Tarot: Witch of the Black Rose ##4
BroadSword Comics • Tarot: Witch of the Black Rose Vol. 1
Writer
Jim Balent
Interior Artist
Jim Balent
Cover Artist
Jim Balent
Publication Date
September 2000
Cover Variant
Regular Cover (Cover A)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Features the character Tarot, a powerful witch. This issue specifically involves the skeletal 'Skeleton Maidens' and the villainous Lord of the Sky. It explores BroadSword's signature mix of fantasy, adventure, and adult-oriented themes.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine/Near Mint (CGC 9.0)
Condition Details
Minor spine stress marks visible on the left edge. Slight blunting on the top right corner. Gloss is well-preserved. Appears to have been kept in a poly-bag with board, maintaining overall flatness.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $15 - $25; Graded (9.8): $100 - $140
Recent Sales
Recent raw sales for early issues of Tarot range from $10 to $30 depending on condition. High-grade graded copies attract a premium due to the independent nature of the publisher.
Grading Recommendation
Generally only worth grading if the owner expects a 9.8 grade, as the grading fees can often exceed the market value of a mid-to-high raw grade for this specific issue. Personal satisfaction or archival protection are secondary reasons to grade.
Notable Features
Early issue in the long-running independent series. Jim Balent (known for Catwoman) is the sole creator. No UPC on cover indicates the direct market nature of early BroadSword books.
Authentication Notes
First printing established by the $2.95 cover price. Print quality is consistent with BroadSword's 2000-era production on glossy stock. Staple alignment and registration appear correct for the period.