Expert: Chris Brown - 9/6/2004

Question
I have heard that there are two issues of the Star Wars comic book #1. I heard that one is worth a lot more than the other. I have two versions of the first issue. How do I know what they're worth? Both issues have different covers with different information on them. What do you know about this matter? Thanks.

Answer
Hi Dave

There have been many different Star Wars comics put out by different publishers, all with #1 issues.  I assume, though, that you are referring to the 1977 Marvel comics Star Wars #1.  There are two versions of this comic.  The standard version has a .30 cent cover price.  There was also an edition that sold for .35 cents that is worth much more.  However, there were also later reprints of both of these with the same cover prices.  The originals have UPC codes on the cover, while the later reprints have small blank boxes on the cover where the UPC code should be.

If you have one of the originals, here are the prices in the current price guide:

.30 cent cover:

$5/$15/$60

.35 cent cover:

$50/$150/$800

In each case, the first price is for a standard copy with creases, minor tears, yellowing pages, etc.  The second price is for a copy with only minimal flaws.  The final price is for a newsstand new copy with no defects.  These are retail prices, though.  You would get something less, maybe in the 30 to 50% range by selling it to a comic shop or on eBay.

Chris