KING CONAN ##3
Marvel Comics • King Conan Vol. 1
Writer
Roy Thomas
Interior Artist
John Buscema and Ernie Chan
Cover Artist
John Buscema
Publication Date
September 1980
Cover Variant
Direct Edition (Spiderman head in UPC box)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
King Conan and Prince Conn head to Zimbabwe. This issue is an adaptation of 'The Red Witch of Zimbabwe' by L. Sprague de Camp and Lin Carter. It features Conan battling Zembabwei warriors and a dragon-like Stegosaurus creature.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine- (CGC 7.5)
Condition Details
Visible color-breaking spine stress/ticks; slight blunting on the bottom-left and bottom-right corners; minor edge wear and surface scuffing particularly noticeable in the bottom right corner; some light tanning on the outer edges of the paper stock.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5 - $15 USD; Graded (CGC 7.5 - 9.0): $40 - $70 USD
Recent Sales
Recent ungraded copies in similar mid-to-high grade condition typically sell for $8-$12 on eBay. 9.8 graded copies can reach $150+, though this specific copy is not a 9.8 candidate.
Grading Recommendation
Not generally recommended for professional grading. The cost of CGC/CBCS grading fees and shipping likely exceeds the market value of the book in this specific condition. Keeping it in a high-quality bag and board is the more economical choice.
Notable Features
Direct Edition; Spiderman head in the UPC barcode box; features a promotional 'This Marvel Comic Could Be Worth $2500' sweepstakes banner on the cover; interior art by legendary Conan artist John Buscema.
Authentication Notes
The comic appears authentic based on the newsprint paper quality, the specific color registration of the 1980s Marvel 'Direct Edition' logo, and standard staple placement for this era of Marvel production.