Spawn ##1
Image Comics • Spawn Vol. 1
Writer
Todd McFarlane
Interior Artist
Todd McFarlane
Cover Artist
Todd McFarlane
Publication Date
May 1992
Cover Variant
Direct Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
The origin and first appearance of Al Simmons as Spawn. After being murdered by his employer, Simmons makes a deal with the demon Malebolgia to return to Earth to see his wife, only to find himself transformed into a Hellspawn five years later.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine/Near Mint (CGC 9.0)
Condition Details
Visible color-breaking spine ticks, slight blunting on the bottom right corner, and minor surface wear/scuffing along the spine edge. A small amount of top edge wear is visible through the bag.
Estimated Market Value
$40 - $70 (Raw); $150 - $180 (CGC 9.8)
Recent Sales
Raw copies in similar mid-to-high grade sell frequently for $50; CGC 9.8 copies consistently fetch $160+ due to the high print run necessitating high grade for value.
Grading Recommendation
Worth grading only if a potential 9.8 is expected after a press. In current visible state (approx. 9.0-9.2), professional grading costs may outweigh the value added.
Notable Features
First appearance of Spawn (Al Simmons), Malebolgia, Wanda Blake, and Jason Wynn. Iconic cover art by Todd McFarlane. High print run (approx. 1.7 million copies).
Authentication Notes
Authentic first printing. Checks out against known indicators: correct $1.95 price point for US, proper logo registration, and appropriate 1992-era glossy cover stock.