Action Comics ##384
DC Comics • Action Comics Vol. 1
Writer
Cary Bates
Interior Artist
Curt Swan
Cover Artist
Curt Swan
Publication Date
January 1970
Cover Variant
Regular
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Features the story 'The Forbidden Costume!' where Superman is accused of wearing a diabolical costume under his own. Also includes a Legion of Super-Heroes backup story entitled 'The Hero Who Quit!' featuring Ultra Boy and Sun Boy.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Good/Very Good (CGC 3.0)
Condition Details
Significant spine wear with multiple color-breaking stress lines and heavy chipping along the left edge. The bottom left corner has a large chip/missing piece. Visible surface soiling, scuffing, and moderate foxing on the cover. General edge wear and blunted corners.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5 - $15; Graded: $30 - $45 (though rarely graded in this condition)
Recent Sales
Recent raw sales for mid-grade copies range from $10 to $20; low-grade copies often sell for under $10 in bundled lots.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of third-party grading (CGC/CBCS) would exceed the market value of the comic in this condition.
Notable Features
Silver Age DC comic. Features the Legion of Super-Heroes. 15-cent cover price variant. Iconic Curt Swan artwork.
Authentication Notes
Authentic period-correct 15-cent cover price. Natural paper aging and staple oxidation consistent with 1970 publication. No signs of reproduction or counterfeiting.