Tales of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #3 CGC 9.4 — Mirage Studios (October 1987) White Pages — Wraparound Cover

Tales of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #3 — CGC Graded 9.4 (Near Mint)

Publisher: Mirage Studios
Issue: #3
Cover Date: October 1987
CGC Certification #: 0157361003
CGC Grade: 9.4 (Near Mint) — Universal Grade
Page Quality: White Pages
Cover Price: $1.50 US / $1.85 CAN
Cover Type: Wraparound Cover
Slab Condition: Excellent — no cracks or yellowing noted

Creative Team

• Story: Kevin Eastman & Peter Laird
• Interior Art: Jim Lawson & Ryan Brown
• Cover Art: Ryan Brown

Cover Details — Wraparound

This issue features a stunning wraparound cover by Ryan Brown — as noted on the CGC label. The front cover depicts Raphael and Michelangelo in fierce combat against a massive blue-furred alien/demon creature wielding a staff, set against a deep red cosmic background. The back cover (visible through the slab) continues the wraparound composition, showing Raphael and another Turtle pressing the attack from the opposite side — a dynamic, action-packed 360° battle scene. Ryan Brown's bold linework and vivid coloring make this one of the most visually striking covers in the early TMNT catalog.

Featured Characters

• Raphael — with sai, prominently featured on both front and back cover
• Michelangelo — with nunchaku
• Alien/Demon Antagonist — large blue-furred creature with staff and horned mask

Why This Issue Is Highly Collectible

Tales of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles was the companion anthology series to the original Eastman & Laird TMNT title, published by Mirage Studios — the independent publisher that launched one of the most successful comic book franchises in history. Early Mirage Studios TMNT books from 1984–1989 are among the most sought-after independent comics of the Copper Age. Issue #3 from 1987 in CGC 9.4 with White Pages is an exceptional find — these books were printed on newsprint in small print runs and rarely survive in high grade. The wraparound cover adds significant visual and collectible appeal.

Series Context

The Tales of the TMNT series (Volume 1, 1987–1989) ran for 7 issues and featured stories by Eastman & Laird alongside emerging talent like Jim Lawson and Ryan Brown, who would go on to become key contributors to the TMNT universe. This series bridges the original TMNT run and the broader Mirage Studios universe, making it essential reading for serious TMNT collectors.

Condition & Grading

Graded and encapsulated by CGC (Certified Guaranty Company), the industry's leading comic book grading authority. A 9.4 (Near Mint) is an exceptional grade for a 1987 independent Mirage Studios book — these were printed in limited quantities on newsprint and are notoriously difficult to find in high grade. White Pages is the best possible page quality designation. Verify authenticity at cgccomics.com using cert # 0157361003.

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.