The Brave and the Bold Introduces Metamorpho The Element Man ##57
DC Comics • The Brave and the Bold Vol. 1
Writer
Bob Haney
Interior Artist
Ramona Fradon
Cover Artist
Ramona Fradon
Publication Date
January 1965
Cover Variant
Regular/Direct
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
First appearance and origin of Rex Mason as Metamorpho the Element Man. Also introduces key supporting characters Sapphire Stagg and Simon Stagg. Rex Mason is transformed into Metamorpho after exposure to the Orb of Ra in an Egyptian pyramid.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good (CGC 4.0)
Condition Details
Moderate spine stress and cumulative color-breaking creases. Significant corner blunting on all four corners. Visible edge wear and small tears on the left spine edge. Surface soiling/staining evident in the yellow background areas and bottom right corner. Minor paper tanning on the exterior edges.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $150 - $225; Graded (CGC 4.0): $250 - $325
Recent Sales
Mid-grade copies (VG to VG/FN) have recently sold between $180 and $350 depending on eye appeal. High-grade (9.0+) copies frequently reach into the $1,500+ range.
Grading Recommendation
Yes, worth grading due to status as a major Silver Age key. A professional press and clean could likely elevate the current appearance to a 4.5 or 5.0 by removing surface dirt and flattening non-color breaking dents.
Notable Features
Major Key Issue: 1st Appearance of Metamorpho. 1st Appearance of Sapphire Stagg, Simon Stagg, and Java. Origin of Metamorpho.
Authentication Notes
Displays authentic 12-cent silver age paper stock and ink saturation. Proper DC National Comics logo and Comics Code Authority seal placement. Natural aging patterns consistent with mid-1960s newsprint.