Detective Comics ##478
DC Comics • Detective Comics Vol. 1
Writer
Len Wein
Interior Artist
Marshall Rogers
Cover Artist
Marshall Rogers & Terry Austin
Publication Date
August 1978
Cover Variant
Regular/Newsstand Edition (UPC in box)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Part 1 of the 'The Coming of... Clayface III!' storyline. Features the first appearance of Preston Payne as Clayface III, who differs from previous versions by needing to touch others to survive, melting them in the process. Batman investigates a series of gruesome meltings.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine/Near Mint (CGC 9.0)
Condition Details
Minor spine stress/ticks visible along the left edge. Slight blunting on the bottom right corner. Minor cover scuffing visible on the dark green/black background areas. Overall great color vibrancy and flat presentation.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $35 - $60; Graded (CGC 9.0+): $120 - $180
Recent Sales
Recent eBay sales for raw mid-to-high grade copies range from $30 to $55. CGC 9.4+ copies have reached $200+.
Grading Recommendation
Moderate Recommendation. At a 9.0, the cost of grading may equal the value added. However, if a professional press/clean brings it to a 9.4 or 9.6, the value will increase significantly. This is a highly sought-after Bronze Age run.
Notable Features
First appearance of Preston Payne (Clayface III). Iconic Marshall Rogers cover and art. Features the Bronze Age DC logo and 35-cent price point. Newsstand edition with UPC barcode.
Authentication Notes
Appearance is consistent with authentic 1978 DC Bronze Age newsprint stock. Ink saturation on the 'Clayface is Back!' orange text looks correct for the era. Staple placement appears original.