The New Guardians #5
DC Comics • The New Guardians Vol. 1
Writer
Cary Bates
Interior Artist
Joe Staton & Pablo Marcos
Cover Artist
Joe Staton
Publication Date
January 1989
Cover Variant
Regular/Direct Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
The New Guardians, a group of heroes chosen by the Guardians of the Universe and Zamaron to succeed them, travel to the Soviet Union. They encounter the Rocket Red Brigade. Key characters include Harbinger, Jet, RAM, and Thomas Kalmaku.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine/Near Mint (CGC 9.0)
Condition Details
Minor spine stress ticks visible under the DC logo and along the left edge. Slight blunting on the bottom-left corner. Surface gloss appears strong, but image shows minor edge wear consistent with careful storage.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $2 - $5; Graded (9.8): $30 - $50
Recent Sales
This issue typically sells in bulk lots or as part of a complete series run; individual raw copies have recently sold for approximately $1.00 - $3.00 on eBay.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of CGC/CBCS grading significantly exceeds the current market value of the comic, even in high grade.
Notable Features
Features the Rocket Red Brigade and explores Cold War themes of the late 80s. Notable for Joe Staton's stylized art. Includes the 'New Format' branding used by DC in the late 80s for higher-quality paper stock.
Authentication Notes
The comic appears to be an authentic 1989 DC product. The 'New Format' logo and $1.25 price point are correct for the era's upscale paper quality. No signs of reproduction.