Detective Comics ##398
DC Comics • Detective Comics Vol. 1
Writer
Frank Robbins
Interior Artist
Gil Kane
Cover Artist
Neal Adams
Publication Date
April 1970
Cover Variant
Regular/Direct Edition (15 cent price point)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Features the story 'The Poison Pen Puzzle.' Batman investigates a mysterious threat involving a giant pen. Key characters include Batman (Bruce Wayne) and Robin (Dick Grayson) in a backup story. This issue is part of the transition into the darker, more atmospheric Neal Adams era of Batman.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good (CGC 4.0)
Condition Details
Visible color-breaking spine stress ticks; significant corner blunting at bottom left; a secondary retailer price sticker is adhered directly to the bag or potentially the cover (top right); general cover scuffing and minor surface wear visible through the polybag.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $20.00 - $35.00; Graded (CGC 4.0): $60.00 - $85.00
Recent Sales
Recent mid-grade copies (VG/FN) have sold in the $30-$50 range. A CGC 9.4 recently sold for over $250, but low-to-mid grade raw copies are consistently found around the $25 mark.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The costs of grading/shipping would likely exceed the final market value of a 4.0 specimen. Best kept as a raw reader or collection filler.
Notable Features
Neal Adams cover art; Silver/Bronze age crossover period; includes a Robin backup story titled 'The Grade-A Crimes!'
Authentication Notes
The coloring, font styles, and DC logo (Circular 15c) are consistent with legitimate 1970 production. No signs of reprint or counterfeit noted; the sticker on the top right is a modern secondary market price tag.