Introduction
The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT) franchise has been a household name for over three decades now, with numerous comic book series, movies, cartoons, and merchandise. However, not many people know about the origins of the TMNT comics and the significance of the first print of the first issue. In this article, we will delve into the history of the first print Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and why it is so valuable to collectors.
The Beginning of TMNT
In 1984, two comic book creators, Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird, were brainstorming ideas for a new comic book series. They were inspired by Frank Miller's "Ronin" and the "New Mutants" comic book series. They decided to create a parody of both, featuring humanoid turtles with ninja skills. The idea caught on, and the first issue of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles was born.
The First Print
The first print of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles was released in May 1984, with a print run of 3,000 copies. The cover had a black and white illustration of the four turtles, with the title in red letters at the top. The first print also had a mistake on the back cover, where the word "sensei" was misspelled as "sansei." This mistake was corrected in later prints, making the first print even more valuable to collectors.
The Significance of the First Print
The first print of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles is significant not only because it was the birth of the franchise but also because it was a small print run. Only 3,000 copies were printed, making it a rare find for collectors. Additionally, the first print had the misspelling on the back cover, making it even more valuable. The first print is considered a holy grail among TMNT comic book collectors.
The Value of the First Print
The value of the first print of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles has increased significantly over the years. In 2019, a copy of the first print in near-mint condition sold for $90,000. This is a significant increase from its original price of $1.50 back in 1984. The value of the first print is expected to continue to rise as more collectors seek to add it to their collection.
Conclusion
The first print of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles is a significant piece of comic book history. It was the birth of a franchise that has lasted for over three decades and has become a pop culture phenomenon. The first print is a rare find for collectors, and its value continues to increase. If you happen to come across a copy of the first print, hold on to it tightly, as it is a true gem in the world of comic book collecting.