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Return of the Living Dead #1 (Mark Spears Painted Cover A, NM/NM-)
Return of the Living Dead #1 (Mark Spears Painted Cover A, NM/NM-)
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Written by S.A. Check and James Kuhoric, with art by Andrea Arcari, this issue, released January 1, 2025, delivers a sequel story to the iconic movie. Set in the 1980s, it follows party-hungry skateboarders and summer interns trapped overnight in an amusement park, where misplaced barrels of Trioxin-245 unleash a zombie horde. Key characters include the teens, with appearances by classic ROTLD-style zombies like Tarman and new undead threats. The story captures the film’s irreverent tone, gore, and humor, introducing a new cast to the zombie apocalypse. Mark Spears’ Painted Cover A, depicting a vivid zombie scene, amplifies its collectible allure.
The Mark Spears Painted Cover A, retailing at $4.99, commands $10–$30 in NM+ condition on eBay, driven by Spears’ popularity (Mark Spears Monsters) and the issue’s rapid sell-out. CGC 9.8 graded copies fetch $50–$100, with the ultra-rare “More Brains” edition (250 serialized copies) selling for $50–$150 NM. By comparison, the Roy Alan Martinez Cover C sells for $5–$15 NM, and the Paul Maitland More Brains Variant ranges from $20–$50 NM. The Cover A’s value reflects its scarcity, with some retailers like TFAW offering it at a 10% discount pre-release. Low print runs from American Mythology fuel its demand.
The Return of the Living Dead franchise’s cult status, paired with Spears’ rising star and small-press scarcity, positions this issue for growth. Key indie debuts often appreciate 50–100% within 1–3 years, as seen with Something Is Killing the Children #1 ($50–$200 NM). By 2027, NM+ copies could reach $30–$60, and CGC 9.8 copies may hit $100–$200, especially with horror buzz from X-Men ’97 Season 2 (2025) or potential ROTLD media revivals. Grading delays (ongoing into mid-2025) and limited supply may further boost prices. The issue’s nostalgic tie to the 1985 film ensures long-term demand.
The Return of the Living Dead #1 Mark Spears Painted Cover A in NM+ blends affordability, artistic prestige, and nostalgic horror-comedy. Spears’ vibrant cover and the issue’s bold sequel to the cult classic make it a collector’s prize. Ideal for fans seeking a key indie debut or investors eyeing the zombie genre’s resurgence, this comic offers strong upside. Secure it now to capitalize on the ROTLD legacy and Spears’ collectible allure!
