The Flash ##298
DC Comics • The Flash Vol. 1
Writer
Cary Bates
Interior Artist
Carmine Infantino; Bob Smith
Cover Artist
Carmine Infantino; Dick Giordano
Publication Date
June 1981
Cover Variant
UK Price Variant (20p)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Features the story 'The Sinister Shade of the Dark!' starring Barry Allen (The Flash). The Flash faces off against the Shade. Also contains a Firestorm backup story ('Firestorm vs. Multiplex').
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine (CGC 6.0)
Condition Details
Moderate spine stress and ticks visible along the left edge. Corner blunting on the top right and bottom right corners. Minor color-breaking creases near the top edge. Slight yellowing of the cover consistent with age. General shelf wear and possible minor surface scuffing.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5-$10 USD. Graded (9.0+): $40-$60 USD. Note: UK price variants sometimes carry a small niche premium but often trade similar to US cents copies unless in high grade.
Recent Sales
Recent sales for mid-grade raw copies of this issue range from $3 to $8. High-grade (CGC 9.6) copies of similar Bronze Age Flash issues typically sell for $50-$80.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of grading exceeds the market value of the book in this condition. A professional pressing might slightly improve the grade, but it remains a low-value common issue.
Notable Features
UK 20p Price Variant; Appearance of The Shade; Firestorm backup story; Carmine Infantino cover art; Bronze Age DC issue.
Authentication Notes
Authentic DC product; correct 20p UK pricing for the June 1981 period. Paper stock and ink density appear consistent with age; no signs of restoration or reproduction visible from the provided image.