Action Comics #509 Value Guide

Action Comics #509 is a classic Bronze Age Superman story published in July 1980, featuring the creative talents of Cary Bates and legendary artist Curt Swan. This issue is highly collectible for its unique 'Command Performance' plot where Superman must complete tasks for five mysterious figures to save Earth from a massive space vessel.

What Is Action Comics #509 Worth?

The typical price range for Action Comics #509 is $8 - $12 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The physical condition of the paper, specifically looking for off-white to white pages versus yellowing.
• The presence of spine stress marks, color breaks, or corner blunting which reduces the $8-$12 value range.
• Centering of the cover wrap and the integrity of the original staples.
• Market demand for Cary Bates scripted stories and Curt Swan's iconic Bronze Age Superman illustrations.

How to Identify Action Comics #509?

• Verify the cover date of July 1980 and the original 50-cent cover price.
• Check for the artistic credits of Curt Swan and Frank Chiaramonte on the interior splash page.
• Ensure the story title 'Superman's Command Performance' matches the interior narrative.
• Look for the distinct DC 'bullet' logo in the top left corner of the front cover.

History of Action Comics #509

Published in July 1980, this issue is notable for being part of the long-running Action Comics series which originally debuted in 1938. The story was written by Cary Bates with art by Curt Swan and Frank Chiaramonte. It features a unique plot where Superman is forced to perform tasks for five mysterious figures to save Earth from a giant space vessel.