comics • Watchmen
Writer
Alan Moore
Interior Artist
Dave Gibbons
Cover Artist
Dave Gibbons
Publication Date
September 1986
Cover Variant
Regular
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
First issue of the landmark limited series. Introduction of Rorschach, Nite Owl, Silk Spectre, Doctor Manhattan, and Ozymandias. The story begins with the murder of Edward Blake (The Comedian).
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Near Mint- (CGC 9.2)
Condition Details
Minor spine stress visible along the left edge; corners appear generally sharp but subject to polybag glare; slight edge wear on top edge; no color-breaking creases visible on front cover.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $30.00 - $60.00; Graded (9.8): $250.00 - $350.00; Graded (9.2): $80.00 - $110.00
Recent Sales
9.8 grades regularly sell between $250-$300; raw copies in high grade fluctuate between $45-$75 depending on humidity and spine integrity.
Grading Recommendation
Worth grading only if it can achieve a 9.6 or higher; a professional press and clean is recommended to remove minor spine ticks and improve surface gloss prior to submission.
Notable Features
First appearances of all main Watchmen characters; iconic smiley face button cover; key Bronze/Modern age bronze crossover; no UPC on direct market copies.
Authentication Notes
Consistent with 1986 DC print quality; correct paper stock thickness for Baxter paper used in this prestige format series; alignment of the clock logo is standard.