Batman ##431
DC Comics • Batman Vol. 1
Writer
Christopher Priest (credited as James Owsley)
Interior Artist
Jim Aparo
Cover Artist
George Pratt
Publication Date
March 1989
Cover Variant
Newsstand Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
The story 'The Wall' features Batman traveling to a remote village to investigate a series of murders involving a legendary master of martial arts. It explores Batman's own training and his limits as a fighter.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine- (CGC 7.5)
Condition Details
Visible spine stress marks (color breaking), minor corner blunting on the top right and bottom right, slight surface scuffing on the dark purple ink, and some yellowing/tanning of the interior pages visible at the edges.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $10 - $15; Graded (9.8): $90 - $120
Recent Sales
Recent raw newsstand copies in mid-to-high grade sold for approximately $12. CGC 9.8 copies have recently sold in the $100 range.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The condition appears to be in the 7.0-8.0 range due to spine ticks and corner wear. The cost of grading would likely exceed the final market value of the book at this grade level.
Notable Features
Newsstand edition (indicated by barcode). This issue is notable for its unique, painterly cover art by George Pratt which stands out from the traditional house style of the late 80s.
Authentication Notes
The book displays authentic late-80s DC newsstand production characteristics, including the specific paper stock (Baxter-like or newsprint), Ben-Day dots in the coloring, and period-accurate UPC barcode placement.