The Defenders #81
Marvel Comics • The Defenders Vol. 1
Writer
Ed Hannigan
Interior Artist
Herb Trimpe
Cover Artist
Herb Trimpe
Publication Date
March 1980
Cover Variant
Regular/Direct Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Story titled 'Night of the Negation.' The Defenders (Hulk, Namor, Valkyrie, Hellcat, Nighthawk) battle the Unliving in the Dimension of Exile. This issue continues the Bronze Age run of the classic non-team.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine (CGC 6.0)
Condition Details
Visible surface scuffing/glare on the plastic bag obscures some detail, but the book shows moderate spine stress with color-breaking ticks. Bottom right corner appears slightly blunted. There is significant color rubbing/fading along the spine edge and possible minor creasing on the top right corner area. White areas show slight yellowing.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5 - $10; Graded (9.6+): $45 - $60
Recent Sales
Recent raw copies in similar mid-grade condition have sold for $4-$8. High-grade (9.8) copies sell for approximately $75-$90.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The costs of grading (approx. $25-$40 + shipping) exceed the current market value of a mid-grade copy of this issue. Better kept as a raw reader copy or in a collection.
Notable Features
Includes a Direct Edition UPC barcode. Notable for Herb Trimpe's dynamic Hulk cover art. Features appearances by the core Defenders team and the secondary antagonist force, the Unliving.
Authentication Notes
The comic displays authentic 1980s Marvel printing characteristics, including the 40 cent price point and the standard Direct Edition strike-through barcode. No signs of restoration or counterfeiting are visible from the exterior.