The Falcon ##3
Marvel Comics • The Falcon (Four-Issue Limited Series) Vol. 1
Writer
Christopher Priest (credited as James Owsley)
Interior Artist
Paul Smith
Cover Artist
Paul Smith
Publication Date
January 1984
Cover Variant
Direct Edition (Spider-Man head in UPC box)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Part 3 of 4 in Sam Wilson's first solo limited series. Falcon continues his battle against the Sentinel and Electro while dealing with the fallout of being framed for a crime. Features Sam Wilson (Falcon) and Redwing.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine (CGC 6.0)
Condition Details
Visible color-breaking spine stress/ticks (4-5 along left edge), significant corner blunting at bottom left and top left, slight edge wear along the right side, possible minor surface scuffing in the dark blue ink area at the top.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $3 - $8; Graded (CGC 9.8): $60 - $80
Recent Sales
Raw copies in similar condition typically sell for under $10. CGC 9.8 copies have recently sold in the $75 range, but lower grades (9.0 and below) often struggle to cover the cost of grading fees.
Grading Recommendation
Not worth professional grading. The cost of CGC/CBCS grading fees (approx $40+) exceeds the market value of the comic in this mid-grade condition. It is a great reader copy or binder filler.
Notable Features
First solo series for Sam Wilson (The Falcon). Direct Edition identified by the Spider-Man logo in the UPC box. Features early work by Christopher Priest.
Authentication Notes
The comic appears authentic based on late Bronze Age paper stock characteristics, the specific matte/gloss hybrid finish of the 1980s Marvel covers, and correct trade dress placement for the 1984 era.