HARDWARE #NO. 2
DC Comics (Milestone Media) • Hardware Vol. 1
Writer
Dwayne McDuffie
Interior Artist
Denys Cowan
Cover Artist
Denys Cowan
Publication Date
Early May 1993
Cover Variant
Regular/Direct Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Curtis Metcalf (Hardware) continues his high-tech war against his corrupt employer, Edwin Alva. In 'More of the Same,' Metcalf faces off against Alva's security forces while grappling with the moral complexities of his vigilante crusade.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine- (CGC 7.5)
Condition Details
Moderate spine stress with color-breaking ticks along the left edge. Visible horizontal crease/indentation across the top 'HARDWARE' logo. Minor corner blunting on the top right. Slight surface wear on the white areas of the 'M' Milestone logo and the bottom-left UPC box area.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $3 - $8 / Graded (9.8): $40 - $60
Recent Sales
Recent raw copies in similar mid-to-high grade condition typically sell for $2 to $5 on secondary markets like eBay. 9.8 graded copies occasionally reach $50 but demand is low for non-key early issues of this series.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of grading (approx. $25-$40) exceeds the market value of the book in this condition. It is a great reader copy or filler for a Milestone collection.
Notable Features
Early appearance of Hardware; Part of the original 'Milestone Media' launch wave; Features the DC/Milestone 'M' logo; Distinctive yellow-background cover art by Denys Cowan.
Authentication Notes
Authentic 1990s DC/Milestone production. Paper stock is standard glossy cover with matte interior pages typical of the era. No signs of reproduction or counterfeiting.