DC Comics Presents Superman and Black Lightning ##16
DC Comics • DC Comics Presents Vol. 1
Writer
Denny O'Neil
Interior Artist
Joe Staton
Cover Artist
Dick Giordano
Publication Date
December 1979
Cover Variant
UK Price Variant (15p)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Superman teams up with Black Lightning to battle a giant energy creature known as the 'Negative-One.' The story explores Black Lightning's reluctance to continue his hero role and Superman's efforts to help him rediscover his purpose.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good/Fine (CGC 5.0)
Condition Details
Visible color-breaking creases on the right edge and bottom right corner. Significant spine stress ticks. Moderate corner blunting and edge wear. Some surface scuffing and minor soiling visible on light areas of the cover.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $10 - $20; Graded (CGC 9.8 equivalent): $150+ (Note: UK Price Variants typically command a niche market; lower grades usually sell for slightly less than US cent copies).
Recent Sales
Recent sales for mid-grade raw copies range between $8 and $15. High-grade CGC 9.8 copies of this issue have sold for approximately $175.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of grading (CGC/CBCS) would likely exceed the final market value of the comic in this mid-grade condition. Best kept in a bag and board for personal collection.
Notable Features
Features a 15p UK price variant instead of the standard 40c price. Includes a UPC barcode on the bottom left. Mid-bronze age team-up issue.
Authentication Notes
The comic appears authentic. The aging patterns of the paper stock, the 15p UK price stamp (typical for the era's distribution in Britain), and the printing registration are all consistent with 1979 DC production standards.