Batman: Hunt the Dark Knight #Book Three
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
August 1986
Cover Variant
Regular
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
The third chapter of the seminal Dark Knight Returns miniseries. Batman continues his return to a dystopian Gotham, facing off against the Joker on a live talk show and in an amusement park. Features Carrie Kelley as Robin.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine (CGC 8.0)
Condition Details
Visible moderate handling wear, minor blunting on the bottom right corner, and some slight reflections on the bag making a exact spine assessment difficult, but minor surface scuffing is typical for this prestige format matte black cardstock.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $30 - $50; Graded (9.6+): $150 - $250
Recent Sales
Recent 1st prints in mid-to-high grade raw condition typically sell for $40 on eBay. CGC 9.8 copies can exceed $400.
Grading Recommendation
Only worth grading if it can achieve a 9.6 or higher after a clean/press. Prestige format issues often have 'spine ticks' that are difficult to see in photos but lower the grade significantly.
Notable Features
Key issue featuring the iconic Joker vs Batman tunnel of love confrontation and the Joker's final exit from the DC universe (in this continuity). Higher original cover price of $2.95.
Authentication Notes
First printing confirmed by the $2.95 price point and specific matte cardstock. Later printings/trade paperbacks often change the cover layout or pricing.