Why this one matters
Spawn #1 sold in the region of 1.7 million copies. That number is the whole story, and it is why this page exists: it is one of the most frequently asked about comics in Britain and one of the most frequently disappointing answers.
It matters historically. Image Comics changed the industry, and this was the flagship. But historical importance and scarcity are different things, and only one of them sets the price.
What catches people out
- Almost everyone kept it in good condition, because everyone bought it as an investment. That is precisely why the investment did not work.
- High grade certified copies are the exception. Because so many exist, only genuinely top grade slabs command a real premium, and getting there is difficult with 1990s production quality.
- Do not confuse it with the McFarlane Spider-Man #1 from 1990, which has exactly the same problem for exactly the same reason.
The honest verdict
Honestly? Usually worth a few pounds. If yours is exceptionally sharp it is worth having assessed, but I would rather tell you that now than have you drive somewhere hoping.
How to check yours
Search the exact issue on eBay and filter to sold listings rather than asking prices. An item sat unsold at a high price tells you what somebody hoped for, not what anybody paid. Match the printing, and be honest with yourself about condition, because it usually matters more than people expect.
If you would rather not work it out yourself, send me photos and I will tell you what you have and what it is realistically worth, for free and with no obligation to sell me anything.
Want it valued properly?
Photos of the cover, the spine and the indicia are enough. You will get an honest answer either way, including if the answer is that it is not worth much.
Get a free valuation