Superman Presents The Phantom Zone ##1
DC Comics • The Phantom Zone (Mini-Series)
Writer
Steve Gerber
Interior Artist
Gene Colan and Tony DeZuniga
Cover Artist
Gene Colan and Dick Giordano
Publication Date
January 1982
Cover Variant
Regular Edition / Direct Edition (No UPC visible, typical of early 80s DC Direct)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
First issue of a 4-part limited series exploring the history of the Kryptonian prison dimension. Features Superman, General Zod, Jax-Ur, and introduction of the history of Quex-Ul. The story involves the Phantom Zone villains escaping to Earth.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good (CGC 4.0) to Very Good/Fine (CGC 5.0)
Condition Details
Moderate spine stress and color-breaking ticks; visible creasing on the top edge and right side; shelf wear and surface abrasions; a circular yellow sticker or residue is present on the right-center of the cover which significantly impacts the grade; corner blunting visible.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5.00 - $10.00; Graded (9.8): $120.00 - $150.00. Current state value: ~$5.00.
Recent Sales
High-grade 9.8 copies have recently sold for $130-$145. Raw mid-grade copies frequently sell for under $10 in value bins.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of shipping and grading fees far exceeds the market value of a mid-grade copy, especially with the sticker residue/damage present.
Notable Features
Part of DC's early 'Mini-Series' initiative. Features art by legendary Marvel artist Gene Colan in an early DC stint. Key story for Kryptonian lore.
Authentication Notes
The comic appears to be an authentic 1982 original. The 60 cent price point, DC Bullet logo, and 'Mini-Series' banner are consistent with late Bronze Age DC production standards. No signs of restoration visible under current lighting; sticker presence is a known defect.