The Defenders ##1
Marvel Comics • The Defenders Vol. 1
Writer
Steve Englehart
Interior Artist
Sal Buscema
Cover Artist
Sal Buscema
Publication Date
August 1972
Cover Variant
Regular
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
First issue of the ongoing series featuring the 'non-team' of Dr. Strange, Hulk, and Namor. They battle the sorcerer Necrodamus, who intends to sacrifice Namor to gain ultimate power.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Good+ (CGC 2.5)
Condition Details
Heavy spine wear with numerous color-breaking stress lines and significant chipping along the left edge. Significant corner blunting and creasing on the right-side edge and bottom-right corner. Obvious surface wear, dirt/soiling on the white border areas, and general loss of cover gloss.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $40 - $60; Graded (2.5): $75 - $95
Recent Sales
Recent sales for low-grade raw copies range between $35 and $65 depending on specific eye appeal. Mid-grade (6.0) copies often reach $200+.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading in this condition. The grading fees and shipping costs would likely exceed the incremental value gained for a 2.5 grade. Best kept as a 'reader' copy or for a low-grade collection.
Notable Features
First appearance of Necrodamus. Key Bronze Age #1 issue. Features Hulk, Doctor Strange, and Sub-Mariner.
Authentication Notes
The 20-cent cover price, aging of the paper stock (tanning visible on edges), and specific printing bleed are consistent with authentic 1972 Marvel production.