Black Lightning ##9
DC Comics • Black Lightning Vol. 1
Writer
Tony Isabella
Interior Artist
Trevor Von Eeden
Cover Artist
Rich Buckler and Vince Colletta
Publication Date
May 1978
Cover Variant
UK Price Variant (12p)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Story titled 'The 100 Deaths of Black Lightning!'. Black Lightning (Jefferson Pierce) continues his battle against the criminal organization known as The 100 in Metropolis' Suicide Slum. Features an appearance by Syonide.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine/Very Fine (CGC 7.0)
Condition Details
Visible moderate spine stress with color-breaking ticks, slight corner blunting at bottom left and top right, minor surface wear on the black ink areas, and slight edge wear along the right-hand side.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $15 - $25; Graded (CGC 7.0): $55 - $80. Note: UK Price variants often carry a small premium for specific collectors but can have lower liquidity.
Recent Sales
Recent sales for mid-to-high grade raw copies range from $10 to $20 for US cents versions; UK variants typically sell at parity or slightly higher to specialized collectors.
Grading Recommendation
Not highly recommended for professional grading unless for personal collection preservation. The cost of grading (approx $35+) plus shipping often exceeds the value increase for this specific issue and grade.
Notable Features
Bronze Age key series. This copy is a UK Price Variant, distinguished by the '12p' price marking instead of US cents. Features the iconic 'Bullet' DC logo and includes a UPC barcode (Direct edition was not standard in 1978).
Authentication Notes
The comic appears authentic based on the age-appropriate paper oxidation visible on the edges and the specific 12p UK price stamp which matches DC's 1978 distribution patterns for the overseas market.