Detective Comics ##471
DC Comics • Detective Comics Vol. 1
Writer
Steve Englehart
Interior Artist
Marshall Rogers
Cover Artist
Marshall Rogers and Terry Austin
Publication Date
August 1977
Cover Variant
Newsstand Edition (UPC barcode present)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Part of the legendary Steve Englehart and Marshall Rogers run. This issue features the revival of the Golden Age villain Hugo Strange. Strange learns Batman's secret identity and attempts to auction it off to other villains. The story is highly regarded for its noir influence and modernizing classic Batman elements.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine/Very Fine (CGC 7.0)
Condition Details
Moderate spine stress and minor color-breaking ticks along the left edge. Visible blunting and minor rounding on the top and bottom right corners. Light surface wear on the cover gloss and a small thumb crease near the bottom right. The spine appears mostly straight but shows characteristic wear for the age.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $30 - $55; Graded (CGC 7.0): $80 - $110; Graded (CGC 9.8): $1,000+
Recent Sales
Raw copies in similar mid-to-high grade condition have recently sold between $35 and $60. High-grade 9.8 copies command a significant premium due to the popularity of the Rogers/Englehart run.
Grading Recommendation
Not highly recommended for grading in current condition unless for personal preservation. A 7.0 grade may not offset the costs of grading fees and shipping. If a professional press/clean could bring it to an 8.5+, it may be worth it.
Notable Features
Hugo Strange appearance. Iconic Marshall Rogers cover art. This issue is part of the 'Strange Apparitions' story arc, considered one of the most influential Batman runs of the Bronze Age.
Authentication Notes
The item shows authentic 1970s newsprint aging. The 35-cent price point, CC logo, and UPC barcode are consistent with DC output from August 1977. No signs of restoration are visible in the image.