Superman Special #No. 1
DC Comics • Superman Special Vol. 1
Writer
Gil Kane
Interior Artist
Gil Kane
Cover Artist
Gil Kane
Publication Date
1983
Cover Variant
Regular/Direct Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Behold the Ultimate Man! A prestige-style one-shot by legendary artist Gil Kane. Superman faces off against a powerful new adversary, the 'Ultimate Man,' in a story that showcases Kane's dynamic anatomy and layout style.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine (CGC 6.0)
Condition Details
Visible color-breaking spine ticks, significant corner blunting (especially top and bottom left), minor edge wear on the right side, and slight surface scuffing/soiling on the white borders. The cover remains bright but shows clear handling wear.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5 - $10 | Graded (estimated 6.0): $30 - $45
Recent Sales
Recent eBay sales for raw copies range from $4 to $15 depending on condition. High-grade (9.8) copies sell for approximately $150-$200, but mid-grade copies generally sell for the cost of grading or less.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The comic shows significant handling wear (F/VF range), and the cost of the grading fee would likely exceed the market value of the slabbed book. Better preserved as a reader copy or in a bag and board.
Notable Features
Standalone prestige format special; entirely written and illustrated by Gil Kane; features classic early 80s DC logo; Direct Edition (indicated by the DC logo in the UPC slot).
Authentication Notes
Appears to be an authentic 1983 original. The paper stock and ink saturation are consistent with DC's early 1980s production standards for Baxter or high-quality newsstand paper used in specials. No signs of restoration or reproduction evident from the photo.