Watchmen ##3
DC Comics • Watchmen (1986-1987)
Writer
Alan Moore
Interior Artist
Dave Gibbons
Cover Artist
Dave Gibbons
Publication Date
November 1986
Cover Variant
Regular
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Title: 'The Judge of All the Earth'. Dr. Manhattan travels to Mars after a televised interview turns into a media circus regarding his alleged link to cancer in former associates. This issue explores the tension of the Cold War and the background of Silk Spectre and Nite Owl.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine (CGC 8.0)
Condition Details
Visible glare from polybag obscures some surface details, but spine stress marks are present along the left edge. Minor blunting on the top-left corner and slight roll visible on the bottom edge. General shelf wear consistent with mid-to-high grade raw copy.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $15 - $25; CGC 9.8: $150 - $200; CGC 8.0: $40 - $50
Recent Sales
Raw copies in similar condition typically sell for $18 to $22 on eBay. CGC 9.6 copies have recently moved for approximately $85-$100.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading unless the collector desires protection and the book is a 9.6 or higher. The value of an 8.0/9.0 copy usually does not justify the current grading fees ($25+ plus shipping). Pressing might improve the grade by removing non-color breaking spine stress.
Notable Features
Features the iconic 'Fallout Shelter' cover art. Includes the back-matter technical documents (The New Frontiersman) which add depth to the world-building of the series.
Authentication Notes
First printing confirmed by the price ($1.50) and the absence of later printing notations in the indicia. No signs of reproduction or counterfeiting; paper stock appears consistent with 1980s DC Baxter or high-quality newsstand paper.