SHOWCASE presents EASY CO.'S SGT. ROCK #No. 45
DC Comics • Showcase Vol. 1
Writer
Robert Kanigher
Interior Artist
Joe Kubert
Cover Artist
Joe Kubert (Pencils) and Russ Heath (Inks)
Publication Date
August 1963
Cover Variant
Regular/Direct Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Story titled 'Sergeants Aren't Born--!' features Sgt. Rock and Easy Company during WWII. It explores the backstory of Frank Rock before he became the legendary sergeant, including his hard-knock upbringing and his transition into leadership under fire. Key characters include Sgt. Rock and Bulldog.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Good/Very Good (CGC 3.0)
Condition Details
Moderate to heavy spine wear with splitting/chipping at the top and bottom; multiple color-breaking creases across the front cover; blunting and rounding of corners; general edge wear and minor tearing along the right margin; visible soiling/toning on the light area and interior paper; significant crease at the top right corner near the Comics Code Seal; centerfold and staples likely show oxidation.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $50 - $90. Graded (CGC 3.0): $110 - $140.
Recent Sales
Recent eBay sales for raw mid-to-low grade copies (VG range) have hovered between $60 and $85. Higher grade 6.0 copies can exceed $400, while fine copies (4.0) usually reach $100-$115.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading in current state unless for preservation purposes. The cost of CGC grading, shipping, and handling would likely equal or exceed the potential value gain at a 3.0 grade. Pressing may slightly improve the appearance but will not fix the color breaks or spine damage.
Notable Features
This is the third and final appearance of Sgt. Rock in the Showcase try-out series before he returned to 'Our Army at War'. It is considered a semi-key 'Sgt. Rock' issue as a Silver Age origin-themed story. Features a 12-cent silver age cover price and no UPC (standard for the era).
Authentication Notes
The item appears authentic based on the age-appropriate paper oxidation (yellowing), 12-cent price point, and the specific 'Russ Heath' signature visible on the cover art wall. The ink density and typical Silver Age DC logo placement are consistent with 1963 production.