Superman #167
DC Comics • Superman Vol. 1
Writer
Edmond Hamilton (with Cary Bates)
Interior Artist
Curt Swan (pencils), George Klein (inks)
Cover Artist
Curt Swan (pencils), George Klein (inks)
Publication Date
February 1964
Cover Variant
Regular/Direct Edition (12c cover price)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Key Silver Age issue featuring the first team-up between Brainiac and Lex Luthor. The story, 'The Team of Luthor and Brainiac!', establishes the origin of Brainiac as a biological entity/organic computer created by the Computer Tyrants of Colu, rather than purely a machine. Brainiac and Luthor shrink Superman and hold him captive.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good (CGC 4.0)
Condition Details
Visible spine stress and color-breaking creases; moderate corner blunting and minor rounding; significant edge wear on the right side; subscription-style vertical crease along the spine; minor staining/soiling on the back of Lex Luthor's head; faint tanning of the paper stock; small tear on the left mid-edge near Brainiac's shoulder.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $35 - $60; Graded (CGC 4.0): $100 - $130
Recent Sales
Recent sales for mid-grade raw copies range from $45 to $75; high-grade 9.0+ copies have reached $400+. Recent 4.0 graded copies average around $115.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading unless for personal preservation. The estimated grade of 4.0 - 4.5 would likely not net a significant enough profit after grading fees compared to its current raw value.
Notable Features
First team-up of Lex Luthor and Brainiac; Retcon of Brainiac's origin; Curt Swan cover art; 12-cent price point.
Authentication Notes
Authentic Silver Age print; contains period-accurate DC 'National Comics' bullet logo, appropriate 12-cent cover price, and correct paper aging characteristics. No signs of restoration visible from the image provided.