* Issue Number and Year: Early issues from the original Howard the Duck series (1973-1976) are generally more valuable than later ones.
* Condition: The condition of the comic (graded by companies like CGC) is crucial. A pristine comic in near-mint condition will fetch a much higher price than a heavily damaged one.
* Rarity: Some issues might be rarer than others due to limited print runs or special editions.
* Artist and Writer: Comics with popular artists and writers like Steve Gerber, Gene Colan, or Val Mayerik often command higher prices.
* Significance: Certain issues might be significant for their storylines, first appearances of characters, or other historical reasons.
To find out the potential value of your Howard the Duck comic, you can:
1. Look it up on online databases: Websites like Comic Book DB, GoCollect, and eBay can provide price guides and sales history for specific issues.
2. Consult with a comic book expert: Local comic book stores or online forums can offer expert opinions on the value of your comic.
3. Get it graded: If you're serious about selling your comic, getting it professionally graded by CGC or another reputable company can increase its value.
It's important to note that:
* Comic book prices are constantly fluctuating: Factors like market trends, collector demand, and even the release of new Howard the Duck media can affect prices.
* Just because a comic is old doesn't mean it's valuable: Many older comics are common and worth only a few dollars.
* Don't get scammed: Be wary of anyone offering you a ridiculously high price for your comic. Do your research and be sure you're dealing with a reputable buyer.
By considering these factors and doing your research, you can get a better idea of the potential value of your Howard the Duck comic.