Mirage Studios. This is an original first printing of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1, which features the origin and first appearances of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Splinter and Shredder. Wraparound cover. Ninja Turtles creators Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird authenticated autographs on interior front cover. Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird story and art. Kevin Eastman cover. White pages. This copy was obtained directly from Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles co-creator Peter Laird as detailed in Laird's letter, see lot #8.

Speaking on the importance of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Hake's Senior Consignment Manager Mike Bollinger had the following to say: "When considering longevity and pure impact on the cultural consciousness, the Ninja Turtles are easily the most successful of the bevy of independent comic books to emerge from the 1980s. As the Copper Age of comics dawned, creators embraced new ideas while at the same time paying homage to what came before. Such was the case with Eastman and Laird, who parodied popular tropes in superhero comics of the time, such as teenage heroes like the New Teen Titans and the New Mutants as well as the trendy presence of ninjas in titles like Daredevil and Frank Miller's Ronin. While at first glance it might seem a little whacky, the concept captivated readers - Lawrence Klein amongst them - and the initial print run of 3,000 copies sold out within weeks, necessitating additional printings."

"That first print run of comics has become one of the most sought-after comics of the '80s," notes Hake's General Manager Kelly McClain. "Comics in the '80s weren't treated as potential investments like they are today, especially black and white indie books. Having a true first print survive in this high grade is remarkable and they do not often pop up for sale at auction. We're very excited to present this piece of Turtles history to collectors."

"As of right now, there are no higher graded examples of a first print Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1. Add to that the fact that this is the single highest graded example with JSA authenticated signatures of both Turtles creators, makes this as good as it gets." stated Bollinger.

"The Lawrence Klein Collection features a multitude of treasures, this being one of the crowning gems." said McClain. "We had this book on display at San Diego Comic-Con back in July and needless to say, it made many people do double-takes and generated a lot of buzz. Comic collectors and Turtles fans alike are chomping at the bit to take their chance at adding this '80s icon to their collection. You're not likely to see a better example of this Copper Age key come up."

Lawrence Klein Collection.

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