Action Comics ##544
DC Comics • Action Comics Vol. 1
Writer
Cary Bates and Marv Wolfman
Interior Artist
Curt Swan, Murphy Anderson, and Gil Kane
Cover Artist
Gil Kane and Dick Giordano
Publication Date
June 1983
Cover Variant
Newsstand Edition (UPC in barcode box)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
45th Anniversary issue featuring two major DC milestones: the first appearance of Lex Luthor's Lexosuit (power armor) and the complete update/redesign of Brainiac into his iconic skeletal robotic form. The issue also includes a retrospective on the history of Action Comics.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine/Near Mint (CGC 9.0)
Condition Details
Minor spine stress markers visible on the left edge. Light corner blunting on the bottom right. Slight color rubbing/wear near the top left DC logo and 'Anniversary' banner. Overall high eye appeal with bright yellows and sharp registration.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $30 - $50; Graded (CGC 9.8): $250 - $350; Graded (CGC 9.0): $60 - $80
Recent Sales
Raw copies in similar mid-to-high grade typically sell for $35-$45. 9.8 graded copies have seen recent peaks around $300 due to the significance of the Brainiac redesign.
Grading Recommendation
Potentially worth grading if it can reach a 9.6 or 9.8 after a professional press and clean. At its current estimated 9.0, the grading fees may nearly equal the added market value.
Notable Features
Double-sized anniversary issue. Key Bronze Age issue featuring the first 'Modern' Robot Brainiac and the introduction of Lex Luthor's green and purple power suit which became his standard look for decades.
Authentication Notes
Authentic 1983 DC production. Correct $1.50 cover price for double-sized issue. Correct '64 pages' paper weight and newsstand barcode format for the period.