The Flash ##304
DC Comics • The Flash Vol. 1
Writer
Cary Bates
Interior Artist
Don Heck
Cover Artist
Don Heck
Publication Date
December 1981
Cover Variant
Regular Edition / Newsstand (UPC box contains price/date info)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Barry Allen (The Flash) faces off against a new villain called Colonel Computron. The story, titled 'The Name of the Game is Death!', involves a video game creator who seeks revenge using a high-tech suit that can digitize objects and people. This issue is part of the Bronze Age run of The Flash.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine (CGC 8.0)
Condition Details
Moderate spine stress marks (ticks), slight corner blunting on the top and bottom left, minor surface wear visible on the dark areas of the cover, and possible light yellowing of the page edges (tanning) typical for 1980s newsprint.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5.00 - $12.00; Graded (CGC 8.0): $35.00 - $50.00
Recent Sales
Recent raw copies in similar mid-to-high grade condition have sold between $4 and $10. High-grade (CGC 9.6+) copies occasionally reach $70-$100.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The costs of grading (CGC/CBCS) and shipping would likely exceed the market value of the book in this condition. It is a great reader/collector copy for a personal set.
Notable Features
Features the first appearance of Colonel Computron (Basil Nurblin). The cover art is notable for its 8-bit, early computer era aesthetic reflecting the early 1980s tech boom.
Authentication Notes
The item appears to be an authentic 1981 newsstand edition. The paper stock shows natural aging, and the DC 'bullet' logo and price markings (60 cents) are consistent with DC's production standards for late 1981.