Johnny the Homicidal Maniac ##1
Slave Labor Graphics • Johnny the Homicidal Maniac
Writer
Jhonen Vasquez
Interior Artist
Jhonen Vasquez
Cover Artist
Jhonen Vasquez
Publication Date
August 1995 (Estimated for 1st Printing)
Cover Variant
Regular (Direct Edition)
Printing
First Printing (Confirmed by the $2.95 US / $3.95 CAN price point)
Comic Description
The cult-classic debut of Johnny (Nny), a mentally unstable serial killer who must keep one wall of his house wet with fresh blood to prevent a monster from escaping. Featuring Squee and various psychological manifestations like Psycho-Doughboy and Mr. Fuck-Up.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good (CGC 4.0)
Condition Details
Significant spine stress, color-breaking creases along the spine, rounded corners, and visible edge wear. There is a large black marker signature/writing on the right hand side which, unless authenticated as the creator's signature, is considered cover graffiti. Overall surface scuffing and dullness are present.
Estimated Market Value
$150 - $250 (Raw/Ungraded). If signature is authenticated by CBCS, value could exceed $400. High-grade 9.8 copies can fetch $1,500+.
Recent Sales
1st Print copies in mid-grade typically sell for $200-$300. Recent high-grade 9.2-9.6 sales have reached $600-$900. 1st prints are significantly more valuable than the 20+ later reprints.
Grading Recommendation
Worth grading via CBCS Verified Signature Program if the signature is believed to be Jhonen Vasquez. In its current physical condition, it would likely receive a Qualified (Green) label from CGC due to the signature, or a 'Verified' Yellow label from CBCS. The physical grade is low (mid-grade), but the rarity of the 1st print justifies the cost of slabbing.
Notable Features
First appearance of Johnny (Nny), Squee, and the Wall. Rare 1st printing distinguished by the $2.95 cover price and specific Slave Labor Graphics logo style. This is one of the most significant underground/independent comics of the 1990s.
Authentication Notes
The signature 'JHONEN' on the right side appears consistent with Jhonen Vasquez's earlier signing style, though it is quite large. Ink saturation on the cover matches known 1st printings which had a slightly more matte finish compared to later high-gloss reprints. Check interior indicia for 'First Printing' confirmation.