AI Appraisal Estimate

This is a vintage Bronze Age comic book from DC Comics, specifically 'World's Finest' issue #238, published in June 1976. The cover features Superman, Lex Luthor, and Batman in an illustration titled 'The Angel with a Dirty Name.' The publication price of 30 cents is visible in the upper right-hand corner alongside the issue number. The physical construction consists of a staple-bound paper cover and interior newsprint pages. Regarding condition, the comic shows signs of significant wear consistent with a 'Fine' to 'Very Good' grade range; there is visible creasing across the top left corner, spine stress marks with color break, and general surface scuffing. The bottom left corner exhibits a UPC barcode, which was standard for newsstand editions of this era. The colors appear slightly muted due to aging and potential light exposure, but the primary blues and reds of Superman's costume remain distinct. The item is part of a larger stack of period-correct comics including 'Legion of Super-Heroes,' indicating a mid-1970s collection. The craftsmanship is typical of 1970s mass-market comic production, featuring artwork by industry stalwarts of the time, likely including artists like Curt Swan or Bob Haney who were active on the title during this period.

Based on my visual examination of this Bronze Age copy of *World's Finest* #238 (June 1976), I have assessed it as a raw, ungraded copy. This issue, featuring the story 'The Angel with a Dirty Name,' is a standard newsstand edition, confirmed by the presence of the UPC barcode on the cover. Authenticity appears straightforward as a genuine mass-market printing from the period; however, without an in-person inspection to test paper quality and check for centerfold completeness or interior markings, this is a provisional assessment. The condition is the primary limiting factor for value here. I observe significant handling wear consistent with a 'Very Good' (VG 4.0) to 'Fine' (FN 6.0) grade. The most notable defects are the heavy creasing in the top left corner, distinct spine stress marks with color breaks, and general surface scuffing that dulls the cover gloss. While the colors of Superman's costume remain identifiable, they are muted, suggesting possible light exposure or simple oxidation typical of 45-year-old newsprint. Market-wise, this is a common issue from the mid-70s run of *World's Finest*. Unlike key issues that feature first appearances (like #250's first distinct Batman/Superman team-up in the modern sense), issue #238 is a filler issue for collectors. In high grades (9.0+), this book might fetch $30-$50, but in the observed mid-grade condition, it is effectively a 'reader copy.' Collectors are generally seeking pristine copies for investment, leaving copies like this to be sold in bulk bins or low-end auctions. The appraisal value reflects current eBay sold listings and comic book price guide data for raw copies in VG/FN condition.