BATMAN: THE DARK KNIGHT RETURNS ##1
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
March 1986
Cover Variant
Regular/A Cover (Direct Edition)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
A seminal masterpiece where an aging Bruce Wayne comes out of retirement to reclaim Gotham City from a new gang of criminals known as the Mutants. Introduces Carrie Kelley as the new Robin.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Near Mint (9.4)
Condition Details
The cover displays excellent gloss and deep color saturation. There are minor blunting visible on the top right corner and very slight spine stress marks characteristic of the prestige format's cardstock. No significant color breaks or creasing visible through the polybag.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $150 - $225; Graded (CGC 9.4): $250 - $300; Graded (CGC 9.8): $700 - $1,000+
Recent Sales
Recent 2024 sales for raw copies in similar High Grade range from $175 to $210. 9.8 CGC copies consistently reach $850+.
Grading Recommendation
Yes, worth grading if the back cover and spine are as clean as the front. This is a top-tier Copper Age key. A professional press could potentially push this to a 9.6 or 9.8, significantly increasing liquidity and value.
Notable Features
First appearance of Carrie Kelley (Robin). Iconic 'lightning bolt' cover. First issue of the prestige format limited series that redefined Batman.
Authentication Notes
First printing established by the $2.95 cover price. Authentic cardstock texture and characteristic blue DC logo of the era are present.