GRAFIK MUZIK #no. 3
Caliber Press • Grafik Muzik
Writer
Mike Allred
Interior Artist
Mike Allred
Cover Artist
Mike Allred
Publication Date
1991
Cover Variant
Regular/A Cover
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
This issue is a significant 'prototype' key. It features early appearances of Frank Eincheck (who becomes Madman). The story follows various surrealist and pop-art inspired vignettes including the characters Frank, the G-Men, and others that would later populate the Madman universe at Tundra and Dark Horse.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine/Very Fine (CGC 7.0)
Condition Details
The book shows several signs of age and wear. The most significant defect is a price sticker residue/sticker on the top right corner. There are visible spine stress marks (spine ticks), mild corner blunting on the bottom right, and potential tanning along the white edges of the cover. The polybag is wrinkled, which may be masking or causing slight surface indentations.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $50 - $100 | Graded: $250 - $450 (highly dependent on the presence of the Madman character appearance)
Recent Sales
Copies of Malik Muzik #3 have seen a surge due to the interest in Mike Allred's Madman. Recent raw sales for mid-to-high grade copies range from $40 up to $130 depending on condition.
Grading Recommendation
Considering the price sticker on the cover, professional grading may peak at a 7.0 to 8.0 without successful restoration/removal. However, because this is the first appearance of 'Madman' in a prototype/early form, it is a high-demand key issue. A professional press and expert sticker removal could significantly bump the grade and value.
Notable Features
Prototype appearance of Madman (Frank Einstein). Significant independent key from the early 90s. Features Mike Allred's signature pop-art style which would later define his career.
Authentication Notes
Authentic 1991 Caliber Press publication. No known counterfeits exist, but the paper stock is typical of early 90s independent press (semi-gloss cover with newsprint/matte interior), making it prone to tanning and spine stress.