a copy of Blondie No. 17, published by Supercomix in South Africa.

This series was part of a major wave of comic reprinting in South Africa during the late 1970s and early 1980s by Republican Press (RP).

Identification

• Series: Supercomix (branded as "South Africa's Own Comics").

• Title: Chic Young's Blondie.

• Issue Number: 17.

• Publication Date: December (approx. 1983 based on similar series runs).

• Key Features: It includes a "Free Pop-Star Poster Inside" (a signature move for Supercomix to appeal to the local youth market) and dual pricing for South Africa (30c) and Zimbabwe (30c).

Estimated Value

R100 - 150

1. The Poster: These comics were designed to have the centerfold poster removed and tacked to a wall. If the pop-star poster is still intact and attached to the staples, the value can double.

2. Condition: Your copy shows visible "spine stress" (small white creases along the left edge), some blunted corners, and general surface wear. This puts it in the "Good" (2.0 to 3.0) grade range.

3. Local vs. International: While these are common in South African second-hand shops, they are considered "foreign variants" in the US and Europe, where specialized collectors may pay a slight premium for the unique cover branding.

Historical Context

Supercomix were a staple of South African childhoods in the 80s. Because international comic distribution was often restricted or delayed due to sanctions and logistics, Republican Press licensed the content to print locally. They are distinct for their thinner paper quality and the "Rp" logo in the top right corner.

CONTACT DETAILS:

Auctioneer: Dirsan

Contact No: 082 235 8456

Email: [email protected]