Action Comics ##544
DC Comics • Action Comics Vol. 1
Writer
Cary Bates and Marv Wolfman
Interior Artist
Curt Swan, Murphy Anderson, and Gil Kane
Cover Artist
Gil Kane
Publication Date
June 1983
Cover Variant
Regular (Direct Edition)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
45th Anniversary issue. Contains two significant stories: 'Luthor Unleashed' and 'Rebirth!'. It features the debut of Lex Luthor's iconic green and purple warsuit and a major redesign of Brainiac into his skeletal, robotic 'Terminator' form.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine (CGC 6.0) to Fine/Very Fine (CGC 7.0)
Condition Details
Visible moderate spine stress and color-breaking ticks along the left edge. Minor corner blunting on the bottom right. Some edge wear and shelf wear visible on the yellow background. Plastic bagging makes further assessment of surface gloss difficult, but the cover shows some slight yellowing/tanning consistent with age.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $15 - $25; Graded (CGC 9.4+): $80 - $120+
Recent Sales
Recent raw copies in Mid-High grade sell between $12-$30. CGC 9.6 copies have recently sold for approximately $100-$130.
Grading Recommendation
Generally only worth grading if it is in Near Mint (9.4+) condition or higher. This copy appears to be in the 6.0-7.0 range, making professional grading costs exceed the immediate value increase unless it has sentimental value.
Notable Features
Major Bronze Age Key issue. First appearance of Lex Luthor's Warsuit. First appearance of the robotic Brainiac design. 45th Anniversary Special edition with increased page count.
Authentication Notes
The logo, DC bullet, and price box ($1.50) are consistent with the 1983 direct market edition. The barcode area contains a specific logo/striking rather than a UPC, confirming it as a Direct Edition copy. No signs of restoration visible.