Detective Comics ##471
DC Comics • Detective Comics Vol. 1
Writer
Steve Englehart
Interior Artist
Marshall Rogers
Cover Artist
Marshall Rogers
Publication Date
August 1977
Cover Variant
Regular (Newsstand Edition with UPC)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Part of the legendary Steve Englehart and Marshall Rogers run. This issue features the return and origin of Hugo Strange, who uses a machine to transform himself into a monster-like version of Batman. Features appearance by Silver St. Cloud.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine/Very Fine (7.0)
Condition Details
Moderate spine stress with color-breaking ticks; corner blunting at the top right and bottom left; light surface scuffing visible on the orange background; slight edge wear along the right-hand side of the cover.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $50 - $75; Graded (CGC 7.0): $120 - $160
Recent Sales
Recent sales for mid-to-high grade raw copies range from $45 to $80; CGC 9.8 copies have reached over $1,500 due to the popularity of the Rogers/Englehart run.
Grading Recommendation
Not highly recommended for grading in this specific sub-8.0 condition unless for personal preservation. A professional clean and press might push it to a 7.5/8.0, but the return on investment is marginal compared to higher-grade specimens.
Notable Features
Key issue featuring the first appearance of the modern-age Hugo Strange (his first appearance since the Golden Age). Iconic cover art by Marshall Rogers. Newsstand edition with UPC barcode.
Authentication Notes
Authentic 35-cent price point consistent with 1977 DC issues. Correct paper aging (off-white) and Newsstand UPC alignment. No signs of restoration or facsimile reprinting detected.