The Brave and the Bold ##57
DC Comics • The Brave and the Bold Vol. 1
Writer
Bob Haney
Interior Artist
Ramona Fradon
Cover Artist
Ramona Fradon
Publication Date
January 1965
Cover Variant
Regular/A Cover
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
This is a major Silver Age key issue featuring the first appearance and origin of Rex Mason as Metamorpho the Element Man. The story introduces his supporting cast, including Sapphire Stagg, Simon Stagg, and Java. Rex is transformed into an elemental shape-shifter after being exposed to a radioactive meteorite in an Egyptian pyramid.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Good (CGC 2.0)
Condition Details
Heavy wear on the spine with significant color-breaking stress lines and chipping. Top left corner exhibits a severe blunt/crease. Bottom right corner is blunted with a signature or name written in ink ('R. Erwell'). Visible surface soiling, staining on the yellow background, and minor edge tears. Cover is likely fragile at the staples.
Estimated Market Value
Raw (ungraded): $150 - $225; Graded (CGC 2.0): $250 - $300
Recent Sales
High-grade copies (CGC 9.0+) sell for $5,000+; mid-grade (4.0-5.0) sell for $400-$600; low-grade (1.8-2.5) recently sold for $180-$240 depending on visual appeal.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading in this condition unless preservation is the priority. The visible ink writing on the cover and heavy spine damage will prevent a grade higher than 2.0-2.5, and grading fees would consume most of the value gain.
Notable Features
First appearance and origin of Metamorpho. First appearance of Sapphire Stagg, Simon Stagg, and Java. Part of DC's 'try-out' series which led to Metamorpho's own solo title.
Authentication Notes
The 12-cent price point and 'National Comics' logo are consistent with a 1965 DC publication. Paper aging/yellowing and wear patterns are consistent with authentic Silver Age newsprint stock.