Star Wars ##20
Marvel Comics • Star Wars Vol. 1 (1977)
Writer
Archie Goodwin
Interior Artist
Carmine Infantino; Gene Day
Cover Artist
Carmine Infantino and Terry Austin
Publication Date
February 1979
Cover Variant
Direct Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Deathgame! Han Solo and Chewbacca end up on the planet Orvax where Solo is forced into an arena combat situation against a massive four-armed gladiator. This issue continues the early expanded universe adventures outside of the film adaptations.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine (CGC 8.0)
Condition Details
Light spine stress marks, minor corner blunting on top right and bottom left, slight edge wear along the top, and minor surface scuffing visible on the dark areas of the cover. Appears relatively flat with good color vibrancy.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $20 - $35; Graded (CGC 8.0): $60 - $85
Recent Sales
Recent sales of raw copies in similar condition fluctuate between $25 and $40. CGC 9.8 copies can command upwards of $250+, but mid-to-high grades like 8.0 remain affordable.
Grading Recommendation
Likely not worth professional grading unless the collector desires it for preservation. The 8.0 grade estimate suggests the cost of grading plus shipping would nearly equal the market value. A clean and press might push it to an 8.5/9.0, but it is not a high-value key issue.
Notable Features
Features Han Solo, Chewbacca, C-3PO, and R2-D2. Notable for its Carmine Infantino artwork and 'Still Only 35c' price header. This is a Direct Edition as indicated by the simple barcode.
Authentication Notes
Authentic mid-range Marvel Bronze Age book. Correct paper stock, period-accurate UPC barcode layout for late 70s direct market distribution, and appropriate ink saturation for the period.