Adventure Comics presents DIAL H FOR HERO ##487
DC Comics • Adventure Comics Vol. 1
Writer
Marv Wolfman
Interior Artist
Carmine Infantino
Cover Artist
Ross Andru and Dick Giordano
Publication Date
November 1981
Cover Variant
Regular Edition (Direct Edition)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Features Chris King and Vicki Grant using the H-Dial to transform into new heroes. This issue includes transformations into Avatar, Crimson Star, Kismet, and Radiator. The concept of this era allowed readers to submit their own hero designs.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine (CGC 6.0)
Condition Details
Visible color-breaking spine stress ticks; corner blunting particularly on the top-left; slight edge wear along the right side; minor surface scuffing/soiling visible in the white areas; overall cover gloss remains decent but shows aging.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5 - $15 | Graded (estimated 6.0): $25 - $40
Recent Sales
Recent sales for raw mid-grade copies fluctuate between $4 and $12. Graded 9.8 copies can reach $100+, but mid-grade copies typically sell for near cover value plus a small collector premium.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of CGC/CBCS grading would exceed the current market value of a mid-grade (6.0) copy. Best kept in a fresh bag and board for personal collection.
Notable Features
Bronze Age DC key concept. Notable for the 'The Comic YOU Create!' marketing where fans submitted character designs and powers which were then used in the stories.
Authentication Notes
Authentic 1981 production. Correct DC 'bullet' logo placement, appropriate 60-cent price point for the era, and standard newsprint paper stock typical of early 80s DC issues.