The Flash ##291
DC Comics • The Flash Vol. 1
Writer
Cary Bates
Interior Artist
Don Heck
Cover Artist
Dick Giordano
Publication Date
November 1980
Cover Variant
Regular/Direct Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Barry Allen (The Flash) battles the villain Sabertooth (not to be confused with the Marvel character Victor Creed). The issue also features a 'Firestorm' backup story titled 'The Ice-Nightmare of Killer Frost!', featuring Ronnie Raymond and Professor Stein.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine- (CGC 7.5)
Condition Details
Visible minor spine stress marks (ticks), slight corner blunting on the bottom right and top left, minor surface wear to the purple background areas, and slight horizontal edge wear along the top.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5 - $12; Graded (CGC 9.8): $75 - $110
Recent Sales
Raw copies in similar mid-to-high grade typically sell for $6-$10 on platforms like eBay. Graded 9.6-9.8 copies occasionally reaching $80+.
Grading Recommendation
Not generally worth professional grading unless it is a personal favorite or if it would likely grade at 9.8 (which this likely will not due to spine ticks). The cost of grading exceeds the current market value of the book in this condition.
Notable Features
Features a Firestorm backup story. Distinguished by the DC 'bullet' logo and the 50 cent price point. This is a Direct Edition as indicated by the blank/striped UPC barcode area used during that era.
Authentication Notes
The comic displays authentic 1980s DC printing characteristics, including the specific 'striped' UPC box found on direct market copies of this period and expected paper oxidation (slight off-white tint) consistent with age.