Detective Comics ##469
DC Comics • Detective Comics Vol. 1
Writer
Steve Englehart
Interior Artist
Walt Simonson
Cover Artist
Jim Aparo
Publication Date
May 1977
Cover Variant
Newsstand Edition (30 cent)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
This issue features the first appearance of Dr. Alexander Sartorius, also known as Dr. Phosphorus. Phosphorus attempts to take revenge on Gotham City and Batman for the nuclear accident that transformed him. This marks the beginning of the acclaimed Steve Englehart/Marshall Rogers run (though Simonson provides art for this specific issue).
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good (CGC 4.0)
Condition Details
Visible water damage/staining on the right side of the cover and speech bubbles, significant creasing in the lower right corner, several color-breaking spine ticks, rounded corners, and minor edge wear along the bottom and right side. Surface dirt or foxing visible in the gutter.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $15 - $25; Graded (CGC 4.0): approximately $40 - $55.
Recent Sales
Recent sales for mid-grade copies (VG to FN) typically hover between $20 and $45 depending on the severity of staining. A CGC 9.4 sold recently for around $250.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The moisture damage and staining significantly lower the maximum potential grade. The cost of grading (plus shipping) would likely exceed the final market value of the book in this condition.
Notable Features
First appearance of Dr. Phosphorus (key Bronze Age villain); Batman Logo 'Bullet' version; 30 cent price variant.
Authentication Notes
Authentic Bronze Age DC publication. Paper stock shows appropriate age-related browning. Printing registration and staple placement are consistent with late-1970s DC manufacturing.