Suicide Squad ##1
DC Comics • Suicide Squad Vol. 1
Writer
John Ostrander
Interior Artist
Luke McDonnell
Cover Artist
Howard Chaykin
Publication Date
May 1987
Cover Variant
Regular Cover (Direct Edition)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
The first issue of the first ongoing Suicide Squad series. Amanda Waller recruits a team of incarcerated super-villains for a covert mission to destroy the Brimstone monster. Membership includes Deadshot, Rick Flag, Harley Quinn (mentioned in spirit as the team's precursor), Bronze Tiger, and Captain Boomerang.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine+ (CGC 8.5)
Condition Details
Subtle spine stress marks visible on the left edge. Minor blunting on the top-left and bottom-left corners. The black cover is notoriously difficult to maintain and shows light surface scuffing but remains largely vibrant with strong gloss.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $30-$50; Graded 8.5: $80-$100; Graded 9.8: $350-$450
Recent Sales
Recent sales for 9.8 copies have stabilized around $400, while raw copies in mid-to-high grade typically sell for $35-$45.
Grading Recommendation
Worth grading only if a 9.6 or 9.8 is expected after a professional press. Given the visible corner blunting and spine ticks, this likely falls in the 8.5-9.0 range, where grading costs may nearly equal the value added.
Notable Features
First issue of the iconic 1987 series. First appearance of the modern Suicide Squad roster. Death of Blockbuster. Direct Edition (no barcode, contains 'The New Teen Titans' promo in UPC box).
Authentication Notes
Authentic first printing based on paper stock (Baxter-like or standard newsprint for 1987), color density of the black ink, and correct logo placement for the period. No signs of reproduction or counterfeiting are present.