Crucible ##4
Impact Comics (DC Comics imprint) • The Crucible
Writer
Brian Augustyn and Mark Waid
Interior Artist
Joe Quesada and Chuck Wojtkiewicz
Cover Artist
Joe Quesada and Jimmy Palmiotti
Publication Date
May 1993
Cover Variant
Regular Edition (Direct Sales)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Part of the 'Crucible' mini-series which attempted to revitalize various Archie/MLJ characters under the DC Impact imprint. This issue features The Shield, The Black Hood, and The Comet facing off against powerful robotic adversaries and the villainous American Crusader.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine/Very Fine (7.0)
Condition Details
Visible minor spine stress with color breaks, slight corner blunting on the top right, and potential light surface scratching or dullness on the cover gloss. Edges show minor wear, particularly at the bottom.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $1.00 - $3.00; Graded: $25.00 - $40.00 (though rarely graded due to low demand)
Recent Sales
Often sold in bulk lots or dollar bins. Occasional single sales on eBay range from $0.99 to $4.00 for high-grade raw copies.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of the grading service (approx. $25-$40) significantly exceeds the fair market value of the comic. Best kept in a bag and board for personal collection.
Notable Features
Features early art by Joe Quesada (future Marvel Editor-in-Chief). Includes DC Comics UPC 'Direct Sales' barcode.
Authentication Notes
Authentic 1990s newsprint/glossy cover stock. No known counterfeits exist for this title due to low market value.