The Mighty Thor ##390
Marvel Comics • Thor Vol. 1
Writer
Tom DeFalco
Interior Artist
Ron Frenz and Bret Breeding
Cover Artist
Ron Frenz and Bret Breeding
Publication Date
April 1988
Cover Variant
Newsstand Edition (UPC barcode present)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
A landmark key issue in Marvel history. In this story, Steve Rogers (operating as 'The Captain' in the black/red/white suit) lifts Mjolnir, Thor's hammer, to hand it back to Thor during a battle against Grog and the Seth's demons. This proves Steve Rogers' worthiness, a major character beat referenced later in the MCU.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine/Very Fine (CGC 7.0)
Condition Details
Moderate spine stress and color-breaking ticks along the left edge. Visible creasing at the bottom left corner across the barcode. Edge wear and slight blunting on the top and bottom right corners. Minor surface scuffing and tanning on the white cover borders.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $30 - $45; Graded (9.8): $250 - $350; Graded (7.0 as shown): $50 - $65.
Recent Sales
Recent raw newsstand copies in mid-to-high grade sold between $35 and $55 on eBay (late 2023/2024). High-grade 9.8 CGC copies consistently fetch over $300 due to key significance.
Grading Recommendation
Currently not worth professional grading unless it could achieve a 9.6 or higher. The visible corner crease near the barcode and spine ticks likely cap this at a 7.0–7.5. A press and clean might help, but the cost of grading would outweigh the current market value for this specific condition.
Notable Features
First time Steve Rogers (Captain America) lifts Thor's hammer Mjolnir. Newsstand Edition with UPC. Part of the 'The Captain' era of Steve Rogers' history.
Authentication Notes
Authentic 1980s newsstand print. Features correct 75-cent price point for 1988 and appropriate paper oxidation/tanning for the era. Spine ticks and ink density are consistent with copper-age printing methods.