Star Wars ##23
Marvel Comics • Star Wars Vol. 1 (1977)
Writer
Archie Goodwin
Interior Artist
Carmine Infantino and Bob Wiacek
Cover Artist
Carmine Infantino and Bob Wiacek
Publication Date
May 1979
Cover Variant
Direct Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Storyline: 'Flight Into Fury!' Luke Skywalker and Han Solo attempt to evade Darth Vader after their escape from the Wheel. This issue features a classic Darth Vader cover and continues the post-Episode IV adventures of the Rebel Alliance.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine (CGC 6.0)
Condition Details
Visible color-breaking spine stress/ticks (at least 3-4 along left edge), edge wear on the right side, blunt corners at bottom right, potential minor surface scuffing in the black ink areas, and slight yellowing of the cover edges consistent with age.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $10 - $20; Graded (CGC 9.6+): $100 - $150; Current condition (6.0) graded: $40 - $55.
Recent Sales
Recent eBay sales for raw copies in mid-grade range from $12 to $18. High-grade (9.8) copies can fetch over $250.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for grading unless sentimental, as the cost of grading (CGC/CBCS) would likely exceed the market value of a mid-grade (6.0) copy. A light press might improve the appearance but likely won't push it beyond the VF range due to color-breaking creases.
Notable Features
Classic Darth Vader and Millennium Falcon cover. Direct Edition (indicated by the UPC barcodes pattern). Part of the original 107-issue Marvel run.
Authentication Notes
Authentic copper age Marvel printing. 40 cent cover price is correct for 1979 Marvel releases. Paper stock, ink saturation, and staples appear consistent with 1970s manufacturing.