World's Finest Comics Starring Superman and Batman ##288
DC Comics • World's Finest Comics Vol. 1
Writer
Cary Burkett
Interior Artist
George Tuska
Cover Artist
Ed Hannigan and Dick Giordano
Publication Date
February 1983
Cover Variant
Regular (Direct Edition)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Story titled 'The Negative Heroes.' Features Superman and Batman facing off against a monstrous energy creature representing their negative aspects. Also includes a Green Arrow backup story by Joey Cavalieri and Jerome Moore.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine/Near Mint (CGC 9.0)
Condition Details
Minor color-breaking spine stress/ticks visible on the left edge. Slight blunting on the top-left and bottom-left corners. The cover gloss appears well-preserved and the black ink density is strong with no major creases or tears visible from the front image.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5.00 - $12.00; Graded (CGC 9.8): $60.00 - $80.00
Recent Sales
Recent raw sales for NM- copies range from $8 to $15 on auction sites. Graded 9.8 copies have recently sold in the $75 range depending on shipping.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading unless for personal collection sentimental value. The cost of CGC/CBCS grading plus shipping generally exceeds the market value of the comic in this specific grade (estimated 9.0-9.2).
Notable Features
Features the Direct Edition 'Where the Action Is!' DC logo in the bottom-left corner rather than a UPC barcode. Bronze Age era. No major key first appearances.
Authentication Notes
Authentic copy. Features correct 60-cent price point for 1983. Standard newsprint paper stock indicated by slight off-white appearance on the edges. Genuine staple placement and Ed Hannigan signature visible in bottom-center art field.