1st Issue Special ##12
DC Comics • 1st Issue Special Vol. 1
Writer
Gerry Conway
Interior Artist
Mike Vosburg
Cover Artist
Joe Kubert
Publication Date
March 1976
Cover Variant
Regular/Newsstand Edition (with Barcode)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
This issue features the first appearance and origin of Mikaal Tomas, the extraterrestrial Starman. Dispatched to Earth to conquer it, he instead rebels against his people and chooses to protect the planet. This version of Starman eventually became a significant supporting character in the critically acclaimed 1990s James Robinson series.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good (CGC 4.0)
Condition Details
Visible heavy creasing across the entire cover, particularly around the midsection and 'Starman' logo; significant spine stress and color-breaking ticks; blunted and worn corners; noticeable edge wear with small tears on the left spine; aging/oxidation visible on the white border and logo areas.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $10 - $20; Graded (CGC 4.0): Approximately $35 - $45
Recent Sales
Recent eBay sales for raw copies in mid-to-low grade range from $12 to $25. Higher grade (9.4+) copies can exceed $150.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of the grading service (CGC/CBCS) would likely exceed the final market value of the book in this condition (estimated 4.0). Better suited for a personal collection or a 'reader' copy.
Notable Features
First appearance and origin of Mikaal Tomas (Starman); features the 30-cent price variant; contains early barcode newsstand iteration.
Authentication Notes
The item appears to be an authentic 1976 print. Ink saturation on the Joe Kubert cover is consistent with Bronze Age production standards. Staple placement shows slight migration common for this title, and the barcode placement is standard for newsstand copies of this period.