Tales of the Teen Titans ##44
DC Comics • Tales of the Teen Titans (1984)
Writer
Marv Wolfman
Interior Artist
George Pérez
Cover Artist
George Pérez
Publication Date
July 1984
Cover Variant
Newsstand Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Book 3 of 'The Judas Contract' storyline. This is a massive key issue featuring the first appearance of Dick Grayson as Nightwing (identity change from Robin). It also features the origin of Deathstroke the Terminator and the first appearance of Jericho (Joseph Wilson).
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine+ (CGC 6.5)
Condition Details
Visible spine stress marks (spine ticks) that break color, specifically along the left edge. Moderate corner blunting on the bottom right and top left. Visible surface wear/scuffing on the black background areas and slight edge wear. Small color-breaking crease near the bottom left corner.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $60 - $85 | Graded (CGC 6.5): $90 - $110
Recent Sales
Recent raw copies in Mid-High Grade have sold for $75-$100. Graded 9.8 copies routinely sell for over $600 due to the high historical significance of this issue.
Grading Recommendation
While a key issue, a grade of 6.5 may not provide a significant ROI after grading fees. However, if a professional press and clean could bump this to a Very Fine (8.0+), it would be worth it for preservation and value. Current state recommendation: Keep raw and protect.
Notable Features
First appearance of Nightwing (Dick Grayson). First appearance of Jericho. Origin of Deathstroke. Newsstand edition (identified by the barcode in the lower left corner). Iconic George Pérez cover.
Authentication Notes
The item appears to be an authentic 1984 direct-to-newsstand copy. Gloss levels are consistent with mid-80s copper age DC stock. Staple placement is correct for this era's production and the barcode matches the UPC for the newsstand distribution.