Captain America ##398
Marvel Comics • Captain America Vol. 1
Writer
Mark Gruenwald
Interior Artist
Rik Levins
Cover Artist
Rik Levins and Danny Bulanadi
Publication Date
March 1992
Cover Variant
Newsstand Edition (UPC Barcode)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Part 1 of the 'Operation: Galactic Storm' crossover event where the Avengers become involved in an intergalactic war between the Kree and Shi'ar empires. Captain America battles the villain Shatterax.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good (CGC 4.0)
Condition Details
Moderate spine stress/wear, visible corner blunting. Significant price tag/sticker residue in several locations on upper right cover. Small diagonal crease bottom right corner. Possible tanning visible on the cover paper stock. Surface wear and scuffing visible under lighting.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $3 - $7. Graded 9.8: $40 - $60.
Recent Sales
Raw copies typically sell for original cover price or slightly above in dollar bins. High-grade (CGC 9.8) newsstand copies have sold for approximately $50 due to the 'Galactic Storm' cross-over appeal.
Grading Recommendation
Not worth professional grading. The cost of shipping and grading fees far exceeds the market value of the comic in this condition. A professional press could remove the sticker residue, but it would not likely elevate the grade enough to justify the cost.
Notable Features
First appearance of Shatterax (Kree warrior). Part 1 of the Galactic Storm saga. Newsstand edition barcode. Includes 'Galactic Storm' banner at the top of the cover.
Authentication Notes
The comic appears authentic based on the standard period-accurate paper stock, ink saturation, and the presence of the 1992-era UPC and Marvel logo styles.