Dr. Fate ##20
DC Comics • Doctor Fate Vol. 2
Writer
J. M. DeMatteis
Interior Artist
Shawn McManus
Cover Artist
Shawn McManus
Publication Date
August 1990
Cover Variant
Direct Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Part two of 'The Faust Gambit.' In this story, the character of Dr. Fate (Inza Nelson) and her companions deal with mystical threats and the manipulation of souls. Key characters include Inza Nelson, Kent Nelson, and the demon Faust.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine/Near Mint (CGC 9.0)
Condition Details
Minor spine stress visible along the left edge, slight blunting on the bottom left corner, and minor surface wear typical of age. Colors remain vibrant and registration is sharp.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $3 - $8; Graded (9.8): $35 - $50
Recent Sales
Recent ungraded copies have sold for approximately $2.00 to $5.00 on secondary markets. High-grade slabbed copies are rarely traded due to low demand for non-key issues in this run.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of CGC/CBCS grading fees ($25+) significantly exceeds the market value of the book. Preservation in a bag and board is sufficient.
Notable Features
Features the work of the acclaimed creative team of DeMatteis and McManus. Direct Edition lacks a UPC barcode in the bottom left corner (common for the era).
Authentication Notes
Authentic DC product from 1990. Paper stock is standard newsprint/copper-age quality with expected light off-white tone. Staple placement is correct for DC manufacturing of this period.