Secret Origins of Super-Heroes ##17 (DC Special Series)
DC Comics • DC Special Series Vol. 1
Writer
Paul Levitz, Gerry Conway, Denny O'Neil
Interior Artist
Joe Staton, Mike Vosburg, Murphy Anderson
Cover Artist
Dick Giordano
Publication Date
Summer 1978
Cover Variant
Regular/Newsstand Edition (UPC barcode present)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
An anthology issue detailing the 'revealed at last' origins of several major characters. Includes the origin of the Golden Age Doctor Fate, Lightray of the New Gods, and the training of Black Canary. This issue is part of the DC Special Series dollar-book format.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine (CGC 6.0)
Condition Details
Visible color-breaking spine stress, corner blunting on the bottom right/left, minor yellowing/edge wear on the back cover visible through the plastic, and a price sticker affixed to the front cover which may cause residue or tearing upon removal.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $20 - $35; Graded (9.0+): $100 - $180
Recent Sales
Raw copies in similar mid-grade condition have recently sold between $15 and $30. High-grade CGC 9.6 copies vary between $150 and $200.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading in current condition. The presence of the price sticker and visible spine wear would limit the grade below the 9.0 threshold needed to make the grading fees profitable for this specific issue.
Notable Features
Features a key Golden Age origin for Doctor Fate (Kent Nelson). Notable for being a 'Dollar Comic' giant-sized issue from the late 1970s. Contains contributions from legendary artists Murphy Anderson and Dick Giordano.
Authentication Notes
The comic appears authentic based on the age-appropriate paper oxidation (yellowing), standard Newsstand UPC placement of the era, and the '60c' price point which is correct for this oversized DC Special Series issue.