The New Guardians ##8
DC Comics • The New Guardians Vol. 1
Writer
Cary Bates
Interior Artist
Joe Staton
Cover Artist
Joe Staton
Publication Date
April 1989
Cover Variant
Direct Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
In this story titled 'Prisoners of the State,' The New Guardians—a group created by the Guardians of the Universe and Zamaron following the Millennium event—find themselves in conflict with the South African government. The team includes characters like Gloss, Jet, Ram, and Extrano. This issue specifically deals with institutional racism and the apartheid era.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine (CGC 8.0)
Condition Details
Light spine stress marks, minor corner blunting on the bottom right, and a tiny bit of edge wear along the top spine area. The yellow cover maintains high vibrancy.
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $10.00 (Raw) | $40.00 - $60.00 (Graded 9.8)
Recent Sales
Recent raw copies typically sell in the $2-$5 range in bulk lots or as bargain bin filler. High-grade slabbed copies often remain unsold due to low demand.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for grading. The cost of CGC/CBCS submission (approx. $25-$40) exceeds the market value of the book. It is a common 'Modern Age' title from the late 80s with high availability.
Notable Features
Features a story arc addressing 1980s geopolitical issues; notable for featuring Extrano, one of DC's first openly gay characters. This is a 'New Format' DC comic which was part of their Baxter paper or higher-quality paper initiative for direct market sales.
Authentication Notes
Authentic late-1980s DC production. Features the 'New Format' branding in the corner box rather than a barcode, characteristic of direct market editions of that era. Print quality is consistent with DC's higher-end stock from 1989.