Adventure Comics presents Dial H for Hero ##482
DC Comics • Adventure Comics Vol. 1
Writer
Marv Wolfman
Interior Artist
Don Heck
Cover Artist
Carmine Infantino and Dick Giordano
Publication Date
June 1981
Cover Variant
Regular/UK Price Variant
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
This issue features the modern revival of the 'Dial H For Hero' concept. Protagonists Chris King and Vicki Grant use a mystical H-Dial to transform into superheroes created by DC fans through a reader-submission contest. Key characters include fan-created heroes like The Fog and Trailblazer.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine (CGC 6.0)
Condition Details
Visible color-breaking spine stress/ticks (at least 4-5 along the spine), moderate corner blunting on the top right and bottom right, slight surface wear/scuffing on the orange background, and noticeable edge wear on the right side. The book appears slightly non-flat, suggesting light handling wear.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5 - $15 USD / Graded (9.0+): $40 - $65 USD
Recent Sales
Raw copies in mid-to-high grade typically sell for $10. High-grade (CGC 9.8) census copies can reach $150+, but this copy does not meet that threshold.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The estimated grade (6.0-7.0) does not justify the cost of grading fees and shipping, as the market value of a mid-grade copy is lower than the service cost.
Notable Features
Features the 15p UK price variant. Contains reader-created characters and provides the early 80s 'Dial H for Hero' lore. Not a major key, but a desirable issue for Bronze Age DC collectors and fans of the Dial H series.
Authentication Notes
The comic appears to be an authentic 1981 bronze age printing. The paper stock and ink saturation on the cover are consistent with DC's production during this era. The UK 15p price tag is printed, not a stamp, confirming it is a regional distribution variant.