Batman: Detective Comics ##1
DC Comics • Detective Comics Vol. 2 (The New 52)
Writer
Tony S. Daniel
Interior Artist
Tony S. Daniel
Cover Artist
Tony S. Daniel
Publication Date
November 2011
Cover Variant
Regular Cover (Cover A)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
This issue relaunched the iconic Detective Comics series as part of DC's New 52 initiative. The story features Batman hunting the Dollmaker, a new villain. It is famously known for the shocking ending where The Joker has his face surgically removed by the Dollmaker, a plot point that set the stage for the 'Death of the Family' crossover.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Near Mint (9.4)
Condition Details
The book appears to be in excellent condition with sharp corners and a flat cover. There is a very minor spine tick visible near the top staple and slight blunting on the bottom right corner. No major color-breaking creases are evident through the bag.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $30 - $50; Graded (CGC 9.8): $120 - $160
Recent Sales
Raw copies in high grade recently sell for approximately $35-$45. CGC 9.8 copies routinely sell in the $140 range though prices fluctuate with Joker-related media releases.
Grading Recommendation
Worth grading if it can achieve a 9.8. Professional pressing is recommended to remove minor surface ripples or non-color breaking ticks to ensure the highest possible grade. If it appears lower than a 9.6, the cost of grading may outweigh the value increase.
Notable Features
First appearance of the Dollmaker (Barton Mathis). Key ending featuring Joker's face removal. Part of the first wave of The New 52. Direct Edition indicated by the barcode.
Authentication Notes
Authentic first printing identifiable by the $2.99 cover price and the specific barcode suffix '00112' (Issue 001, Cover 1, Printing 2 - however, for New 52, 11 usually indicates the first print batch for this specific SKU).