Captain America #169 - CGC 8.0 - Marvel Comics 1974

This issue officially marks the beginning of the “Secret Empire” story arc, one of the most famous for Captain America in the 1970s.

• The story opens with Falcon (Sam Wilson) being attacked by a gang of street thugs, so Cap steps in to help. The conflict leads Falcon to reflect on his role and the feeling of being perceived as "less" than Cap, fueling a significant personal conflict in his character.
• Meanwhile, Cap is under attack from the media: an organization called the Committee to Regain America's Principles (CRAP), led by the mysterious Quentin Harderman, begins a campaign to discredit him in the public eye.
• Harderman organizes a charity boxing match between Cap and the Tumbler , intending to make Cap look responsible for a tragic event. During the match, the Tumbler appears to collapse, and Cap is portrayed as the culprit, or at least an accomplice, in a murder. But there's a conspiracy behind it: Harderman has hired a hitman, Moonstone, to make it look like Cap killed the Tumbler.
• There are also scenes set in Wakanda: Falcon and Leia Taylor travel there, thanks to the involvement of the Black Panther, who offers technical support (new costume, enhancements, etc.) to help Falcon look good next to Cap.

Collectible strengths

• Excellent CGC grade 8.0 for a key Bronze Age album, with good internal quality and visual preservation.
• It is the first issue of the Secret Empire arc, important for the continuity of Cap and Falcon, and fundamental for the political-social themes it deals with (power, reputation, media manipulation).
• Includes Moonstone's first major public appearance in the plot against Cap, and the growing tension with Harderman/CRAP.
• Art by Sal Buscema; good graphic quality, balanced drawings, dramatic atmosphere.

Characteristics

• Cover date: January 1974
  
• Series: Captain America and the Falcon
  
• Condition: CGC 8.0 — Very Fine / Very Fine‑Plus
  
• Story: Steve Englehart & Mike Friedrich
• Art: Sal Buscema & Frank McLaughlin
• Cover: Sal Buscema