CHALLENGE! #No. 5
DC Comics • DC Challenge! (1985 series)
Writer
Mike W. Barr
Interior Artist
Dave Gibbons and Mark Farmer
Cover Artist
Dave Gibbons
Publication Date
March 1986
Cover Variant
Direct Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Part of a 12-issue experimental maxi-series where each issue is produced by a different creative team picking up from the previous team's cliffhanger. This issue features Captain Marvel (Shazam), Doctor Fate, Adam Strange, and Uncle Sam dealing with interdimensional threats.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine/Near Mint (CGC 9.0)
Condition Details
Minor spine stress/ticks visible against the white background. Slight corner rubbing at the top left. Excellent color vibrancy and cover gloss with no visible creases or staining.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $3.00 - $8.00; Graded (9.8): $30.00 - $55.00
Recent Sales
Recent eBay sales for raw copies of this mid-series issue generally fall in the $2 to $5 range plus shipping. High-grade slabbed copies rarely appear for sale as the cost of grading often exceeds the book's value.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of CGC/CBCS services (approx. $25-$40) outweighs the market value of the comic. It is best kept in a poly bag with board for preservation.
Notable Features
Features a unique 'round-robin' storytelling format. The cover artist, Dave Gibbons, is well-known for his work on 'Watchmen' which debuted the same year. No major key character first appearances in this specific issue.
Authentication Notes
Authentic 1980s DC production. Features the standard 'DC Blue' logo of the era, period-accurate Baxter-style paper or high-quality newsprint, and correct price markings for US and Canadian markets.