The Mask ##1
Dark Horse Comics • The Mask (1991 Series)
Writer
John Arcudi
Interior Artist
Doug Mahnke
Cover Artist
Doug Mahnke
Publication Date
July 1991
Cover Variant
Regular/A Cover
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Stanley Ipkiss discovers a magical mask that transforms him into a chaotic, green-faced anti-hero with reality-warping powers. This issue begins the first limited series and sets a significantly darker tone than the 1994 film adaptation.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine (CGC 8.0)
Condition Details
Moderate spine stress with some color breaking ticks, minor corner blunting on the top and bottom right, and potential light surface wear visible on the white backgrounds.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $30 - $50; Graded (CGC 9.8): $250 - $350; Graded (CGC 8.0): $60 - $80
Recent Sales
Recent eBay sales for raw copies range from $35 to $60 depending on condition. 9.8 graded copies have recently fluctuated between $275 and $400.
Grading Recommendation
Only worth grading if the comic is a candidate for a 9.6 or 9.8. Based on visible spine ticks, it may fall into the 8.0-8.5 range, making the cost of grading higher than the value added. A professional press could improve the grade.
Notable Features
First issue of the first 'The Mask' solo limited series. Key title in 90s independent comics. Cover features iconic Doug Mahnke art with the character holding a bomb-filled pie.
Authentication Notes
Appears to be an authentic first printing from 1991. Check for the lack of a 'Second Printing' notice on the interior indicia page to confirm.