The World of Smallville ##3
DC Comics • The World of Smallville (Mini-Series)
Writer
John Byrne
Interior Artist
Kurt Schaffenberger, Alfredo Alcala
Cover Artist
John Byrne
Publication Date
June 1988
Cover Variant
Regular (Direct Edition - Silver Superman Shield)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Chapter Three: 'Stolen Souls!'. This miniseries explores the post-Crisis on Infinite Earths history of Clark Kent's hometown. This issue delves into the secrets of the Manhunter robots and their influence on Smallville, featuring appearances by Jonathan and Martha Kent.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine/Near Mint (CGC 9.0)
Condition Details
Generally sharp and flat. Minor spine stress visible along the left edge. Slight blunting on the bottom right corner. Minimal color attrition at the top edge. Colors remain vibrant and centered.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $3 - $7. Graded (9.8): $40 - $60.
Recent Sales
Raw copies typically sell for a few dollars in bulk comic lots. High-grade 9.8 slabbed copies occasionally sell in the $50 range to completist collectors.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of the grading service (approx. $25-$40) exceeds the market value of the book unless it is a guaranteed 9.9 or 10.0 grade.
Notable Features
Part of the John Byrne era of Superman. Features the 'Fifty Years' Superman shield logo celebrating the 50th anniversary of the character (1938-1988). Direct Edition identified by the Superman logo in the UPC box area.
Authentication Notes
The book shows correct color registration and period-appropriate paper stock. The staples appear original. No signs of restoration or counterfeiting are visible; this is a common late-80s copper age book.