Machine Man ##17
Marvel Comics • Machine Man Vol. 1
Writer
Tom DeFalco
Interior Artist
Steve Ditko
Cover Artist
Steve Ditko
Publication Date
October 1980
Cover Variant
UK Price Variant
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
In this issue, Machine Man (Aaron Stack) faces off against Madam Menace (Sunset Bain). The story involves the kidnapping of Machine Man's arm and a battle against her mercenaries. Key characters include Madam Menace and Alpha, her personal bodyguard.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine/Very Fine (CGC 7.0)
Condition Details
Moderate spine stress with color-breaking ticks; corner blunting on the top and bottom right; slight edge wear along the top; minor surface scuffing visible on the 'Toys R Us' banner; vertical alignment seems slightly shifted to the left.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5 - $15 USD | Graded (estimated 7.0): $40 - $60 USD
Recent Sales
US editions in mid-grade typically sell for $3-$8. UK variants command a slight premium to specialists but generally follow standard price trends for this run.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of CGC/CBCS submission (approx. $30-$50) exceeds or equals the current market value of the book in this condition. It is a great collector's copy but not a high-yield investment piece.
Notable Features
Features art by Spider-Man co-creator Steve Ditko. This is the UK Price Variant (15p cover price instead of 40c/50c US cents). Includes the Spidey head UPC replacement box and a Toys 'R' Us promotional banner.
Authentication Notes
Authentic 1980s Marvel newsprint. The 15p price mark and specific 'OCT' date formatting are consistent with authentic Marvel UK distributed editions of this era. Ink saturation and Ditko's line work appear consistent with original production.