Batman ##454
DC Comics • Batman Vol. 1
Writer
Peter Milligan
Interior Artist
Kieron Dwyer
Cover Artist
Mike Mignola
Publication Date
September 1990
Cover Variant
Regular Edition (Direct)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Part 3 of 3 of the 'Dark Knight, Dark City' storyline. Batman faces the Riddler, who has orchestrated a series of gruesome, occult rituals involving the history of Gotham City and a demon named Barbathos. This story is considered a high-point for the Riddler's characterization, depicting him as more lethal than his usual persona.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine/Near Mint (CGC 9.0)
Condition Details
Visual inspection shows light spine stress marks, minor corner blunting on the top right, and some slight surface scuffing visible on the dark areas of the cover. The bagged image shows some glare that may obscure minor ripples, but the comic appears largely flat and well-preserved.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $10 - $20; Graded (9.8): $75 - $100
Recent Sales
Raw copies in similar condition typically sell for $12-$15 on eBay. Graded 9.8 copies have recently sold in the $85 range.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading unless a 9.8 is guaranteed. The cost of grading ($30+) exceeds the raw market value, and the current visible spine ticks likely cap the grade at 9.2 or 9.4, where the value increase is negligible.
Notable Features
Final chapter of the 'Dark Knight, Dark City' arc; Iconic cover art by Hellboy creator Mike Mignola; Significant lore established regarding the foundations of Gotham and the demon Barbathos (which was later utilized by Grant Morrison in his Batman run).
Authentication Notes
The comic displays standard DC paper stock from the early 90s. The 'Batman' logo and DC bullet are correctly positioned. The presence of the Batman illustration in the UPC box indicates this is a Direct Edition copy.