DC Retroactive: The Flash - The '70s ##1

DC ComicsDC Retroactive: The Flash - The '70s

DC Retroactive: The Flash - The '70s

Writer

Cary Bates

Interior Artist

Benito Gallego, Sal Buscema

Cover Artist

Benito Gallego

Publication Date

September 2011

Cover Variant

Regular/Direct Edition

Printing

First Printing

Comic Description

A throwback story written by legendary Flash writer Cary Bates, set during Barry Allen's 1970s era. The Flash faces off against Gorilla Grodd. This issue also includes a reprint of 'The Creature of the Black Hole' from The Flash #235 (1975) by Cary Bates and Irv Novick.

Condition & Value

Condition Grade

Very Fine/Near Mint (CGC 9.0)

Condition Details

Moderate spine stress visible near the lower-mid section; slight blunting on the top left corner; minor edge wear along the top; the presence of a price sticker ($4.99) on the top right impact surface, though this may be common for modern display issues; minor surface scuffs visible on the plastic sleeve and cover gloss.

Estimated Market Value

Raw: $3 - $8; Graded (9.8): $35 - $50

Recent Sales

Recent eBay sales for raw copies range from $2.50 to $9.00 depending on condition. High-grade 9.8 copies occasionally sell for $40 plus shipping.

Grading Recommendation

Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of grading (approx. $25-$40) exceeds the market value of the book. It is a modern 'tribute' issue with high supply and relatively low collector demand compared to Bronze Age keys.

Notable Features

Part of the 'DC Retroactive' event which paired classic writers with modern artists to create era-authentic stories; features an original story plus a classic 1970s reprint; Direct Edition with barcode; $4.99 price point.

Authentication Notes

Authentic modern comic. High-quality semi-glossy cover stock; barcode correctly identifies issue 00111; DC 'Super Stars' circle logo used as a graphic design element consistent with the Retroactive line.

Scanned on 6/25/2026