Challenge! ##4
DC Comics • DC Challenge (12-Part Maxi-Series)
Writer
Paul Levitz
Interior Artist
Gil Kane and Klaus Janson
Cover Artist
Gil Kane
Publication Date
February 1986
Cover Variant
Regular/Direct Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Chapter Four of DC's experimental 12-issue series where each issue is written and drawn by a different creative team, picking up where the previous cliffhanger left off. This issue features Superman, Martian Manhunter, Aquaman, Zatanna, and Detective Chimp. Characters face reality-warping threats across the planet.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine/Very Fine (CGC 7.0)
Condition Details
Moderate spine stress with some white showing. Small corner blunting on the bottom right. Slight color-break crease near the top left corner. Minor surface wear and some shelf wear visible along the edges.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $2.00 - $5.00; Graded (9.8): $30.00 - $45.00
Recent Sales
Recent individual raw copies often sell for under $5 in mid-to-high grade; partial and full sets of the 12-issue run typically sell for $15 to $25.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of the grading service exceeds the market value of the book in this condition. Professional cleaning and pressing would improve aesthetics but likely won't make it a investment-grade candidate.
Notable Features
Unique 'exquisite corpse' style of storytelling where teams were not told the solution to the mystery. Features a diverse cast of Justice League members and deep-cut DC characters like Detective Chimp. Direct Edition with no UPC barcode.
Authentication Notes
Appears to be an authentic 1980s direct-market copy. The paper quality exhibits the expected slight off-white aging consistent with Baxter or standard comic stock of that era. Staples appear original and centered.