Superman ##279
DC Comics • Superman Vol. 1
Writer
Cary Bates
Interior Artist
Curt Swan
Cover Artist
Nick Cardy
Publication Date
September 1974
Cover Variant
Regular/Direct Edition (pre-UPC/Standard)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Features a team-up between Superman and Batgirl (Barbara Gordon). The main story 'The Super-Cinderella!' involves a strange transformation where Batgirl is endowed with Kryptonian-level powers. They face off against the villainous Council of Five.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine (CGC 6.0)
Condition Details
Visible spine stress and small color-breaking ticks on left edge; minor corner blunting on top and bottom right; light edge wear and surface scuffing visible on the white border; slight discoloration/aging on the back-cover bleed through on bottom-right corner.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $15 - $25; Graded (CGC 6.0): $45 - $60; Graded (CGC 9.8): $400+
Recent Sales
Recent raw copies in similar mid-grade (VG/FN) sold for approximately $12-$20. High-grade CGC specimens (9.6+) have reached over $200 in 2023 auctions.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading unless for personal preservation. The estimated cost of grading ($30-$40) plus shipping would likely exceed the raw market value at this grade (approx. 6.0). A 'Press and Clean' might improve the score to a 7.0 but likely not enough for a significant ROI.
Notable Features
Bronze Age comic featuring a Superman and Batgirl team-up. Noted for its iconic Nick Cardy cover art. No UPC bar code (standard for the era).
Authentication Notes
Appears to be an authentic 1974 Bronze Age DC comic. Paper aging (tanning) on the edges is consistent with 50-year-old newsprint. Staple placement and 'Circle DC' logo are correct for the period.