Detective Comics ##639
DC Comics • Detective Comics Vol. 1
Writer
Peter Milligan
Interior Artist
Jim Aparo
Cover Artist
Norm Breyfogle
Publication Date
December 1991
Cover Variant
Newsstand Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Part two of 'The Idiot Root' storyline. Batman travels to Brazil to investigate a mind-altering substance. He encounters 'The Idiot,' a bizarre villain who can telepathically manipulate the minds of others. The story features appearances by Robin (Tim Drake) and Commissioner Gordon.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good (CGC 4.0)
Condition Details
Significant spine stress throughout with color-breaking ticks. Heavy color breaking crease on the bottom left corner and lower spine edge. Corner blunting on all four corners. Front cover demonstrates surface wear and light scuffing. Top right edge has minor chipping. Spine shows possible alignment lean.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $1.00 - $3.00 | Graded (estimated 4.0): $15.00 - $20.00
Recent Sales
Recent sales for raw Near-Mint copies average $5-$8. Low-grade copies like this frequently sell in dollar bins or as filler in bulk lots. Mid-grade newsstand copies typically sell for approximately $2.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of the grading fee significantly exceeds the market value of the comic, especially given the visible heavy spine damage and corner creasing. Best kept as a reader copy or in a basic bag and board for personal collection.
Notable Features
Newsstand edition (identified by the barcode in the lower right). Part 2 of a 4-part crossover story appearing in Batman and Detective Comics titled 'The Idiot Root'. Classic Norm Breyfogle cover art.
Authentication Notes
Authentic copper age comic. Paper stock appears consistent with 1991 DC standards (pulp interior). UPC barcode is correctly formatted for the era newsstand distribution. Ink saturation and logo placement match known first printings.