DC Comics Presents Superman and the Atom ##51
DC Comics • DC Comics Presents Vol. 1
Writer
Dan Mishkin
Interior Artist
Alex Saviuk
Cover Artist
Gil Kane
Publication Date
November 1982
Cover Variant
Regular/Direct Edition (denoted by DC logo in UPC box)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Superman teams up with The Atom (Ray Palmer). The story involves Superman's apparent death and the Atom's attempt to investigate. Crucially, this issue contains an 'Extra Free 16-Page Comic Preview' of Masters of the Universe (He-Man).
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good/Fine (CGC 5.0)
Condition Details
Visible color-breaking spine stress/ticks; significant rounding and blunting of the top right and bottom left corners; visible vertical creasing along the spine; minor edge wear and surface scuffing visible on the pink background; potential slight tanning consistent with age.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $25 - $45 | Graded (estimated 5.0): $50 - $70
Recent Sales
In higher grades (9.0+), this book has seen increased demand due to the MOTU preview, selling for $100+. Mid-grade copies like this typically sell between $30 and $50 depending on the buyer.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading in its current state. The significant corner wear and spine ticks will prevent a high technical grade. The cost of grading (CGC/CBCS fees + shipping) would likely exceed the added value of the slab.
Notable Features
Major Key: Contains the first appearance of the Masters of the Universe (He-Man, Skeletor, and Castle Grayskull) in a DC insert preview. Features a distinctive 'pink' monochromatic cover design by Gil Kane.
Authentication Notes
The item appears to be an authentic 1982 printing. The 'Where the Action Is' DC logo in the bottom left corner confirms it as a Direct Market edition rather than a Newsstand edition (which would have a barcode).