The Vegas Comic Kingdom
The Flash, Vol. 2 - #15 (Key - Pied Piper!)
The Flash, Vol. 2 - #15 (Key - Pied Piper!)
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Publisher: DC Comics
Release Date: August 1988
Creative Team: Written by William Messner-Loebs, Pencils by Greg LaRocque, Inks by Larry Mahlstedt
Shift into high gear with The Flash, Vol. 2 #15, a landmark issue from Wally West’s early tenure as the Scarlet Speedster! Released in August 1988, this comic marks the debut of the Pied Piper (Hartley Rathaway) as a reformed ally, adding a key character moment to Wally’s post-Crisis on Infinite Earths journey. William Messner-Loebs’ engaging script teams with Greg LaRocque’s crisp, kinetic artwork to deliver a blend of high-speed action and heartfelt redemption. With its iconic cover and pivotal storyline, Flash, Vol. 2 #15 is a Bronze-to-Modern Age treasure for fans and collectors chasing Wally’s defining run.
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Key Character Milestone: #15 features the first appearance of the Pied Piper as a reformed hero, a significant shift for this classic Rogue that boosts its status as a collectible key issue.
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Wally West’s Era: This issue deepens Wally’s role as the Flash, showcasing his growth and alliances in the post-Crisis DC Universe—ideal for collectors of character-driven arcs.
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Creative Transition: William Messner-Loebs takes the reins, bringing a fresh voice to the series, paired with Greg LaRocque’s dynamic art, marking a notable shift from the earlier Mike Baron/Jackson Guice run.
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Undervalued Gem: While not as hyped as #1 or later first appearances, #15’s key moment and early-series significance make it a sleeper hit with strong potential.
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Low to Mid Grades (VG 4.0 - FN 6.0): Typically range from $5-$15, appealing to readers or budget collectors seeking key issues.
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High Grades (VF 8.0 - NM 9.4): Fetch $20-$40+, with NM copies trending upward as collectors recognize its key status and condition becomes a premium for late 1980s comics.
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Market Surge: Wally West’s prominence in modern DC (Infinite Frontier, 2021-present) and his media legacy (CW’s The Flash, 2014-2023), alongside growing interest in supporting characters like Pied Piper, have elevated Vol. 2’s profile. Key early issues like #15 are gaining momentum, with high-grade copies showing steady appreciation.
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Comparable Sales: Early Vol. 2 keys (e.g., #91, first Impulse) in CGC 9.8 exceed $100, while #15 in CGC 9.8 can hit $60-$80 at auction due to its Pied Piper significance. NM raw copies often sell for $35-$50, with potential for growth.
With Wally West racing through comics and pop culture, and the Pied Piper’s fanbase growing (thanks to his CW appearances and comic relevance), The Flash, Vol. 2 #15 is a lightning bolt of opportunity. This key issue offers historical weight, a pivotal character moment, and untapped potential—perfect for fans or investors looking to snag a piece of the Speedster’s legacy before it speeds off the market. Don’t wait—this one’s picking up pace!
