Detective Comics #471
DC Comics • Detective Comics Vol. 1
Writer
Steve Englehart
Interior Artist
Marshall Rogers and Terry Austin
Cover Artist
Marshall Rogers and Terry Austin
Publication Date
August 1977
Cover Variant
Regular Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Part of the definitive Steve Englehart and Marshall Rogers run. This issue features the return of Hugo Strange (revealed as the strategist behind the scenes) and the continuation of the 'Strange Apparitions' storyline. It also features Silver St. Cloud and the transformation of Rupert Thorne.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine (CGC 8.0)
Condition Details
Moderate spine stress with minor color-breaking ticks; small impact blunting on the top right corner; slight shelf wear on bottom edge; minor surface scuffing visible on the black areas of the logo and Batman's cape; colors remain vibrant with a flat cover.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $65 - $100 | Graded (CGC 8.0): $150 - $180
Recent Sales
Recent 8.0 graded copies have sold between $140 and $175. High-grade 9.6 copies frequently exceed $450 due to the popularity of the Rogers/Englehart run.
Grading Recommendation
Worth grading if part of a set, but as a standalone, a professional press and clean might bump the grade to an 8.5 or 9.0, making it more profitable. Potential value increase of 50-70% after grading.
Notable Features
Classic Marshall Rogers cover art; Key issue in the 1970s Batman revival; Bronze Age newsstand UPC barcode present; 'You could be in the Superman Movie' contest banner at the top.
Authentication Notes
The comic appears authentic with correct 35-cent price point for 1977, era-appropriate paper oxidation (visible at edges), and accurate DC Bullet logo alignment.