Gotham by Gaslight: A Tale of the Batman ##1
DC Comics • Gotham by Gaslight
Writer
Brian Augustyn
Interior Artist
Mike Mignola
Cover Artist
Michael Mignola
Publication Date
December 1989
Cover Variant
Regular Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Set in Victorian-era Gotham City in the year 1889, Bruce Wayne returns home after years abroad just as Jack the Ripper arrives in Gotham to begin a gruesome series of murders. Batman is framed for the crimes and must hunt down the real killer while clearing his own name.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Near Mint- (CGC 9.2)
Condition Details
The comic appears to be in very clean condition inside a protective plastic sleeve and backing board. Corners look sharp with minimal to no blunting visible, spine shows little to no stress ticks, and cover gloss appears well-preserved with no major creases or color-breaking flaws.
Estimated Market Value
Raw estimated value ranges from $40 to $80 depending on exact grade verification out of the bag. Graded CGC 9.2 to 9.4 values typically range from $100 to $150.
Recent Sales
Recent sales for high-grade raw copies hover around $50-$75, while CGC 9.2 to 9.4 graded copies have historically commanded between $90 and $140 based on market fluctuations.
Grading Recommendation
Professional grading by CGC or CBCS is worth considering if the book checks out at a 9.4 or higher upon closer inspection out of the bag. A press may not even be necessary given the clean appearance, potentially netting a solid return over raw pricing.
Notable Features
Widely regarded as the very first 'Elseworlds' graphic novel published by DC Comics, establishing the popular line of alternate-continuity stories. Features iconic artwork by Hellboy creator Mike Mignola.
Authentication Notes
Standard DC prestige format square-bound book from late 1989 with correct cover price ($3.95 US / $4.95 CAN), gloss stock, and proper DC bullet logo placement. No obvious signs of counterfeiting present.