1 years ago
Key Fact
Historical significance
This issue of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT) is particularly significant as it was part of the original comic run created by Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird. Released in 1990, it was a time when the franchise was transitioning from a cult comic series to a mainstream phenomenon, thanks to the animated series that premiered around the same time. This issue features Donatello, one of the four iconic turtles, known for his intelligence and technological prowess, capturing the essence of the character during an era of rapid franchise expansion.
Artistic impact
The artwork in this comic is a classic example of Eastman's distinctive style, which blends dynamic action with a gritty aesthetic. It reflects the edgy vibe of the early TMNT comics, differing significantly from the more sanitized versions seen in later adaptations. The cover's vibrant colors and expressive characters marked a pivotal moment in comic book art, influencing many artists who followed.
Cultural relevance
The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles became a cultural phenomenon in the late 80s and early 90s, symbolizing a unique blend of humor, action, and camaraderie. This issue encapsulates the spirit of that era, where comics were not just for children but became part of a broader popular culture, influencing toys, video games, and animated series.
Value Fact
The value of this comic is significantly influenced by its historical importance in the TMNT franchise, its condition, and the popularity of Donatello as a character. Comics from the original run, especially in good condition, can command high prices among collectors. Additionally, the nostalgia factor plays a huge role, as many collectors grew up with the TMNT series, making them willing to pay a premium for original issues.

In the galleries
Item Details
Official Details
Variation Details
Jericho Details
Collectibles.com is operated by Collectbase Inc., a Delaware corporation. Collectible valuations, price estimates, and AI-assisted identifications are provided for informational and reference purposes only and do not constitute professional appraisals, financial advice, or guarantees of market value. Trademarks, card images, and intellectual property belonging to third-party rights holders are displayed solely for identification, valuation reference, and collection management purposes; Collectbase Inc. is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any such rights holders. User-generated content reflects the views of individual community members and not those of Collectbase Inc. This platform may earn affiliate commissions on qualifying purchases made through third-party links. The platform is provided "as is" without warranties of any kind, and Collectbase Inc. shall not be liable for any damages arising from use of this platform or reliance on its content. For full details governing your use of this platform and our privacy practices, see our Terms of Service and PrivacyPolicy.
© 2026 Collectbase Inc. All rights reserved.
This site and associated apps contain copyrighted material including card images, trademarks, and text belonging to The Pokémon Company International, Nintendo, GAME FREAK inc., Wizards of the Coast, Major League Baseball Properties, Inc., NBA Properties, Inc., NFL Properties LLC, NHL Enterprises, L.P., Topps, Panini America, Inc., Upper Deck, and all other respective rights holders. Such material is displayed solely for the purposes of identification, pricing reference, collection management, and to facilitate the buying, selling, and trading of physical collectibles by collectors. Collectbase Inc. is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any of the foregoing entities, and no challenge to their intellectual property rights or ownership is intended or implied.