Spawn ##1 (Variant/Special Edition)
Image Comics • Spawn Vol. 1
Writer
Todd McFarlane
Interior Artist
Todd McFarlane
Cover Artist
Todd McFarlane
Publication Date
Original Publication May 1992 (Edition dated 1997/1998)
Cover Variant
Special Edition / Diamond Comic Distributors Variant (No price/No UPC)
Printing
Special Edition Reprint
Comic Description
The origin of Spawn (Al Simmons). After being murdered by his own team, Al 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. Includes the first appearances of Spawn, Malebolgia, and Sam and Twitch.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine/Near Mint (CGC 9.0)
Condition Details
Minor spine stress visible along the left edge. The bottom left corner shows slight rounding/blunting. Some light reflections on the bag make surface assessment difficult, but edges appear relatively crisp with minor shelf wear on the bottom edge.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $30 - $50; Graded (CGC 9.8): $150 - $225
Recent Sales
Recent sales for the Special Edition variant range from $25 for mid-grade raw copies to over $200 for 9.8 certified copies. It is less common than the standard #1 with the 1.95 price point.
Grading Recommendation
Worth grading only if the comic is pressed and cleaned to achieve a guaranteed 9.8. Mid-grade copies (9.0-9.4) of this variant generally do not command enough of a premium to cover grading fees plus shipping.
Notable Features
First appearance of Spawn. This specific version is the 'Special Edition' which lacks the price and barcode on the front cover, originally distributed as a promotional item or through specific retail partnerships. It features a simplified cover design focusing on McFarlane’s artwork.
Authentication Notes
The cover gloss and the deep burgundy background color appear consistent with legitimate 1990s Image printing. The font used for 'Todd McFarlane' at the bottom is the correct stylized typeface for this specific variant.