Star Wars Dark Empire #3 Value Guide

Star Wars Dark Empire #3 is a pivotal issue in the 1992 Dark Horse series that redefined the Expanded Universe. This installment continues the controversial and influential storyline of Emperor Palpatine's resurrection and Luke Skywalker's descent into the dark side.

What Is Star Wars Dark Empire #3 Worth?

The typical price range for Star Wars Dark Empire #3 is $8 - $10 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Physical condition and CGC grade, with high-grade copies (9.8) fetching the top of the $8-$10 range.
• The presence of any ink fading or spine ticks which are common for this era of paper stock.
• Market demand for Dark Empire keys, specifically those depicting Luke's service to the Reborn Emperor.
• Completeness of the issue, including all original advertising inserts and stable staples.

How to Identify Star Wars Dark Empire #3?

• Verify the Dark Horse Comics logo and the 1992 publication date on the indicia.
• Check for the distinct, watercolor-style illustrations by artist Cam Kennedy.
• Ensure the cover features the iconic Tom Veitch writing credit and original $2.50 or $2.95 cover price.
• Confirm the presence of two original staples and the specific paper stock used in early 90s Dark Horse prints.

History of Star Wars Dark Empire #3

Dark Empire was a seminal six-issue comic series that revitalized the Star Wars Expanded Universe in the early 1990s. Written by Tom Veitch and illustrated by Cam Kennedy, the story arc famously featured the resurrection of Emperor Palpatine in a clone body and Luke Skywalker's brief fall to the dark side. It was highly influential in establishing the tone for Star Wars storytelling outside of the original film trilogy.