The Flash ##275
DC Comics • The Flash Vol. 1
Writer
Cary Bates
Interior Artist
Alex Saviuk and Don Heck
Cover Artist
Dick Giordano
Publication Date
July 1979
Cover Variant
UK Price Variant (12p)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
The 'Death of Iris West' begins here. A pivotal issue where Barry Allen's wife, Iris West, is murdered at a masquerade party by Professor Zoom (Reverse-Flash), who vibrated his hand into her brain. This event redefined the Silver Age Flash mythos.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine- (7.5)
Condition Details
Minor spine stress lines (color-breaking ticks visible along the spine), slight blunting of the top and bottom left corners. Mild edge wear on the right side. The overall surface gloss remains intact, but there is slight yellowing consistent with age.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $30.00 – $50.00; Graded (CGC 7.5+): $90.00 – $130.00 (The UK price variant can sometimes carry a small premium to specific collectors but generally tracks close to US values).
Recent Sales
Standard US editions in mid-to-high grade have recently sold between $25 and $60. High-grade 9.6 copies move for roughly $150-$200.
Grading Recommendation
Optional. While a major key issue (Death of Iris West), the 7.5 estimation makes it a 'borderline' candidate for grading costs versus value gain. A professional clean and press might push it to an 8.0, making it more viable.
Notable Features
Significant Key Issue: Death of Iris West. UK Price Variant (12p instead of 40c). Features appearances by Justice League members in costume at the party.
Authentication Notes
Appears authentic. Correct UK price layout for 1979; the barcode area is blank/placeholder as was standard for many UK arrivals. Ink saturation and paper aging are consistent with late Bronze Age DC production.