Batman: The Killing Joke ##1
DC Comics • Batman: The Killing Joke
Writer
Alan Moore
Interior Artist
Brian Bolland
Cover Artist
Brian Bolland
Publication Date
March 1988
Cover Variant
Regular Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
The Joker escapes from Arkham Asylum and sets out to prove that any normal man can go insane after one bad day, targeting Commissioner Gordon and his daughter Barbara Gordon to make his point.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Near Mint- (CGC 9.2)
Condition Details
Very minor shelf wear, light spine stress, clean flat cover with sharp corners, no major creasing or tears observed through the protective bag and board.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $30 - $50. Graded (CGC 9.2): $80 - $120.
Recent Sales
Recent raw sales of Batman: The Killing Joke 1st print range from $35 to $60 depending on condition. High-grade 9.8 copies regularly sell for over $200.
Grading Recommendation
Worth grading if it can safely achieve a 9.4 or higher after professional pressing, but a 9.2 raw copy might not yield enough return after grading fees to justify the cost unless part of a larger submission.
Notable Features
Iconic cover art by Brian Bolland, origin of the Joker, tragic paralyzation of Barbara Gordon (Oracle), and one of the most critically acclaimed graphic novels in comic book history.
Authentication Notes
Appears authentic with proper DC bullet logo, correct color saturation, standard comic book paper stock, and clear typography consistent with original 1988 first printing copies.