Secret Origins Featuring The Batman vs. Mud Pack ##44
DC Comics • Secret Origins Vol. 2
Writer
Alan Grant
Interior Artist
Kevin Nowlan
Cover Artist
Kevin Nowlan
Publication Date
September 1989
Cover Variant
Regular (Direct Edition)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
This issue features the post-Crisis origin of the original Clayface (Basil Karlo) and details the formation of 'The Mud Pack,' a team consisting of the various Clayfaces (Karlo, Matt Hagen, Preston Payne, and Sondra Fuller). It serves as a prelude to the 'Mud Pack' storyline that concludes in Detective Comics #604-607.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine (CGC 6.0)
Condition Details
Visible color-breaking spine stress/ticks, blunting and wear on the upper right and bottom right corners, surface scuffing/wear visible on the purple background areas, and slight edge wear along the bottom. The book shows moderate handling consistent with an average read copy.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5 - $10 / Graded (9.8): $60 - $80
Recent Sales
Recent raw sales for this issue typically fluctuate between $3 and $12 depending on condition. 9.8 graded copies have sold in the $75 range within the last year.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The costs of grading ($25+) plus shipping exceed the market value for a copy in this mid-grade condition. It is a great reader copy or filler for a run.
Notable Features
Origin of Clayface I (Basil Karlo) updated for post-Crisis continuity. Direct edition with logo in the UPC area. Cross-over tie-in with Detective Comics.
Authentication Notes
The comic appears to be an authentic 1989 DC Comics publication. The paper stock and ink saturation are consistent with DC's output for late 80s 'Baxter' or higher-grade newsprint books.