DEATHBLOW ##1
Image Comics • Deathblow Vol. 1
Writer
Jim Lee and Brandon Choi
Interior Artist
Jim Lee
Cover Artist
Jim Lee
Publication Date
May 1993
Cover Variant
Regular Edition (Red Logo / Black Background)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
First appearance of Michael Cray (Deathblow), a former Navy SEAL and member of Team 7. The story follows Cray as he discovers he has terminal cancer and involves himself in a supernatural conspiracy involving the Order of the Black Angel. It is notable for its 'Sin City' style high-contrast black and white interior art.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Near Mint (CGC 9.4)
Condition Details
The book presents very well with sharp corners and vibrant red spot gloss on the title. Minor blunting is visible on the top right corner. The black cover is highly prone to showing fingerprints and spine stress; a few micro-ticks are visible along the spine edge under magnification. Colors are deep with no significant fading.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $3 - $8 | Graded (CGC 9.8): $40 - $60
Recent Sales
Recent raw copies typically sell for approximately $5 as part of bulk lots. High-grade 9.8 slabs have recently settled in the $50 range due to high supply and low demand for 90s era mass-produced books.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading unless for personal sentimental value. The cost of grading (approx. $25-$40) exceeds the market value of the book in almost all grades below a perfect 9.9/10.0.
Notable Features
First appearance of Deathblow (Michael Cray). Iconic 'dark' cover design. Features an Image Comics coupon (Coupon #1) inside for the Image Zero issue. Mass-produced in the early 90's spec boom.
Authentication Notes
Authentic first printing. High-gloss black cover stock is consistent with 1993 Image production. Check for the presence of the 1-800-COLLECT ad on the back cover and the interior coupon to ensure completeness.