The Outsiders #No. 5
DC Comics • The Outsiders (Volume 1)
Writer
Mike W. Barr
Interior Artist
Jim Aparo
Cover Artist
Jim Aparo
Publication Date
March 1986
Cover Variant
Regular/Direct Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Title: 'A Christmas Carol -- 1985'. This issue features the Outsiders team (Metamorpho, Katana, Halo, Geo-Force, Looker, and Black Lightning) in a holiday-themed story that pays homage to Dickens' classic. The story involves the team dealing with personal reflections and a supernatural threat during the Christmas season.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good/Fine (CGC 5.0)
Condition Details
Moderate spine stress and ticks that break color along the left edge. Significant vertical creasing/folding visible on the left side of the cover. Minor corner blunting and edge wear on the bottom right. Slight surface scuffing and potential tanning/yellowing of the white background areas.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $2 - $5 | Graded (9.8): $30 - $50
Recent Sales
Recent raw copies in Mid-Grade condition typically sell for $1-$3 in bulk lots. 9.8 graded copies have sold for approximately $45.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of the grading service ($25+) significantly exceeds the market value of the book in its current condition (Estimated 5.0). Grading would result in a net financial loss.
Notable Features
Baxter paper edition (high-quality paper for the era). Direct Market exclusive series. Features Looker as a member of the team. Winter/Holiday themed cover by legendary artist Jim Aparo.
Authentication Notes
Authentic 1980s DC Baxter paper stock. Ink density and registration appear consistent with period printing. Staple placement is correct for this production run.