Star Wars ##33
Marvel Comics • Star Wars (1977 Series)
Writer
Archie Goodwin
Interior Artist
Carmine Infantino
Cover Artist
Carmine Infantino & Bob Wiacek
Publication Date
March 1980
Cover Variant
Newsstand Edition (with UPC barcode)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Story titled 'Saber Clash!'. Luke Skywalker visits the casino planet Omega and engages in a lightsaber duel with Baron Orman Tagge. Significant for the ongoing Tagge family subplot during the early Marvel run.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine (CGC 6.0)
Condition Details
Visible spine stress marks (some breaking color), blunted corners at bottom left and top right, edge wear along the right side, and surface wear visible on the black star field. Slight accumulation of dirt/soiling at the top edge.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $10 - $20 / Graded (CGC 9.8 equivalent): $120 - $150
Recent Sales
Raw copies in similar mid-grade (VG/FN) typically sell for $8-$15. Recent CGC 9.8 copies have trended around $140.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. In mid-grade (approx. 6.0), the cost of grading fees and shipping would likely exceed the actual market value of the book. Consider grading only if it were in near-perfect (9.6+) condition.
Notable Features
Features a 'Saber Clash' cover art by Carmine Infantino. Notable for the UPC barcode indicating a Newsstand Edition, which is common for this era but preferred by some collectors over Direct Editions.
Authentication Notes
Appears authentic. Features standard 1980 Marvel newsprint stock, correct 40-cent price point for the date, and appropriate ink saturation for the period.