Venom: Lethal Protector ##1
Marvel Comics • Venom: Lethal Protector Vol. 1
Writer
David Michelinie
Interior Artist
Mark Bagley / Sam de la Rosa
Cover Artist
Mark Bagley
Publication Date
February 1993
Cover Variant
Regular (Red Foil)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
First issue of Venom's first solo limited series. Eddie Brock moves to San Francisco and attempts to be a hero after reaching a truce with Spider-Man. He encounters the Life Foundation and is eventually captured to create five new symbiote offspring.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine / Near Mint (CGC 9.0)
Condition Details
Moderate spine stress/ticks visible against the dark black background; slight blunting on the bottom right corner; minor surface scuffing visible on the foil area through the plastic bag; minor edge wear on the left spine edge.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $30 - $45; Graded (CGC 9.8): $120 - $160; Graded (CGC 9.0): $50 - $65
Recent Sales
Raw copies in similar condition consistently sell for $35-$40 on secondary markets. High-grade CGC 9.8 copies remain high-volume sellers due to character popularity.
Grading Recommendation
Optional. Unless the book is a candidate for a 9.8 (nearly flawless), the cost of grading and shipping often exceeds the value bump. High-resolution photos out of the bag would be needed to confirm if it warrants a professional submission.
Notable Features
First solo series for Venom; Iconic red foil cover; Appearance of Spider-Man; Origin of the 'Lethal Protector' era; Key 90s collectible.
Authentication Notes
The red foil reflects correctly; logo design and Marvel block match early 93 standards; paper stock appears to be the standard glossy cover used during the 90s gimmick-cover era.