Secret Origins ##3
DC Comics • Secret Origins Vol. 2 (1986 Series)
Writer
Roy Thomas
Interior Artist
Jerry Bingham
Cover Artist
Jerry Bingham
Publication Date
June 1986
Cover Variant
Direct Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
This issue features the post-Crisis on Infinite Earths origin of Shazam (Captain Marvel). It retells how young Billy Batson meets the wizard Shazam and gains the powers of Solomon, Hercules, Atlas, Zeus, Achilles, and Mercury.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine (CGC 6.0)
Condition Details
Visible spine stress marks and color-breaking ticks on the left edge. Minor corner blunting on the bottom right. Slight cover scuffing and edge wear along the top margin. The comic does not lay perfectly flat, suggesting some internal humidity or shelving pressure.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $3 - $8 / Graded (9.8): $40 - $60
Recent Sales
Recent raw copies in similar mid-grade condition have sold for $2-$5 plus shipping. High-grade 9.8 slabbed copies occasionally reach $55.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of CGC/CBCS grading (approx. $30-$40) exceeds the current market value of the book in this estimated condition. It is best kept in a bag and board for personal collection.
Notable Features
Post-Crisis origin of Shazam. Features promotional blurb 'Don't miss Dark Knight #1!' on the front cover. Direct Edition with 'Secret Origins' logo in the UPC box area.
Authentication Notes
The comic exhibits authentic 1980s DC copperplate printing characteristics. The colors show standard saturation for the era, and the cover gloss appears correct for a mid-80s direct market book. No signs of reproduction or counterfeiting are present.