Arak Son of Thunder #No. 16
DC Comics • Arak, Son of Thunder (1981-1985)
Writer
Roy Thomas
Interior Artist
Ernie Colón
Cover Artist
Ernie Colón
Publication Date
December 1982
Cover Variant
Direct Edition (indicated by DC Logo in UPC box)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Arak and his companions battle the sea-beast of Byzantium. Valda the Iron Maiden returns in this issue. The story follows Arak, a Native American son of a thunder god living in 8th-century Europe, as he journeys through a world of myth and sorcery. Key character appearances include Arak and Valda.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine- (CGC 7.5)
Condition Details
Moderate spine stress with color-breaking ticks visible along the left edge. Slight blunting on the bottom right corner. Minor surface wear and color rub on the blue background areas. Edge wear consistent with age and storage.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $3.00 - $6.00; Graded (CGC 9.8): $35.00 - $50.00
Recent Sales
Recent raw copies of this mid-grade issue have sold for approximately $2.00 - $5.00 on platforms like eBay. There is low market volatility for this specific issue as it is not a major key.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of grading (approx. $25-$40) exceeds the current market value of the book in this condition. This is a common Bronze Age back issue.
Notable Features
Includes a backup story featuring 'The Valda the Iron Maiden.' Features an Ernie Colón cover and interior art. Direct edition copy with 'Where the Action is!' box replacing the UPC barcode.
Authentication Notes
The item appears to be an authentic 1982 DC publication. The paper stock shows natural aging (slight off-white toning), and the printing process (four-color dot matrix) is consistent with DC production from that era.