Madballs #5
Marvel Comics (Star Comics imprint) • Madballs (Vol. 1)
Writer
Michael Gallagher
Interior Artist
Howard Post
Cover Artist
Adam Kubert
Publication Date
August 1987
Cover Variant
Regular/Direct Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Based on the AmToy/TCFC toy line. The Madballs (Screamin' Meemie, Slobulus, etc.) deal with zany antics and their rivalry with the 'Badballs' and the villainous Dr. Franken-Beans. This issue features a storyline where the Madballs appear to multiply.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good (CGC 4.0)
Condition Details
Moderate to heavy spine stress with color-breaking ticks; significant blunting and rounding of the bottom left corner; visible yellow circular price sticker on the bottom right; possible creasing on the top left edge; shelf wear and minor surface scuffing visible on the black background.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5 - $10; Graded (CGC 9.8): $150 - $200. This specific copy in current condition: $3 - $5.
Recent Sales
Low-grade copies typically sell for under $10. High-grade (NM) raw copies range from $20-$30. High-grade slabbed copies see a significant premium due to the low survival rate of kids' comics in top condition.
Grading Recommendation
Not worth professional grading. The current estimated grade (4.0 - 5.0) would cost more in fees than the comic's market value. Only recommended for nostalgic personal collection preservation.
Notable Features
Features the '1987 The Year of the Reader' logo on the bottom left. Published under Marvel's 'Star Comics' imprint which targeted younger audiences. Iconic 80's gross-out humor toy tie-in.
Authentication Notes
Appears to be an authentic 1987 newsstand-era printing. Staples show slight oxidation consistent with age. Color density and paper stock (newsprint) appear consistent with Marvel/Star manufacturing from the late 1980s.