Strange Adventures #No. 205
DC Comics • Strange Adventures Vol. 1
Writer
Arnold Drake
Interior Artist
Carmine Infantino and George Roussos
Cover Artist
Neal Adams
Publication Date
October 1967
Cover Variant
Regular/Direct Edition (12-cent cover price)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
This issue features the first appearance and origin story of Boston Brand, better known as Deadman. The story, titled 'Who Has Been Lying in My Grave?', introduces the circus trapeze artist who is murdered during a performance and returns as a ghost to find his killer (the Hook).
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good+ (CGC 4.5) to Fine- (CGC 5.5)
Condition Details
Visible moderate spine stress and edge wear. The upper left corner near the DC logo shows slight blunting and color-breaking stress. Notable horizontal crease or fold near the center-left edge extending into the yellow area. Lower right corner shows minor rounding. The surface shows some light scuffing and minor soiling consistent with age, though colors remain relatively vibrant.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $350 - $550; Graded (CGC 5.0): $600 - $800; High Grade (9.2+): $3,000+
Recent Sales
Recent sales for mid-grade copies (4.0 - 6.0) have fluctuated between $400 and $900 depending on eye appeal. High-grade copies (8.0+) frequently command premiums over $1,500 due to the Neal Adams cover and key character debut.
Grading Recommendation
Yes, worth grading. This is a major Silver Age key issue. Even at a mid-grade (approx. 5.0), professional encapsulation secures its value and prevents further deterioration. A professional press and clean could likely jump this from a 4.5 to a 5.5 by mitigating the non-color-breaking surface indentations.
Notable Features
Major Key Issue: 1st Appearance of Deadman (Boston Brand); 1st Appearance of Rama Kushna. First DC work by legendary artist Neal Adams. Silver Age classic with iconic cover art.
Authentication Notes
Authentic Silver Age DC copy. Printing displays correct halftone patterns and 12-cent price point. Paper stock shows natural age-appropriate oxidation (tanning) on the edges. Staples appear original and show light oxidation consistent with the 1960s production era.