Excalibur ##85
Marvel Comics • Excalibur Vol. 1
Writer
Warren Ellis
Interior Artist
Ken Lashley
Cover Artist
Ken Lashley
Publication Date
January 1995
Cover Variant
Regular/Direct Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Part III of the 'Soul Sword Trilogy'. Wolverine guest stars alongside the Excalibur team (Nightcrawler, Shadowcat, Colossus, Captain Britain, and Daytripper) to battle the threat of Graquemouth and deal with the magical implications of the Soulsword.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine/Near Mint (CGC 9.0)
Condition Details
The book appears remarkably flat with vibrant colors. Slight blunting on the top-left corner and minor spine stress ticks are visible upon close inspection. The bottom right edge has minor shelf wear. No obvious color-breaking creases or staining present.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $3 - $8 | Graded (9.8): $40 - $60
Recent Sales
Recent raw copies in similar high-grade condition have sold for between $4 and $10. High-grade slabbed copies infrequently appear on the market due to low value-to-grading-cost ratio.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. While the condition is high (estimated 9.0-9.4 range), the market value of this specific issue does not currently justify the grading fees, which would exceed the final market price of the slab.
Notable Features
Includes 'X-Men Deluxe' branding on cover. Features a prominent Wolverine cover by Ken Lashley. Direct Edition with barcode. Part of the Warren Ellis run which redefined the team's tone.
Authentication Notes
Authentic 1990s Marvel production. Correct glossy cover stock and interior newsprint/glossy hybrid common for the 'Deluxe' line of that era. Staple placement is centered and original.