Dragon Ball ##1
Viz Select Comics • Dragon Ball (Viz Select Comics Monthly Series)
Writer
Akira Toriyama
Interior Artist
Akira Toriyama
Cover Artist
Akira Toriyama
Publication Date
March 1998
Cover Variant
Regular Edition (Direct)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
First English comic book appearance of Son Goku, Bulma, and the Dragon Ball mythos. The story adapts the original manga chapters where Goku and Bulma embark on their quest to find the seven Dragon Balls.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine/Near Mint (CGC 9.0)
Condition Details
The image shows the comic inside a protective polybag or sleeve. Visible minor blunting on the bottom left corner. Slight spine stress marks may be present but are obscured by the plastic glare. Front cover surface appears flat with high gloss. No visible color breaks or significant creasing in the main image area.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $100 - $180 / Graded (CGC 9.8): $1,000 - $1,500+
Recent Sales
High-grade copies of the 1998 Viz #1 have seen significant price spikes, with raw copies frequently selling for over $100 and 9.8 graded copies reaching four-figure sums due to the high demand for early English Dragon Ball media.
Grading Recommendation
Worth grading if the comic is indeed a 9.6 or 9.8 after a professional press. The value difference between a raw copy and a high CGC grade for this specific issue is substantial. A professional clean and press is recommended to maximize the grade.
Notable Features
First English language comic book appearance of Son Goku and the Dragon Ball series. Features the iconic 'Goku on Dragon' cover art by Akira Toriyama. Includes a UPC barcode on the bottom left indicating direct market distribution.
Authentication Notes
The item appears to be an authentic 1998 Viz Select Comics release. The paper stock, color saturation of the 'Dragon Ball' logo, and the specific font for the price ($2.95 USA) are consistent with legitimate originals from this era.