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
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Includes the lead story 'The Poison Pen Puzzle' featuring Batman. This Silver/Bronze Age transitional issue features Batman investigating a mystery involving an author's suicide and a sinister plot involving a giant pen. The issue also includes a Robin back-up story titled 'The Case of the Forged Face!'
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good (CGC 4.0)
Condition Details
Visible heavy creasing across the top right corner extending through the 'Detective' logo; significant spine stress with color-breaking ticks; general edge wear and corner blunting; a large price sticker is adhered directly to the polybag (which obscures technical surface flaws but suggests potential residue or sunlight exposure risk); significant color-breaking crease near the bottom left edge; overall surface wear and dullness.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $20.00 - $35.00; Graded (CGC 4.0): $60.00 - $85.00
Recent Sales
Recent eBay sales for this issue in mid-low grade (vG/FN range) fluctuate between $25 and $40. High-grade (CGC 9.4+) copies can reach over $300 due to the Neal Adams cover art.
Grading Recommendation
Not worth professional grading. The cost of CGC/CBCS grading plus shipping ($40-$60 total) would exceed the market value of the book in its current 4.0 condition. Better kept as a raw reader copy or a budget-friendly example of Neal Adams' work.
Notable Features
Iconic cover art by Neal Adams, who is credited with the modern, darker redesign of Batman. Features 'The Poison Pen Puzzle' storyline. Includes a Robin solo back-up story. 15-cent cover price variant.
Authentication Notes
The comic appears authentic with correct 15-cent DC period branding, aged paper appearance, and characteristic Neal Adams line work. No signs of restoration visible from the external photo.