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Superman Family Vol. 1 #173 (1975) – Key Nightwing and Flamebird Story (FN+)
Superman Family Vol. 1 #173 (1975) – Key Nightwing and Flamebird Story (FN+)
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Superman Family Vol. 1 #173 (1975) – Key Nightwing and Flamebird StoryDive into a Bronze Age classic with Superman Family Vol. 1 #173, published by DC Comics in October-November 1975. This 68-page anthology issue, part of the iconic Superman Family series, is a must-have for collectors and investors seeking a blend of new and reprinted stories featuring Superman’s extended cast.Key Appearances: This issue includes a new Jimmy Olsen story, “Menace of the Micro-Monster,” written by Cary Bates with art by Kurt Schaffenberger, where Superman and Jimmy Olsen return as Nightwing and Flamebird in Kandor to find Dev-Re’s radical daughter, Sarna. Other characters include Dev-Re, Jor-El (statue), and Lara (statue). Reprints include: Supergirl’s “The Villain Who Married Supergirl” (from Action Comics #338, art by Jim Mooney), where alien Raspor and his partner Viperie, interplanetary criminals, target Kara Zor-El; Krypto’s “My Super-Pet, Krypto” (from Superboy #88, by Otto Binder and John Sikela); and Lois Lane’s “Beware of the Bug-Belle” (from Superman’s Girl Friend, Lois Lane #69, by E. Nelson Bridwell and Schaffenberger), featuring Lois and Lana Lang as Insect Queen duo battling the Anti-Superman Gang. The Kurt Schaffenberger cover, showcasing Superman, enhances its appeal.
Current Value: As of July 2025, a raw Superman Family #173 in mid-grade condition (VG/FN) sells for $5–$15 on eBay and MyComicShop. Its value is driven by the Nightwing and Flamebird feature, the Superman Family series’ cult status, and its anthology format, appealing to fans of Superman, Supergirl, and supporting characters.Expected Value & Trends: This issue’s value is poised for modest growth, fueled by nostalgia for Bronze Age DC comics and the upcoming Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow film (June 2026), which may boost interest in Supergirl’s Pre-Crisis era. The Nightwing and Flamebird story ties into Kandor’s lore, with reprints collected in Superman: The Adventures of Nightwing and Flamebird (2009). Mid-grade Bronze Age issues typically appreciate 3–5% annually, with potential to reach $8–$20 by 2027, especially if Supergirl or Kandor-related media emerges. The issue’s diverse stories and iconic cover add long-term collectible value.
Investment Opportunity: Superman Family #173 is a Bronze Age gem packed with Superman universe tales. Its new Nightwing and Flamebird story, key reprints featuring Supergirl, Krypto, and Lois Lane, and vibrant cover make it a standout for collectors. With growing interest in DC’s extended Superman cast, this issue offers nostalgic charm and steady appreciation potential. Grab this classic now to own a piece of Superman’s legacy!
