The Walking Dead #1 — CGC Universal Grade 9.8 (Rare Black "Mature Readers")

Secure the ultimate modern holy grail with this scarce, highly coveted Black "Mature Readers" Variant of The Walking Dead #1, professionally certified and encapsulated by CGC as 9.8 Near Mint/Mint. Written by Robert Kirkman with iconic interior art and covers by Tony Moore, this milestone 2003 issue marks the historic first appearance of Rick Grimes, Shane Walsh, Morgan Jones, and Duane Jones.

The Black "Mature Readers" Variant (The True First State):

Unlike the more common white-text version, this copy features the rare black "Mature Readers" text on the cover. During the initial press run, the printer realized the black text was difficult to read against the dark background and stopped the presses to switch the plate to white text. Estimated to comprise roughly only 10% of the total print run, this initial "first state" printing is significantly scarcer and commands a major premium among elite collectors over the standard white variant.

Product Highlights:

 Rare Black Label Variant: Features the scarce black "Mature Readers" cover text from the initial press run before plates were changed to white.

Key Milestone Issue: The legendary first issue of Robert Kirkman's apocalyptic masterwork that launched a global pop-culture franchise.

 First Appearances: Features the debut of core characters including Rick Grimes, Shane Walsh, Morgan Jones, and Duane Jones.

 Top-Tier Certification: Graded 9.8 (NM/MT) by CGC (Certified Guaranty Company).

 Secure Holder: Encapsulated in a tamper-evident CGC universal slab with certification number 1174295001.

Item Specifications:

 Publisher: Image Comics

 Release Date: 10/03 (October 2003)

 Issue: #1 (Rare Black Label "Mature Readers" Variant)

 Creative Team: Robert Kirkman (Story), Tony Moore (Art & Cover)

 Grade: CGC 9.8

 Certification Number: 1174295001