The Man of Steel #No. 4
DC Comics • The Man of Steel (1986 Mini-Series)
Writer
John Byrne
Interior Artist
John Byrne and Dick Giordano
Cover Artist
John Byrne
Publication Date
November 1986
Cover Variant
Regular / Direct Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Part four of the six-part origin miniseries. This issue features the post-Crisis re-introduction of Lex Luthor, reimagined as a wealthy, legitimate businessman rather than a mad scientist. Superman is lured into a trap involving a hostage situation and a sophisticated weapon.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine/Near Mint (CGC 9.0)
Condition Details
Minor spine stress visible through the bag. Slight blunting on the top right corner. The cover retains good gloss and color vibrance, though the white background on the right is susceptible to light yellowing or storage marks which appear minimal here.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5 - $15 | Graded (9.8): $60 - $85
Recent Sales
Raw copies typically sell for around $8-10 on secondary markets. Graded 9.8 copies have recently sold in the $70 range.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading unless a 9.8 is guaranteed. The cost of grading exceeds the raw value for mid-to-high grades in this era. A professional press could improve the spine if needed.
Notable Features
First appearance of the 'Modern Age' (Post-Crisis) Lex Luthor as a billionaire industrialist. Features 'WHO watches the WATCHMEN?' ad box in the bottom left corner.
Authentication Notes
Standard 1980s DC gloss stock and newsprint interior. The Direct Edition is indicated by the DC logo in the UPC box. Correct price of 75 cents for the era.