THE DEFENDERS ##1
Marvel Comics Group • The Defenders Vol. 1
Writer
Steve Englehart
Interior Artist
Sal Buscema
Cover Artist
Sal Buscema
Publication Date
August 1972
Cover Variant
Regular/Direct Edition (20 Cent Price Variant)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
First issue of The Defenders ongoing series. Plot involves Doctor Strange, The Hulk, and Sub-Mariner battling the sorcerer Necrodamus who seeks to sacrifice Namor to gain power from the Undying Ones.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good (CGC 4.0)
Condition Details
Moderate spine stress and wear, noticeable corner blunting on the bottom left and top left, significant color-breaking crease on the bottom right corner, slight vertical surface wear, and general edge wear. Spine shows some whitening/abrasion.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $60 - $80; Graded (CGC 4.0): $120 - $150
Recent Sales
Recent sales for 4.0 range from $110-$140. Higher grades (9.0+) command $600-$900+.
Grading Recommendation
In this condition (estimated mid-grade/low-grade), value increase after grading costs may be minimal. Worth grading only for personal collection preservation or if a professional cleaning/pressing could elevate it to a 5.5-6.0 range.
Notable Features
First appearance of Necrodamus. Key Bronze Age #1 issue. Features the core 'non-team' lineup of Doctor Strange, Hulk, and Namor. Iconic cover by Sal Buscema.
Authentication Notes
Appears to be an authentic 1972 original based on the 20-cent price point, paper oxidation (yellowing) visible on the edges, and period-accurate color saturation and printing dots.