The Mask ##1
Dark Horse Comics • The Mask (Four-Issue Limited Series)
Writer
John Arcudi
Interior Artist
Doug Mahnke
Cover Artist
Doug Mahnke
Publication Date
July 1991
Cover Variant
Regular/A Cover
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
The first issue of the seminal 1991 limited series. It follows Stanley Ipkiss, a mild-mannered man who finds a magical mask that transforms him into a chaotic, ultra-violent anti-hero. Note: This series is much darker than the 1994 Jim Carrey film adaptation.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine/Very Fine (CGC 7.0 - 7.5)
Condition Details
Visible color-breaking spine stress/ticks along the left edge. Minor blunting on the upper left and lower left corners. Superficial scuffing on the white background and slight yellowing/aging of the paper stock. Light edge wear on the top margin.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $30.00 - $50.00; Graded CGC 7.5: $80.00 - $110.00; Graded CGC 9.8 (high-end): $450.00+
Recent Sales
Raw copies in similar mid-to-high grade condition have recently sold between $35 and $55. CGC 9.8 copies have seen a price surge reaching $500 depending on auction timing.
Grading Recommendation
Optional. Due to the white cover, flaws like spine ticks are very apparent. Unless a professional cleaning and pressing can elevate this to a 9.0+, the cost of grading may outweigh the value increase. Recommended only if personal collection preservation is the goal.
Notable Features
First issue of the first 'The Mask' solo limited series. Key issue for fans of the franchise. Features the iconic Doug Mahnke 'Pie' cover.
Authentication Notes
First printing confirmed by the lack of later printing notations in the indica. The cover shows authentic gloss and ink density typical for early 90s Dark Horse paper stock. No signs of restoration visible.