Mark Hazzard: MERC ##1
Marvel Comics • Mark Hazzard: MERC Vol. 1
Writer
Archie Goodwin
Interior Artist
Gray Morrow
Cover Artist
Gray Morrow
Publication Date
November 1986
Cover Variant
Newsstand Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Part of Jim Shooter's 'New Universe' launch. The story introduces Mark Hazzard, a Vietnam veteran turned mercenary who struggles to balance his dangerous profession with his personal life and family responsibilities. It is a 'grounded' take on the action genre without superpowers.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine- (CGC 7.5)
Condition Details
Visible glare from the polybag obscures some areas, but there are multiple small color-breaking spine ticks, slight corner blunting on the bottom left, and minor edge wear along the top right. Some surface scuffing is likely on the black ink backgrounds.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $3 - $10 | Graded (9.8): $60 - $80
Recent Sales
Recent raw newsstand copies in mid-to-high grade typically sell for under $10. High-grade slabbed copies have sold between $50 and $90.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of CGC/CBCS grading exceeds the current market value of a mid-to-high grade copy of this specific title unless it is a guaranteed 9.8.
Notable Features
First appearance of Mark Hazzard. Part of the first wave of Marvel's New Universe line. Newsstand edition featuring a UPC barcode.
Authentication Notes
Standard 1980s newsstand paper stock; colors appear consistent with period-appropriate chemical aging. No signs of reproduction or counterfeiting.