Batman's Detective Comics ##471
DC Comics • Detective Comics Vol. 1
Writer
Steve Englehart
Interior Artist
Marshall Rogers
Cover Artist
Marshall Rogers & Terry Austin
Publication Date
August 1977
Cover Variant
Regular/Direct Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Features the story 'The Dead Yet Live' and 'The Curse of the Clayface'. This issue is a key Bronze Age book featuring the first appearance of the Silver Age/Modern version of Clayface (Matt Hagen, though specifically the modern era Preston Payne origin/iteration). It is part of the iconic Englehart/Rogers run.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good (CGC 4.0)
Condition Details
Significant vertical color-breaking crease running through the center of the cover. Spine has multiple stress lines and ticks. Visible corner blunting and edge wear. Minor staining/soiling and surface scuffing particularly visible in dark ink areas.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $20.00 - $35.00; Graded (CGC 4.0): $50.00 - $65.00
Recent Sales
Recent eBay sales for mid-grade raw copies range between $25 and $40, while high-grade CGC 9.4+ copies command over $250.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The major vertical crease significantly limits the grade ceiling (likely maxing out at a 4.0-5.0). The cost of grading fees would likely exceed the added value for this specific copy.
Notable Features
First appearance of the third Clayface (Preston Payne). Notable for the classic Rogers/Austin art style that defined Batman for decades. Features a UPC barcode (35-cent price point).
Authentication Notes
Displays authentic 1977 DC production qualities including newsprint interior pages, distinct halftone dot patterns in the coloring, and period-accurate staple placement. No signs of restoration or reproduction detected.