SECRET ORIGINS OF SUPER-HEROES #Special No. 1

DC ComicsDC Special Series Vol. 1 #10

SECRET ORIGINS OF SUPER-HEROES

Writer

Paul Levitz, Gerry Conway, Denny O'Neil

Interior Artist

Joe Staton, Mike Vosburg, Dick Dillin

Cover Artist

Jose Luis Garcia-Lopez

Publication Date

1978

Cover Variant

Regular/Newsstand Edition (with UPC)

Printing

First Printing

Comic Description

A giant-sized issue detailing the origins of Doctor Fate (Kent Nelson), Lightray of the New Gods, and Black Canary (Dinah Drake/Lance). It explores the Golden Age and Bronze Age mythologies of these iconic characters.

Condition & Value

Condition Grade

Very Good (CGC 4.0)

Condition Details

Visible heavy spine wear with numerous color-breaking spine ticks. Significant blunting and wear on the upper right and lower right corners. Noticeable surface scuffing on the black background areas. Slight roll to the spine and general edge wear along the top and bottom perimeters.

Estimated Market Value

Raw: $10.00 - $15.00 / Graded (CGC 4.0): $35.00 - $45.00

Recent Sales

Recent raw copies in similar mid-grade condition have sold for $8 to $18. High-grade (NM 9.4+) copies can reach $100+.

Grading Recommendation

Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of the grading service (approx. $25-$40) exceeds the value added for a copy in this condition. This is a great 'reader' copy for a personal collection.

Notable Features

Features the origin of Doctor Fate. Part of the 'DC Special Series' which ran various one-shots and giant specials. Newsstand edition with UPC barcode.

Authentication Notes

Appears to be an authentic 1978 Bronze Age DC publication. Paper stock shows appropriate age-related off-white to yellowish toning on the interior page edges visible at the spine.

Scanned on 3/31/2026