Eastman and Laird's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #Book 2
Mirage Studios • Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Volume 1)
Writer
Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird
Interior Artist
Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird
Cover Artist
Richard Corben
Publication Date
October 1984
Cover Variant
Regular
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
This issue features the first appearance of the Mousers, Baxter Stockman, and April O'Neil. The story follows the Turtles as they discover the source of robotic attacks in the city and save April O'Neil from Stockman's workshop.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine/Near Mint (CGC 9.0)
Condition Details
Visible minor spine ticks and slight corner softening on the top left. The cover retains high gloss and vibrant colors, but has minor handling wear typical of its age. Bagged/boarded and appears relatively flat with no significant color-breaking creases visible.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $180 - $250; Graded (9.0): $350 - $450; Graded (9.8): $1,200 - $1,500
Recent Sales
CGC 9.8 copies have recently sold between $1,300 and $1,600. Mid-grade 7.0-8.0 copies generally trade between $120 and $190. High-grade raw copies frequently sell for over $200.
Grading Recommendation
Worth grading if it can achieve a 9.0 or higher. Given the scarcity of high-grade copper age keys, a professional clean and press is recommended to address minor spine/handling issues before submission to CGC.
Notable Features
Major Key Issue: First appearance of April O'Neil and Baxter Stockman. Iconic Richard Corben cover art. First Printing (indicated by the $1.50 cover price and the presence of the Richard Corben art).
Authentication Notes
Authentic First Printing. The $1.50 cover price and the specific Corben wrap-around cover art distinguish this from later printings which changed cover art or increased prices. Ink density and paper stock are consistent with Mirage Studios early production standards.