Punisher War Journal #5 CGC 9.6 — Marvel Comics (April 1989) White Pages — Jim Lee Art

Punisher War Journal #5 — CGC Graded 9.6 (Near Mint+)

Publisher: Marvel Comics
Issue: #5
Cover Date: April 1989
CGC Certification #: 0153229025
CGC Grade: 9.6 (Near Mint+) — Universal Grade
Page Quality: White Pages
Cover Price: $1.50 US / $2.00 CAN / UK 50p
Slab Condition: Excellent — no cracks or yellowing noted

Creative Team

• Story: Carl Potts
• Art: Jim Lee & Scott Williams

Cover & Story Details

The bold yellow cover features the tagline "...To the Death!" with a dramatic close-quarters combat scene — the Punisher in full tactical gear delivering a brutal strike. The stark yellow-and-red color scheme is instantly eye-catching and quintessentially late-80s Marvel. The Punisher corner box art reinforces the character's iconic skull motif.

Why This Issue Matters — Jim Lee Early Work

This issue features interior art by Jim Lee — one of the most celebrated and collectible artists in comic book history. Lee's work on Punisher War Journal in 1988–89 predates his legendary runs on Uncanny X-Men and WildC.A.T.s, making these early issues highly sought after by Jim Lee collectors. Inked by Scott Williams, Lee's longtime collaborator, the art team here is the same pairing that would go on to define an era of Marvel Comics.

Back Cover Highlight

Features a full-color house ad for The Sensational She-Hulk by John Byrne & Bob Wiacek — a fun, era-authentic back cover that adds to the collectibility and nostalgia of this slab.

Condition & Grading

Graded and encapsulated by CGC (Certified Guaranty Company), the industry's leading comic book grading authority. A 9.6 (Near Mint+) represents an exceptional copy with only the most minor imperfections. Verify authenticity at cgccomics.com using cert # 0153229025.

Shipping

Shipped securely in a padded, rigid mailer designed specifically for CGC slabs. Fully insured and tracked. Ships within 1–2 business days of payment.