Star Wars ##4
Marvel Comics • Star Wars Vol. 1
Writer
Roy Thomas
Interior Artist
Howard Chaykin
Cover Artist
Rick Hoberg / Dave Cockrum
Publication Date
October 1977
Cover Variant
Regular (Direct Edition - Blank UPC)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Part 4 of the original movie adaptation (A New Hope). Features the escape from the Death Star and the iconic duel between Obi-Wan Kenobi and Darth Vader. Key characters include Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, and Han Solo.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine (6.0)
Condition Details
Visible moderate spine stress and color-breaking ticks along the left edge. Significant corner blunting on the bottom right. The blank UPC box shows slight yellowing/soiling. Surface scuffing visible on the dark areas of the cover art.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $30 - $50; Graded CGC 6.0: $80 - $110
Recent Sales
Recent eBay sales for raw copies in mid-grade range from $35 to $55. CGC 9.8 copies have sold for over $1,200, but mid-grades remain affordable.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading in this condition unless intended for personal preservation. The cost of grading and shipping would likely equal the market value of the book at a 6.0 grade.
Notable Features
Features the death of Obi-Wan Kenobi. This specific copy is a 'Direct' edition as indicated by the blank UPC box (diamond price box usually indicates newsstand, but the lack of a barcode confirms direct market distribution).
Authentication Notes
The book displays appropriate aging for 1970s newsprint paper. No signs of reproduction or counterfeiting. Staple placement is correct for Marvel manufacturing of the era.