Adventure Comics presents Dial 'H' For Hero ##489

DC ComicsAdventure Comics Vol. 1

Adventure Comics presents Dial 'H' For Hero

Writer

Marv Wolfman / E. Nelson Bridwell

Interior Artist

Carmine Infantino / Howard Bender

Cover Artist

Carmine Infantino and Dick Giordano

Publication Date

January 1982

Cover Variant

Regular/Newsstand Edition (Direct Market lack of barcode)

Printing

First Printing

Comic Description

Features the 'Dial H for Hero' backup story 'Beware the Marionette!'. This era of Dial H allowed readers to submit their own character designs. Key characters include Chris King and Vicky Grant. Also contains a Zatanna backup story.

Condition & Value

Condition Grade

Very Good/Fine (CGC 5.0)

Condition Details

Moderate spine stress and ticks; minor color breaking creases; visible corner blunting especially on top left and bottom right; light surface soiling/foxing on the white cover areas; slight vertical subscription-style crease on the right side of the cover.

Estimated Market Value

Raw: $5 - $10 | Graded (estimated 5.0): $25 - $35

Recent Sales

Recent raw copies in Mid-Grade condition typically sell on eBay for between $3 and $12. High-grade (9.0+) copies fetch $20-$40.

Grading Recommendation

Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of CGC/CBCS grading (approx. $30-$50) exceeds the market value of the book in this condition. Keep in a bag and board for preservation.

Notable Features

Bronze Age DC title featuring fan-submitted hero designs. Features the first appearance of the Marionette (fan-created). Contains 'New Pages from the New DC' ad banner.

Authentication Notes

The book shows appropriate age-related paper oxidation and ink density for a 1982 DC publication. Matte paper stock is consistent with materials used during this era. No signs of reproduction or counterfeiting.

Scanned on 3/8/2026