BATMAN: THE DARK KNIGHT FALLS #Book Four
DC Comics • Batman: The Dark Knight Returns
Writer
Frank Miller
Interior Artist
Frank Miller and Klaus Janson
Cover Artist
Frank Miller and Lynn Varley
Publication Date
1986
Cover Variant
Regular
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
The epic conclusion to Frank Miller's seminal miniseries. Batman faces off against Superman in a brutal showdown in Crime Alley, featuring the famous 'Green Arrow' kryptonite assist. It ends with the faked death of Bruce Wayne and the beginning of a new underground movement.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Near Mint- (CGC 9.2)
Condition Details
The cover shows excellent gloss and deep black saturation. There are minor horizontal stress lines visible along the spine edge and slight blunting on the bottom right corner. Minimal surface scuffing is present, common for this high-ink cover stock.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $30 - $55; Graded (9.8): $250 - $350
Recent Sales
Recent eBay sales for raw copies in similar high-grade condition range from $35 to $50. CGC 9.8 copies consistently sell in the $300 range.
Grading Recommendation
Recommended if it can achieve a 9.6 or 9.8. This specific cover is prone to showing every minor scratch or fingerprint due to the heavy black ink. A professional clean and press could push this toward a 9.6.
Notable Features
Final issue of the series. Iconic cover art depicting silhouettes of Superman and Batman. Includes the climactic battle between the World's Finest. Square-bound prestige format.
Authentication Notes
Authentic first printing. Note the $2.95 cover price which is standard for the 1986 original release. The cardstock cover has the correct matte-to-gloss ratio typical of the period.