Detective Comics #647
DC Comics • Detective Comics Vol. 1
Writer
Chuck Dixon
Interior Artist
Tom Lyle
Cover Artist
Kevin Maguire
Publication Date
August 1992
Cover Variant
Regular Edition / Newsstand (Barcode)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
A significant key issue featuring the first appearance and origin of Stephanie Brown as Spoiler. She is the daughter of the villain Cluemaster and takes on the Spoiler mantle to 'spoil' her father's crimes. She later becomes Robin and eventually Batgirl.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine/Very Fine (CGC 7.0)
Condition Details
Visible moderate spine stress with color-breaking ticks; corner blunting on the bottom right; minor surface scuffing visible on the black areas of the cover; some edge wear along the right side; sticker residue or price tag on the UPC bar code area.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $30 - $45; Graded (CGC 9.8): $150 - $200; Graded (CGC 7.0): $40 - $55
Recent Sales
Raw copies in mid-to-high grade typically sell for $35 to $50 due to the key first appearance. High-grade newsstand editions command a slight premium over direct editions.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for grading in current condition. The visible spine ticks and corner wear likely cap the grade at 7.0-8.0. Professional pressing might improve it slightly, but the value increase wouldn't exceed grading fees unless it was a 9.6 or higher.
Notable Features
First appearance of Stephanie Brown (Spoiler). Newsstand edition (identified by barcode on front cover). Significant 90s key issue.
Authentication Notes
The comic appears authentic based on the paper aging, standard DC newsstand trade dress of the early 90s, and correct UPC placement for active newsstand distribution in 1992.