Green Lantern #86 Value Guide

Green Lantern #86 is a cornerstone of the Bronze Age, representing the pinnacle of the socially conscious 'Green Lantern/Green Arrow' run by Dennis O'Neil and Neal Adams. This issue is highly collectible for its raw portrayal of Speedy's drug addiction, a narrative shift that redefined the maturity of the medium.

What affects the value of Green Lantern #86?

• The physical condition of the spine, specifically looking for color breaks or stress lines.
• Page quality and color, with 'White' to 'Off-White' pages commanding the highest premiums.
• The presence of any professional grading from services like CGC or CBCS which validates the $100-$120 valuation.
• Completeness of the book, including the presence of all original advertisements and the centerfold.

How to Identify Green Lantern #86?

• Verify the 15-cent cover price and the August 1971 publication date on the indicia.
• Check for the distinctive Neal Adams cover art featuring Green Lantern and Green Arrow in a dramatic confrontation.
• Confirm the presence of the 'Approved by the Comics Code Authority' seal on the top right corner.
• Ensure the interior pages feature the specific storyline regarding Speedy's struggle with heroin addiction.

History of Green Lantern #86

Green Lantern #86 is a significant issue in comic book history, part of the acclaimed 'Green Lantern/Green Arrow' run by Dennis O'Neil and Neal Adams. This series was groundbreaking for its time, tackling relevant social issues like drug addiction, environmentalism, and poverty, rather than traditional superhero villains. Issue #86 specifically delves into the dangers of drug use, with Green Arrow's sidekick Speedy becoming addicted. This 'social relevance' era marked a shift in comic book storytelling, proving that comics could be both entertaining and thought-provoking, and it earned critical praise for its bold approach.