Batman #No. 296
DC Comics • Batman Vol. 1
Writer
David Vern Reed
Interior Artist
Sal Amendola and Vince Colletta
Cover Artist
Sal Amendola and Al Milgrom
Publication Date
February 1978
Cover Variant
Regular/A Cover (Direct Edition/UPC)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Features the story 'The Sinister Strawman!' The Scarecrow (Jonathan Crane) escapes from Arkham Asylum and attempts to utilize a new fear toxin. Batman must overcome his own induced phobias to stop the villain's rampage.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine/Very Fine (CGC 7.0)
Condition Details
Moderate spine stress and small color-breaking ticks along the spine. Visible corner blunting at the top right and bottom right. Slight edge wear on the left side. Minor surface scuffing visible on the dark background of the cover.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $20 - $35; Graded (CGC 9.0+): $80 - $120
Recent Sales
Recent sales for mid-to-high grade raw copies fluctuate between $25 and $40. High-grade CGC 9.6/9.8 copies have reached over $200 in peak auction settings.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading unless a high-grade estimate (9.6+) is expected after a press. The current estimated grade of 7.0 makes the cost of grading higher than the market value increase.
Notable Features
Bronze Age Scarecrow appearance. Features the iconic 'DC Bullet' logo. Contains a UPC barcode, designating it for mass-market retail.
Authentication Notes
Appears authentic with period-accurate 35-cent price point and DC logo. Color registration and staple placement are consistent with late 1970s DC production standards.