Detective Comics #21 (1938) — Comic Book Value
Detective ComicsWhat Detective Comics #21 (1938) is worth — ungraded and CGC graded (6.0, 8.0).
Detective Comics #21 (1938) value — Ungraded $1,955 · Grade 6.0 $8,963. Prices updated August 2026.
Real sold prices per grade — the Grade 6.0 premium on this card is 4.6× raw.
Monthly CIB value, based on sold comps.
See the actual sold listings on eBay ↗Live on eBay right now
Which version do you have?
For the lowest cost to own Detective Comics #21, grab the Combo-Pack for $5. The Standard ($1955) and Newsstand ($11) versions offer significantly higher value, reflecting better condition or rarity compared to the basic Standard ($3). Buyers prioritizing investment or display should pay for the Standard or Newsstand, while those seeking a quick, affordable piece should opt for the Combo-Pack.
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Price data verified against · 1
Item details
- Series
- Detective Comics
- Publisher
- DC
- Issue
- #21
- Key issue
- No
- Release date
- November 1, 1938
Detective Comics #21 (1938) comic value
An ungraded copy of Detective Comics #21 (1938) averages around $1955. A CGC 6.0 runs about $8963, and a CGC 8.0 commands null.
What drives the price
Grade is everything in comics — spine ticks, page color, and restoration decide the number, and the jump from raw to high grade can be 10×+. Key issues (first appearances, origins, deaths) carry the biggest premiums, and early printings beat reprints.
Price guide
Sold values by grade vs. what sellers ask today
| Condition | Value | Based on |
|---|---|---|
| Ungraded | $1,955 | eBay sold comps |
| Grade 6.0 | $8,963 | eBay sold comps |
| Live asking — low / typical / high | $10 / $490 / $11,200 | 20 live eBay listings ↗ |
Market check: As of July 18, 2026, 20 live eBay listings ask $10.00–$11,200.00 (median $490.00).
Frequently asked questions
- What is the estimated value range for this comic?
- Ungraded copies start at $1955, but a Grade 6.0 copy is valued significantly higher at $8963.
- How does the condition affect the price of this issue?
- The difference between ungraded and a Grade 6.0 copy shows a substantial price increase, highlighting the importance of grading.
- Is Detective Comics #21 a good investment?
- Based on the price differential between conditions, this issue shows strong resale potential for collectors.