Strange Tales: Doctor Strange / Nick Fury, Agent of S.H.I.E.L.D. ##158
Marvel Comics • Strange Tales Vol. 1
Writer
Stan Lee / Jim Steranko
Interior Artist
Marie Severin / Jim Steranko
Cover Artist
Marie Severin
Publication Date
July 1967
Cover Variant
Regular/Direct (12-cent cover)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
First of a two-part story featuring Living Tribunal. Dr. Strange battles Umar and travels beyond the realm of reality to face the cosmic entity known as The Living Tribunal, who intends to destroy the Earth. In the backup feature, Nick Fury faces the Yellow Claw.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good (CGC 4.0)
Condition Details
Visible color-breaking creases across the bottom right corner; significant spine stress marks and ticks; edge wear on the left side; blunted corners especially top right; minor surface scuffing on the red field; possible slight yellowing of the paper visible at the edges.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $30 - $55; Graded (CGC 4.0): $75 - $110
Recent Sales
Recent 2024 benchmarks show mid-grade raw copies (4.0-5.0) selling between $45 and $60. High-grade CGC 9.0+ copies reach upwards of $300-$500.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading in current condition. The value increase would likely be offset by grading and shipping fees. Professional pressing might improve it slightly, but the deep creases limit the ceiling.
Notable Features
First full appearance of The Living Tribunal (a major cosmic entity in the Marvel Universe). Cover and interior art by legends Marie Severin and Jim Steranko. Silver Age 12-cent price point.
Authentication Notes
The book appears to be an authentic 1967 Silver Age original. The paper aging, ink saturation characteristic of 1960s letterpress, and staple placement are consistent with Marvel's production of that era.