BLACKHAWK #NO. 108
DC Comics • Blackhawk Vol. 1
Writer
Dick French
Interior Artist
Dick Dillin and Charles Cuidera
Cover Artist
Dick Dillin
Publication Date
January 1957
Cover Variant
Regular/Direct Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Features the story 'Killer Shark's Secret Weapon - Killer Whale!'. The Blackhawk Squadron faces their recurring nemesis, Killer Shark, who utilizes a massive mechanical killer whale to attack. This issue represents the mid-1950s transition period for the title after DC acquired the property from Quality Comics.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Good/Very Good (CGC 3.0)
Condition Details
Significant wear including a corner piece missing from the top right (affecting the Comics Code Seal), multiple color-breaking spine stresses, heavy corner blunting, visible surface scuffing across the yellow background, and general edge wear. The bottom right corner shows some minor chipping and rounding.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $30 - $55; Professional Graded (CGC 3.0): $60 - $85. High-grade copies of this Silver Age transition issue can reach $300+, but this copy is low-to-mid grade.
Recent Sales
Recent sales for mid-grade (VG 4.0) copies have averaged around $50-$65. Lower grades (G 2.0) typically sell for $20-$30.
Grading Recommendation
Not highly recommended for professional grading in current state due to the corner loss on the seal. The cost of grading would likely exceed the immediate value added. However, it is an excellent candidate for a professional 'press and clean' to improve surface presentation.
Notable Features
Early Silver Age DC issue; features characters Blackhawk, Killer Shark, Chop-Chop, and the team; classic 'mechanical monster' cover common to the era; 10-cent original cover price.
Authentication Notes
Appears to be an authentic 1957 original. Printing registration is consistent with Silver Age DC standards. The paper aging/tanning visible on the edges is consistent with 65+ year old newsprint.