Action Comics #505 Value Guide

Period
1980
Origin
United States
Materials
Paper, Ink
Category
Comic books

Action Comics #505 is a notable 1980 release from the late Bronze Age, featuring a classic confrontation between Superman and the creature Jorlan. Written by Cary Bates, this issue represents the era's shift toward more grounded storytelling within the historic series that first introduced the Man of Steel.

What affects the value of Action Comics #505?

  • CGC or CBCS grading significantly impacts the price, with high-grade copies (9.2+) commanding the top of the $5.00-$8.50 range.
  • The presence of any page yellowing or 'foxing' on the newsprint paper will decrease the market value.
  • Structural integrity, specifically spine stress marks or color breaks, determines if the book hits the premium value tier.
  • Centering of the cover wrap and the sharpness of the corners are critical for collectors of this 1980 era.

How to Identify Action Comics #505?

  • Verify the cover date of March 1980 and the original 40-cent cover price.
  • Check for the distinct cover art style of Ross Andru and Dick Giordano featuring Superman and the Hairy Beast.
  • Confirm the presence of the DC 'bullet' logo in the upper left corner, typical of the early 1980s.
  • Ensure the interior story 'The Beast Who Captured Superman' is written by Cary Bates.

History of Action Comics #505

Published in March 1980, this issue was written by Cary Bates with cover art by Ross Andru and Dick Giordano. It belongs to the long-running Action Comics series, which originally debuted in 1938 and introduced the world to Superman. This specific issue is part of the late Bronze Age of comics, characterized by a transition from campy stories to more grounded narratives.

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