The Flash ##291
DC Comics • The Flash Vol. 1
Writer
Gerry Conway
Interior Artist
Don Heck
Cover Artist
Dick Giordano
Publication Date
November 1980
Cover Variant
Newsstand Edition (UPC barcode present)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Title: 'The Sabertooth is a Very Deadly Beast!' Barry Allen (The Flash) battles the villainous Sabertooth (not to be confused with the Marvel character). The issue also features a Firestorm back-up story titled 'The Case of the Gold-Fingered Felon!' as part of the 8 extra pages included.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good (CGC 4.0)
Condition Details
Moderate to heavy spine stress with color-breaking ticks; small piece missing at the bottom left corner near the barcode; visible cover creases and rounding of corners; general handling wear and minor soiling consistent with age; possible moisture ripples visible through the bag.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $3 - $8; Graded (9.8): $120+ (current condition estimate does not merit grading).
Recent Sales
Raw copies in low-to-mid grade typically sell for under $10. High-grade (CGC 9.8) copies range from $110 to $150 depending on market timing.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of grading (approx. $25-$40) exceeds the market value of the comic in its current condition (approx. 4.0). Grading is generally only profitable for this issue in 9.6 or 9.8 condition.
Notable Features
Includes a Firestorm backup feature; Newsstand edition with UPC barcode; Bronze Age DC branding with '8 Extra Pages' banner; features the villain Sabertooth (DC version).
Authentication Notes
Authentic period-correct 50-cent cover price; standard newsstand UPC barcode placement; Ben Day dots visible in color saturation; paper stock shows age-appropriate off-white/cream tones.