THE MAN OF STEEL #No. 6
DC Comics • The Man of Steel (6-Part Mini-Series)
Writer
John Byrne
Interior Artist
John Byrne (pencils) / Dick Giordano (inks)
Cover Artist
John Byrne
Publication Date
December 1986
Cover Variant
Direct Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
The epic conclusion to the 'Return to Smallville' storyline within John Byrne's revamp of Superman's origin. Clark Kent returns to Smallville to visit the Kents and discovers the truth about his heritage via a projection of Jor-El. He finally accepts his role as Earth's champion and officially assumes the identity of Superman.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine/Near Mint (CGC 9.0)
Condition Details
Visible mild spine stress/ticks that do not appear to break color significantly. Slight blunting on the lower-left corner visible through the bag. General shelf wear present, but remains flat with vibrant colors. The white background on the cover appears clean with minimal foxing or tanning.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5.00 - $12.00; Graded CGC 9.8: $60.00 - $85.00
Recent Sales
Raw copies in high grade typically sell for $5-10. Professional 9.8 graded copies have recently fluctuated between $65 and $90 on auction sites, while mid-grade copies remain in the dollar bin range.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading unless for personal collection sentimental value. While this copy is in high grade (estimated 9.0 - 9.4), the high census of 9.8 copies and low market demand for this specific issue make the cost of grading higher than the actual market value of the book.
Notable Features
Final issue of the landmark 1986 John Byrne mini-series that rebooted Superman for the Modern Age. Features a notable appearance of Lana Lang and the projection of Jor-El. Direct edition lacks a UPC barcode and features a DC logo/promo box instead.
Authentication Notes
The book displays authentic 1980s glossy paper stock and standard DC ink density of the era. Staple placement and 'Matt Wagner's DEMON' house ad are consistent with genuine first printings from late 1986.