Batman ##500
DC Comics • Batman Vol. 1
Writer
Doug Moench
Interior Artist
Jim Aparo
Cover Artist
Kelley Jones
Publication Date
October 1993
Cover Variant
Regular Edition (Direct)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
A landmark issue in the Knightfall saga. Jean-Paul Valley (Azrael) fully assumes the mantle of Batman and debuts his new, technologically advanced armored Batsuit. He engages in a final brutal confrontation with Bane, ultimately defeating the man who broke Bruce Wayne.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine (CGC 8.0)
Condition Details
Minor spine stress visible along the left edge, slight blunting on the bottom right corner, and minor surface wear typical of a gloss cover from this era. Overall flat with good color. It should be noted that the collector cover (die-cut/foil) was the mass-market version, making this standard direct edition slightly less common but generally valued similarly.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5 - $10; Graded (9.8): $50 - $70
Recent Sales
Recent eBay sales for raw copies range from $3 to $12 depending on condition. Graded 9.8 copies have recently settled in the $60 range.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The costs of grading usually exceed the market value of the book in this condition. Only 9.8 candidates are generally worth the investment for this issue.
Notable Features
Knightfall Part 19. First appearance of Azrael's full 'Az-Bats' blue and gold armor. Features a wraparound cover by Kelley Jones. This is the 'Standard' direct edition, which lacks the die-cut foil outer wrap found on many copies.
Authentication Notes
Authentic 1990s DC stock. Colors are vibrant, and the trade dress matches known first print variations. No signs of restoration visible.