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 premiere series. The Hulk and Doctor Strange attempt to save Namor the Sub-Mariner from the villain Necrodamus, who seeks to sacrifice him to gain cosmic power.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good/Fine (CGC 5.0)
Condition Details
Visible color breaking spine stress ticks, minor blunting of the top and bottom left corners, slight edge wear along the right side, and general cover scuffing/shelf wear reducing surface gloss.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $150 - $225; Graded (CGC 5.0): $250 - $300
Recent Sales
CGC 5.0 copies typically sell for $230-$280 in recent auctions; CGC 9.0+ copies often exceed $800-$1,000.
Grading Recommendation
Borderline. While a key Bronze Age issue, the 5.0-6.0 estimated range may not significantly increase the value over the cost of grading and shipping unless a professional clean and press is utilized to potentially bump the grade to a 6.0.
Notable Features
Bronze Age Key; first issue of the solo Defenders series; includes Hulk, Namor, and Doctor Strange; iconic Sal Buscema cover.
Authentication Notes
Appears authentic with period-accurate 20-cent price point, Marvel Comics Group header, and correct wear patterns for 1970s newsprint paper stock.