Nth Man The Ultimate Ninja ##1
Marvel Comics • Nth Man The Ultimate Ninja (1989)
Writer
Larry Hama
Interior Artist
Ron Wagner
Cover Artist
Ron Wagner and Bob McLeod
Publication Date
August 1989
Cover Variant
Regular Direct Edition (Spider-Man head UPC box)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Set in an alternate reality where World War III is looming, the story follows Alfie O'Meagan and John Doe (the Nth Man), two orphans with contrasting paths—one becoming a powerful psychic and the other a deadly ninja.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine/Near Mint (CGC 9.0)
Condition Details
Light color-breaking spine stress ticks visible along the left edge. Minor corner blunting at the top right and bottom left. Good surface gloss and vibrant colors, but slight edge wear suggests it is not a 9.8 specimen.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5 - $15; Graded (9.8): $60 - $90
Recent Sales
Recent raw sales average around $8. High-grade CGC 9.8 copies have recently sold in the $75 range. It is generally considered a bargain-bin key.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading unless for personal sentimental value. The cost of grading (approx. $30-$50) often exceeds the market value of the comic unless it is a guaranteed 9.8 or 9.9.
Notable Features
First appearance of the Nth Man (John Doe). Created by Larry Hama (famed GI Joe writer). Features a Direct Edition Spider-Man face in the UPC box. Notable as a late 80s experimental Marvel title.
Authentication Notes
Authentic 1989 Marvel production. Paper stock is the standard period-appropriate newsprint/uncoated interior with a semi-gloss cover. Staple placement and ink saturation are consistent with Marvel's late 80s manufacturing.