The Defenders ##1
Marvel Comics • The Defenders Vol. 1
Writer
Steve Englehart
Interior Artist
Sal Buscema
Cover Artist
Sal Buscema
Publication Date
August 1972
Cover Variant
Regular/A Cover
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
First issue of the ongoing Defenders series. The story 'I Slay by the Stars!' features Hulk, Doctor Strange, and Sub-Mariner (Namor) teaming up against the sorcerer Necrodamus. It continues the team's origin from Marvel Feature #1-3.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Good/Very Good (CGC 3.0)
Condition Details
Visible heavy wear including significant spine stress and multiple color-breaking creases across the right side and corners. Severe corner blunting at bottom left. Prominent creases on the bottom right and top right edges. Appears to have a slight subscription or vertical crease near the right margin.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $70 - $110; Graded (3.0): $120 - $150
Recent Sales
Recent sales for mid-low grade raw copies (2.5 - 4.0) range from $65 to $130 depending on eye appeal. High-grade (9.0+) copies fetch over $1,000.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading in current condition. The cost of grading would likely equal or exceed the value added. A professional press might improve it slightly, but the deep color-breaking creases are permanent.
Notable Features
Bronze Age Key. First issue of the first Defenders series. Features Hulk, Doctor Strange, and Sub-Mariner. Silver Star logo.
Authentication Notes
Authenticious 20-cent Marvel cover price with the correct '02152' code. Age-appropriate tanning on edges and correct paper stock for 1972 Marvel publications.