Batwoman ##1
DC Comics • Batwoman Vol. 2 (The New 52)
Writer
Greg Rucka
Interior Artist
J.H. Williams III
Cover Artist
Stanley "Artgerm" Lau
Publication Date
January 2011
Cover Variant
Variant Cover (1:25 Retailer Incentive)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Kate Kane, an ex-military officer and wealthy heiress, takes on the mantle of Batwoman to fight crime in Gotham City. This issue begins the 'Hydrology' story arc following her debut in Detective Comics, featuring the search for a ghost-like figure kidnapping children.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Near Mint (9.4)
Condition Details
The comic appears to be in high-grade condition with sharp corners and vibrant colors. There is minor visible spine stress near the bottom staple and slight blunting on the top left corner visible through the polybag. The surface gloss is high. The presence of the retailer price sticker on the bag does not affect the grade but suggests a previous retail environment.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $60 - $85; Graded (CGC 9.8): $250 - $350
Recent Sales
Recent 2024 raw sales for this Artgerm variant average around $70-$80. CGC 9.8 copies have recently sold for approximately $325.
Grading Recommendation
Highly recommended for grading if the comic is confirmed to be 9.6 or 9.8 upon closer inspection. This specific Artgerm variant is highly collectible and sees a significant price jump when slabbed in high grades.
Notable Features
Features the iconic 1:25 incentive variant cover by Stanley Lau (Artgerm). This is a 'key' issue as it is the first solo series for Kate Kane (Batwoman) in the New 52 era. Includes the 'Taking It To The Next Level' promotional banner.
Authentication Notes
The high-quality cardstock used for these variants is consistent with DC's 2011 production. UPC barcode '76194130217200131' correctly identifies it as the variant edition (the '3' in the 13th digit/5-digit suffix indicates a variant).