Batman: The Killing Joke ##1 (One-Shot)
DC Comics • Batman: The Killing Joke
Writer
Alan Moore
Interior Artist
Brian Bolland
Cover Artist
Brian Bolland
Publication Date
March 1988 (Estimated for 1st print)
Cover Variant
Regular (Direct Edition)
Printing
First Printing (Note: Identified by green title lettering; subsequent printings changed title colors to yellow, pink, blue, etc. This specific image appears to have the 'green' first printing trade dress).
Comic Description
A definitive Joker origin story. The Joker escapes Arkham and attempts to drive Commissioner Gordon insane by shooting and paralyzing Barbara Gordon (Batgirl). Features the transition of Barbara Gordon into the Oracle persona.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine- (CGC 7.5)
Condition Details
Surface wear visible; minor blunting on the bottom right corner; some light spine stress/ticks; the comic appears to be slightly curved or 'bowed' inside the polybag which may lead to light horizontal surface creasing; faint scuffing on high-gloss black areas.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $60 - $85 | Graded (9.0+): $150 - $250
Recent Sales
First printings in mid-to-high grade raw condition typically sell between $70 and $100. CGC 9.8 copies have recently sold for upwards of $500.
Grading Recommendation
Worth grading only if it can achieve a 9.6 or higher following a professional press and clean. At its current estimated grade of 7.5-8.0, the cost of grading may exceed the value added.
Notable Features
First Printing (Green Title); Iconic cover of Joker with camera; Origin of The Joker; Paralyzation of Barbara Gordon; prestige format (thick cardstock cover).
Authentication Notes
The high-gloss finish and cardstock cover are consistent with 1988 prestige format standards. No visible indicators of a reprint or facsimile are present beyond the characteristic green title of the first printing.