Batman: The Killing Joke ##1 (One-Shot)
DC Comics • Batman: The Killing Joke
Writer
Alan Moore
Interior Artist
Brian Bolland (original colors by John Higgins)
Cover Artist
Brian Bolland
Publication Date
March 1988
Cover Variant
Regular/A Cover (First Printing identifies by Green title text on later prints, First Print is yellow and orange hue)
Printing
First Printing (Note: Yellow logo text with orange 'The' and Brian Bolland's name in yellow/orange indicates first print status. Later prints changed colors of the cover text)
Comic Description
A seminal one-shot graphic novel exploring the origin of the Joker through flashbacks. The Joker kidnaps Commissioner Gordon and shoots/paralyzes Barbara Gordon (Batgirl) in an attempt to prove that 'one bad day' can drive any man insane.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine- (CGC 7.5)
Condition Details
Visible moderate spine stress/ticks that may break color. Slight corner blunting on the top right and bottom right. Gloss appears mostly intact but some surface wear is visible through the bag. General shelf wear consistent with a 7.5 grade.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $60 - $85; Graded (9.0+): $150 - $250+ (Note: Grade significantly impacts value for this specific key)
Recent Sales
Recent NM raw copies have sold for $100-$120. Mid-grade copies (VF) currently trend between $60 and $80.
Grading Recommendation
Moderate. Professional pressing would likely improve the spine stress and surface flatulence. If a grade of 9.4 or higher can be achieved after pressing, it is worth grading for value preservation. In its current 7.5 state, grading costs may exceed the value added.
Notable Features
First printing. Iconic cover art by Brian Bolland. Origin of the Joker. Critical event: Barbara Gordon is paralyzed, leading to her transformation into Oracle. Key Copper Age title.
Authentication Notes
The logo color (yellow/orange) matches the 1988 first print run. The DC logo in the corner is the correct 'bullet' style for the era. Print quality on the camera lens detail appears consistent with genuine DC prestige format stock from the late 80s.