Star Wars ##39
Marvel Comics Group • Star Wars Vol. 1 (1977)
Writer
Archie Goodwin
Interior Artist
Al Williamson
Cover Artist
Al Williamson
Publication Date
September 1980
Cover Variant
Newsstand Edition (with UPC)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
First issue of The Empire Strikes Back movie adaptation. Features the beginning of the Hoth arc, Luke Skywalker's encounter with the Wampa, and the Force ghost of Obi-Wan Kenobi. Darth Vader is prominently featured on the cover.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine/Very Fine (CGC 7.0)
Condition Details
Visible color-breaking spine stress/ticks (4-5 along left edge), blunting and color loss on the bottom-right corner, minor top edge wear, surface scuffing on the black ink areas, and slight spine roll.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $15 - $25; Graded (CGC 7.0): $55 - $75
Recent Sales
Recent eBay sales for raw copies range from $12 to $30 depending on spine freshness. CGC 9.8 copies have reached $450+, but mid-grade copies remain affordable.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading in current condition. The cost of grading ($40+) exceeds the current market value of a mid-grade raw copy. Only worth grading if reaching 9.4 or higher.
Notable Features
Part 1 of the official adaptation of Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back. Features an iconic Darth Vader cover by Al Williamson. Newsstand UPC version.
Authentication Notes
Authentic 1980 Marvel publication. Contains correct trade dress, 50-cent price point, and appropriate age-related toning visible on the inner paper edges through the bag.