From Gotham to Greatness: Ranking the 30 Best Batman Comics of All Tim

Gotham has always been a city of shadows, but no hero has ever shone brighter in the darkness than Batman. Since his debut in 1939, the Caped Crusader has starred in some of the most iconic, thought-provoking, and downright legendary stories in comic book history. Whether you’re a die-hard fan who’s been collecting Batman comic books since the golden age or someone just dipping your toes into the world of comic Batman adventures, there’s no denying the lasting impact of these tales.

In this blog, we’re diving cowl-first into the best Batman comics of all time—the ones that redefined the Dark Knight, shook up the DC Universe, and carved Bruce Wayne’s legacy into comic book stone. From brooding noir tales to high-octane Gotham showdowns, we’ve handpicked 30 essential Batman comic book issues, graphic novels, and milestones that every collector, reader, and Bat-nerd should experience at least once.

So buckle up, because whether you're here for the best Batman comic covers, essential Batman comics, or just looking for the best Batman comics to start with, this list has something for every kind of Bat-fan. Let’s head to the Batcave and begin the countdown.

Top 10 Most Expensive Batman Comics Ever Sold

Batman #1 (1940) – $2,220,000
Detective Comics #27 (1939) – $1,740,000
Detective Comics #140 – The Promise Collection (1948) – $456,000
Detective Comics #168 (1951) – $324,000
Detective Comics #33 (1939) – $288,000
Detective Comics #29 (1939) – $276,000
Detective Comics #31 (1939) – $174,340
Detective Comics #114 – Double Cover (1946) – $156,000
Detective Comics #225 (1955) – $138,000
Detective Comics #38 (1940) – $132,000

Top 5 Best Batman Comics to Collect

1. Batman #1 (1940)

Introduces the Joker and Catwoman, launching Batman’s solo series and setting the tone for the entire Bat-universe.

2. Detective Comics #33 (1939)

Features Batman’s origin story for the first time, including the death of his parents and his vow to fight crime.

3. Batman: The Dark Knight Returns #1 (1986)

Redefined Batman for the modern age with a darker, more mature tone; a cornerstone of graphic novel storytelling.

4. Detective Comics #38 (1940)

First appearance of Robin, establishing the sidekick dynamic and transforming Batman’s role in comic book history.

5. Batman #181 (1966)

Debut of Poison Ivy, a key character in Gotham’s rogues’ gallery with lasting cultural and collectible appeal.

Top 30 Best Batman Comics of All Time

30. Batman #37 (1946 DC)

Rank – Best Batman Comics: 30
Sale Price: $19,200
Sale Year: 2023
Grade: CGC 9.2
Sale Location: Goldin Auctions

Only a handful of Batman comic books capture the wild energy of Gotham’s Clown Prince of Crime quite like Batman #37. Released in the post-war boom of October–November 1946, this comic is pure Joker chaos—from his custom "Jokermobile" to his sky-soaring "Jokerplane." It’s a zany cover by Jerry Robinson that feels straight out of a golden age fever dream.

With just one copy graded higher on the CGC census, this comic book Batman issue has serious collector cred. And let’s be real—any comic that lets the Joker steal the spotlight this hard deserves a place among the top Batman comics. It's a gleaming gem from DC Comics Batman history that still makes fans grin… just maybe not as wide as the Joker.

29. Batman #8 (DC, 1941)

Rank – Best Batman Comics: 29
Sale Price: $24,600
Sale Year: 2022
Grade: CGC 8.5
Sale Location: Goldin Auctions

Sliding into the Golden Age with radioactive flair, Batman #8 brings us the first appearance of Professor Radium—a villain whose name sounds straight out of a sci-fi horror flick, and honestly, we love that. This 1941 issue isn’t just historically important; it's one of the Batman best comics for fans who appreciate early rogues beyond the usual suspects.

The standout feature? Fred Ray and Jerry Robinson’s mesmerizing “infinity cover”—an artistic loop of Batman punching through panels that feels both vintage and mind-bending. With only three known unrestored copies graded higher, this copy's white pages and bold colors make it a prized gem in comic books Batman history. A true Golden Age treasure that proves the Batman comic universe has always been ahead of its time.

28. Batman (1940-2011) #16

Rank – Best Batman Comics: 28
Sale Price: $27,000
Sale Year: 2022
Grade: CGC 8.5
Sale Location: ComicConnect

Batman #16 might not have the headline-grabbing first appearances of some other issues, but don’t be fooled—this book is a Batman comic book classic that captures the wartime spirit of early DC Comics. Released during a pivotal time in 1943, it features a patriotic cover where Batman and Robin promote the war effort—yes, even comic book Bruce Wayne was doing his part to punch fascism in the face.

What makes this issue stand out for collectors is its sharp storytelling and classic Golden Age energy. With a CGC 8.5 grade, it's among the highest quality examples floating around today. It’s a perfect slice of vintage Gotham that fans of Batman graphic novels and essential Batman comics love to spotlight. Plus, for anyone hunting down Batman in comics that reflect historical moments, this one’s a top-tier pick.

27. Batman (1940-2011) #5

Rank – Best Batman Comics: 27
Sale Price: $33,333
Sale Year: 2012
Grade: CGC 9.6
Sale Location: ComicConnect

You simply can’t talk about the best Batman comic runs without giving a massive nod to Batman #5. This 1941 issue is historic—it features the first-ever appearance of the Batmobile, and also gives us the earliest concept of the Batcave, back when it was just called a “secret underground hangar.” Vintage vibes at their finest.

With a near-pristine CGC 9.6 grade, this book isn’t just a collectible—it’s a holy grail. Golden Age art, classic detective drama, and a major milestone in the evolution of comic book Batman mythology. Whether you’re into Batman comic pages from the early days or assembling the essential Batman comics, this one should absolutely be on your radar.

26. Batman #181 (DC, 1940)

Rank – Best Batman Comics: 26
Sale Price: $41,001
Sale Year: 2021
Grade: CGC 9.6
Sale Location: ComicConnect

Here’s where things get dangerously seductive—Batman #181 introduced the world to the one and only Poison Ivy. Inspired by Hawthorne’s literature and blooming with ‘60s pop-art energy, Ivy quickly became one of the most enduring figures in Batman stories. With her mind-controlling plants and toxin immunity, she's equal parts eco-queen and femme fatale.

This particular copy is a stunner—CGC 9.6 with white pages, and only three known in higher condition. Infantino’s checkerboard banner and that iconic standoff cover with Batman, Robin, and Ivy? Absolutely unforgettable. With her complex relationships (hi, Harley), Ivy continues to thrive in the Batman comic world and beyond, making this one of the best Batman comic covers and most sought-after key issues in Batman dc comics history.

25. Batman #3 (DC, 1940)

Rank – Best Batman Comics: 25
Sale Price: $43,200
Sale Year: 2022
Grade: CGC 8.5
Sale Location: Goldin Auctions

Landing just a few issues into the Caped Crusader’s solo run, Batman #3 is peak Golden Age weirdness—in the best way. Released in 1940, this issue delivers early appearances from Catwoman (still called “The Cat” at the time!) and a delightfully bizarre Joker story that sets the tone for decades of criminal chaos. It’s vintage Batman comic book brilliance.

With its vibrant colors and offbeat storytelling, this CGC 8.5 copy is one of the finest survivors from Batman’s formative years. It’s a top pick for anyone chasing down top Batman comics with deep character roots, especially collectors who want to see Batman in comics when his world was still wild and unfiltered. A must-have for any serious Bat-archive.

24. DETECTIVE COMICS (1937-2011; 2016-) #37

Rank – Best Batman Comics: 24
Sale Price: $45,111
Sale Year: 2018
Grade: CGC 8.0
Sale Location: ComicConnect

Before Batman had his own title, he was running the streets of Gotham in the pages of Detective Comics—and Detective Comics #37 is a criminally underrated milestone. Published just a few months before Batman #1, this issue serves up moody noir art, clever mystery beats, and the kind of gritty Gotham atmosphere that would eventually define Batman graphic novels.

A CGC 8.0 grade for a 1939 relic like this is no joke. The pages are dripping with pulp tension, and it’s one of the final issues before Batman truly broke out on his own. If you’re diving into the best Batman comic series from the very beginning or exploring the earliest Batman storylines, this one definitely earns its spot. Call it vintage detective drama with a cape.

23. Batman #2 (DC, 1940)

Rank – Best Batman Comics: 23
Sale Price: $45,600
Sale Year: 2022
Grade: CGC 8.0
Sale Location: Goldin Auctions

Batman #2 doesn’t just ride on the momentum of the legendary debut—it cements it. This issue marks the second-ever appearance of the Joker, and wow, does it deliver on the villainy. With a wickedly bold cover by Bob Kane and Jerry Robinson, this book continues the development of the Clown Prince as one of the greatest threats in Batman comic books.

Graded CGC 8.0 and sitting among the top 10 unrestored copies out there, this issue is a serious trophy for vintage collectors. If you're tracing Batman storylines back to their twisted origins, Batman #2 is essential. It's a showcase of early Joker chaos that paved the way for decades of classic Batman comics madness.

22. Batman #10 (DC, 1940)

Rank – Best Batman Comics: 22
Sale Price: $48,301
Sale Year: 2025
Grade: CGC 9.2
Sale Location: ComicConnect

Catwoman fans, rejoice—Batman #10 is where Selina Kyle drops the alias "The Cat" and becomes the legend we now know as Catwoman. Nicknamed the “Princess of Plunder,” she returns in full disguise-mode glamour, toying with Batman and Robin while still dancing that line between foe and reluctant ally. This is comic Batman drama at its Golden Age finest.

The issue also includes the wild tale “The Isle That Time Forgot”, a pulpy time-travel romp complete with prehistoric beasts and a surprise twist ending: it’s all a movie stunt. Classic. It’s a rare blend of action, humor, and vintage camp that helped broaden Batman’s appeal to younger readers. If you’re on the hunt for the best Batman comics to start with, or looking for a glimpse into how early Batman graphic novels balanced grit with fun, this one absolutely stands out.

21. Detective Comics #32 (1937)

Rank – Best Batman Comics: 21
Sale Price: $50,022
Sale Year: 2014
Grade: CGC 9.2
Sale Location: ComicConnect

Before the Bat-Signal ever lit the sky, Detective Comics #32 helped shape the early identity of the Dark Knight—and it did so in the most controversial way possible. This 1939 (pre-Batman title) issue features one of the rarest sights in Batman comic history: Batman holding a gun. That’s right—the world’s most famously anti-gun vigilante takes aim in one of the earliest examples of a costumed superhero wielding a firearm in an original story.

This Fred Guardineer cover drips with pulp-style suspense, and the issue itself has become a white whale for collectors. It’s an eerie, gritty chapter in comic book Batman lore that shows just how much the character has evolved. For fans of deep-cut Golden Age material and early Batman comic pages, this one’s essential. It also raises the iconic question: when was the first Batman comic that truly defined his code? This issue is part of that answer.

20. Batman #50 – The Promise Collection Pedigree (DC, 1948)

Rank – Best Batman Comics: 20
Sale Price: $60,000
Sale Year: 2021
Grade: CGC 9.6
Sale Location: Heritage Auctions

With its blazing yellow cover and ultra-rare CGC 9.6 pedigree, Batman #50 is a standout in any Bat-collector’s vault. But it’s not just about condition—it’s about content. This issue gives us the return of Two-Face… sort of. Turns out it’s Harvey Dent’s butler donning the dual-toned face to commit crimes while his boss remains clueless, having supposedly been cured. Classic Golden Age twist.

What really makes this issue a fun gem in Batman comics is the subtle lore tweak—this is the first time the character is called Harvey Dent instead of Harvey Kent. Whether it was a typo or an intentional move to protect Clark Kent’s brand, it’s a fascinating footnote in DC comics Batman history. Add killer art by Bob Kane, Lew Schwartz, and Charles Paris, and you’ve got a true favorite for fans building their collection of best Batman comic covers and pivotal character moments in the Batman graphic novel canon.

19. Detective Comics #36 (DC, 1937)

Rank – Best Batman Comics: 19
Sale Price: $65,555
Sale Year: 2018
Grade: CGC 8.0
Sale Location: ComicConnect

Before Joker or Riddler, there was Hugo Strange—Batman’s first true arch-enemy, and he makes his sinister debut in Detective Comics #36. In this fog-drenched noir tale, Strange uses a smoke machine to shield his goons during their crimes, only to get outsmarted (and captured) by a still-young and unrefined Dark Knight. But like all good villains, Hugo promises vengeance—laying the foundation for decades of Batman comic book battles to come.

With a moody, high-impact cover and rich Golden Age storytelling, this issue is a cornerstone for anyone collecting essential Batman comics. And for fans of the Batman Arkham comic universe, this is where the Arkham City mastermind was truly born. It’s not just pulp history—it’s the start of something villainously beautiful.

18. Detective Comics #35 – Larson Pedigree (DC, 1940)

Rank – Best Batman Comics: 18
Sale Price: $66,000
Sale Year: 2018
Grade: CGC 9.2 (Conserved)
Sale Location: Heritage Auctions

Haunting and bold, Detective Comics #35 features one of the most chilling and unforgettable covers of the Golden Age: Batman wielding a hypodermic needle, silhouetted against the fog. Drawn by Bob Kane, this issue has become a cult favorite for collectors and routinely ranks among the top 25 most valuable comic Batman issues from that era.

This conserved Larson Pedigree copy boasts white pages and near-mint quality—making it a dream for pedigree hunters. While the interiors keep to gritty detective work, it’s the visual punch of the cover that cements this as one of the best Batman comic covers ever published. Whether you're a fan of the darker tone in Batman graphic novels or hunting down rare DC Batman comics, this one absolutely belongs in your vault.

17. Batman #6 (DC, 1940)

Rank – Best Batman Comics: 17
Sale Price: $70,150
Sale Year: 2025
Grade: CGC 9.6
Sale Location: ComicConnect

If there’s a single issue that nails the early Batman comic aesthetic, it’s Batman #6. Bright background? Check. Dramatic logo? Double check. Batman and Robin mid-action? Triple check. But beyond the standout cover, this issue delivers one of the wildest Golden Age stories ever: “The Clock Maker.” Yes, Batman goes head-to-head with a villain whose entire mission is punishing people for wasting time—because “people who waste valuable time are really enemies of mankind.” Seriously.

Written by Bill Finger, the Clock Maker was a short-lived but fascinating foe who brought big high-concept energy into Gotham. This CGC 9.6 copy is near-pristine and a shining example of how even the more eccentric tales from the Golden Age helped shape the world of comic books Batman still thrives in. For collectors chasing weird, rare, and fun moments in the best Batman comics of all time, this issue ticks all the boxes (pun totally intended).

16. Batman #121 (DC, 1959)

Rank – Best Batman Comics: 16
Sale Price: $72,000
Sale Year: 2023
Grade: CGC 9.2
Sale Location: Heritage Auctions

Cue the icy entrance—Batman #121 marks the first appearance of Mr. Freeze, originally known as Mr. Zero. This Silver Age classic introduced a villain who would eventually evolve into one of the most tragic and compelling characters in Batman graphic novels. From animated series to blockbuster films, Freeze’s legacy started right here.

With its crisp CGC 9.2 grade and vibrant mid-century charm, this issue is one of the most desirable Silver Age keys in DC Batman comics. It’s a reminder that the Bat-verse wasn’t just built on shadows—it also had room for cold-blooded science fiction, rogue experiments, and stylish blue villains with heartbreaking backstories. If you’re building a collection of the best Batman comic runs, this one is absolutely non-negotiable.

15. Detective Comics #66 (DC, 1942)

Rank – Best Batman Comics: 15
Sale Price: $72,000
Sale Year: 2024
Grade: CGC 9.2
Sale Location: Heritage Auctions

One word: Two-Face. Detective Comics #66 gave us the chilling origin of Harvey Dent, one of Batman’s most psychologically complex villains. Before the tragic acid splash that split his identity and his face, Dent was a respectable district attorney. Afterward? A coin-flipping criminal genius who would become a staple of Batman comic book lore for decades.

This high-grade CGC 9.2 copy is pure Golden Age power. The storytelling is sharp, dramatic, and filled with early hints of the duality themes that would later define some of the best Batman stories ever told. Whether you're chasing down essential Batman comics or building a lineup of iconic villain debuts, this one flips heads—literally and figuratively.

14. Batman #25 – The Promise Collection Pedigree (DC, 1944)

Rank – Best Batman Comics: 14
Sale Price: $78,000
Sale Year: 2021
Grade: CGC 9.4
Sale Location: Heritage Auctions

A true beauty from the renowned Promise Collection, Batman #25 represents wartime comics at their finest—bold, action-packed, and creatively ambitious. With one of the highest CGC grades available, this copy stands tall among top Batman comics in both condition and content. The cover art is dramatic and colorful, with Batman and Robin swinging into action with that oversized 1940s flair.

Inside, you'll find classic tales of justice, humor, and Golden Age charm. It may not feature a major first appearance, but its preservation and storytelling quality easily earn it a spot among the best Batman comic covers of its era. For collectors focused on pedigree, high-grade examples, and vintage appeal, Batman #25 is a cornerstone of comic Batman excellence.

13. Detective Comics #158 – The Promise Collection Pedigree (DC, 1950)

Rank – Best Batman Comics: 13
Sale Price: $96,000
Sale Year: 2021
Grade: CGC 9.6
Sale Location: Heritage Auctions

There’s rare… and then there’s Promise Collection rare. Detective Comics #158 is a phenomenal example of both high-grade preservation and vibrant storytelling from Batman’s Golden Age. At CGC 9.6, this book is a time capsule of everything that made mid-century Batman comic books irresistible—adventure, drama, and larger-than-life villains brought to life in glorious color.

This issue is often overlooked compared to first appearances, but it shines for its pedigree, condition, and sheer visual appeal. The story packs classic Gotham action, and for collectors who crave flawless books that also deliver on energy and historical weight, this one is a stealth essential in the world of comic book Batman.

12. Detective Comics #124 – The Promise Collection Pedigree (DC, 1947)

Rank – Best Batman Comics: 12
Sale Price: $120,000
Sale Year: 2021
Grade: CGC 9.8
Sale Location: Heritage Auctions

Detective Comics #124 is what happens when preservation meets perfection. This CGC 9.8 copy is the highest-graded of its kind, and it looks like it came off the press yesterday. The cover? A vibrant explosion of Joker mischief and musical madness titled “Sing a Song of Villainy”, drawn by Bob Kane and George Roussos. Inside, the Joker’s hideout, the “Ha-Hacienda,” makes an unforgettable appearance—and Batman and Robin bring the rhythm to crimefighting in one of the more whimsical Golden Age tales.

This is more than just a comic—it’s a museum piece. The rarity alone makes it stand out in any conversation about best Batman graphic novels or Batman best comics. And with backup art by Curt Swan and fewer than a dozen known copies above VF, this book plays lead vocals in the symphony of top Batman comics.

11. Detective Comics #69 – The Promise Collection Pedigree (DC, 1942)

Rank – Best Batman Comics: 11
Sale Price: $126,000
Sale Year: 2021
Grade: CGC 9.0
Sale Location: Heritage Auctions

The “Joker-in-a-bottle” cover is the stuff of nightmares—and pure comic art legend. Detective Comics #69 is one of the most visually striking Batman comic covers of the Golden Age, with Jerry Robinson capturing the Clown Prince of Crime like never before. With a rare black background that reveals even the smallest flaw, finding this book in high grade is like striking gold in Gotham’s underbelly.

This 9.0 CGC copy from the Promise Collection is just one of three at that grade, with only a single copy known to be higher. Inside, Batman and Robin are fighting for their lives while the Joker literally looms above them in glass. Featuring art from comic royalty like Joe Simon, Jack Kirby, and Bob Kane, this issue is teetering on the edge of Overstreet’s Top 100—and is a must-have for any collector chasing the top Batman comics ever published.

10. Detective Comics #38 (DC, 1940)

Rank – Best Batman Comics: 10
Sale Price: $132,000
Sale Year: 2022
Grade: CGC 8.0
Sale Location: Heritage Auctions

This is it. Detective Comics #38—the origin and first appearance of Robin, the Boy Wonder, and the original superhero sidekick. This book didn’t just change the Batman comic world—it changed comics forever. Robin’s introduction added heart, balance, and youthful energy to Batman’s grim crusade and kickstarted a trend that would ripple across publishers for decades.

The CGC 8.0 copy here is a unicorn: white pages, stunning colors, and incredibly well-preserved for such a landmark issue. The cover art by Bob Kane and Jerry Robinson still leaps off the page, with its bold green and orange background daring any imperfections to show. This is one of the best Batman comic runs to collect from a historical standpoint—and it comfortably lands in Overstreet’s Top 25 most valuable Golden Age comics. If you want to understand why comic book Bruce Wayne became more than just a brooding loner, this issue is the answer.

9. Detective Comics #225 (DC, 1955)

Rank – Best Batman Comics: 9
Sale Price: $138,000
Sale Year: 2021
Grade: CGC 9.4
Sale Location: ComicConnect

You might come for Batman, but you stay for the Martian Manhunter. Detective Comics #225 is the origin and first appearance of J'onn J'onzz, the Martian telepath who became a founding member of the Justice League and one of DC’s most underrated heroes. Though the alien sleuth wouldn’t grace a cover until years later, his introduction here marks one of the most important shifts in superhero storytelling—and is often cited as the unofficial start of the Silver Age.

This CGC 9.4 copy is the finest known example, blazing with color and clarity. While Batman still takes the spotlight on the cover (as expected in a Batman DC Comics title), it’s J’onn’s debut that makes this issue a key piece of essential Batman comics and overall DC history. If you’re building a serious collection of best Batman comic series and key expansions to the DC Comics universe, this issue is a must.

8. Detective Comics #114 – Double Cover (The Promise Collection Pedigree, DC, 1946)

Rank – Best Batman Comics: 8
Sale Price: $156,000
Sale Year: 2021
Grade: CGC 9.8 (Double Cover: 1st cover 9.4, interior 9.8)
Sale Location: ComicConnect

Double the Joker, double the value. Detective Comics #114 is already an iconic issue thanks to its black-background Joker cover by Win Mortimer, but this particular copy takes it to the next level with a rare double cover—graded 9.8 on the interior, and tied with the legendary Mile High copy for highest known grade.

This is a visual stunner and an ultra-rare survivor that defies time, smudges, and handling. Inside, you'll find classic Golden Age action with Batman and Robin, plus a Curt Swan-illustrated Boy Commandos backup. The sheer preservation of this copy is jaw-dropping, especially for a cover notorious for exposing every flaw. For fans obsessed with best Batman comic covers, near-perfect pedigree books, and one-of-a-kind anomalies, this entry easily earns its place among the best Batman comics of all time.

7. DETECTIVE COMICS (1937–2011; 2016–) #31

Rank – Best Batman Comics: 7
Sale Price: $174,340
Sale Year: 2024
Grade: CGC 5.0
Sale Location: ComicConnect

If you're a fan of the Batman comic in all its eerie, Gothic glory, Detective Comics #31 is your holy grail. Often cited as the first truly classic Batman story, this issue pits the Dark Knight against the vampiric Monk—his second-ever supervillain and a supernatural nightmare straight out of pulp horror. The two-part tale by Gardner Fox introduced the Batarang, the Bat-Gyro, and even Bruce Wayne's first love interest, Julie Madison.

And then there's that cover—Bob Kane’s brooding Batman overlooking a misty landscape, often reimagined in tributes like Batman #227. This third-ever Batman cover is pure mood and has helped make this issue one of the most sought-after comic Batman pieces of all time. Add to that the fact that it's one of the scarcest issues in the pre-Robin era, and it's easy to see why this is considered an essential Batman comic and an early precursor to the darker tone seen later in Batman graphic novels.

6. Detective Comics #29 (DC, 1939)

Rank – Best Batman Comics: 6
Sale Price: $276,000
Sale Year: 2022
Grade: CGC 8.5
Sale Location: Heritage Auctions

Only Batman could miss the covers of issues #28 and #30 and still show up this powerfully in Detective Comics #29. This is Batman’s second-ever cover appearance, and it’s a stunner—Bob Kane delivers a sinister, pulp-noir image that perfectly matches the gritty energy of early Gotham tales. Inside, we meet Dr. Death, Batman’s first recurring villain, launching a multi-issue arc that truly laid the groundwork for future Batman storylines.

This copy, graded CGC 8.5, is a visual knockout—those deep reds and crisp lines make it one of the finest surviving examples in the world. Ranked #14 on Overstreet’s Top 100 Golden Age Comics, it’s an indispensable gem for anyone building a legacy collection of top Batman comics, and a moment that kicked off the long tradition of iconic Batman comic pages.

5. Detective Comics #33 (DC, 1939)

Rank – Best Batman Comics: 5
Sale Price: $288,000
Sale Year: 2023
Grade: CGC 6.5
Sale Location: Heritage Auctions

This is where it all began—Detective Comics #33 is the first comic to reveal Batman’s origin story, and it still resonates today. The murder of young Bruce Wayne’s parents in Crime Alley, the vow at their gravesite, the decision to become a symbol that strikes fear into criminals—every iconic piece of the mythos stems from this issue. It's one of the best Batman comic stories ever told and still the template for countless retellings across comics, films, and TV.

With a moody and powerful cover by Bob Kane and Jerry Robinson, this CGC 6.5 copy ranks as one of the most valuable in Golden Age comics history—right behind Detective Comics #27 and #1. If you’re building a collection of best Batman comics of all time, this is an essential piece of comic book DNA. It also firmly solidifies comic book Bruce Wayne as a tragic, enduring icon.

4. Detective Comics #168 (DC, 1951)

Rank – Best Batman Comics: 4
Sale Price: $324,000
Sale Year: 2022
Grade: CGC 9.4
Sale Location: Heritage Auctions

"Red Hood." Two words that changed everything. Detective Comics #168 is the issue where the Joker’s origin story is finally revealed—a failed criminal who fell into a vat of chemicals while fleeing Batman, only to emerge as the madman we know today. This backstory would become the basis for numerous Batman graphic novels, films like The Killing Joke, and decades of psychological warfare between Batman and his greatest enemy.

Graded an astounding CGC 9.4, this is the highest-graded copy known, making it an elite collector’s piece. The art, tension, and historical weight behind this book easily place it among the best Batman comic runs to own, especially if you're fascinated by the twisted minds that define Gotham. For fans of Batman comic books with true lore-shaping power, this issue is a masterpiece.

3. Detective Comics #140 – The Promise Collection Pedigree (DC, 1948)

Rank – Best Batman Comics: 3
Sale Price: $456,000
Sale Year: 2021
Grade: CGC 9.6
Sale Location: Heritage Auctions

Riddle me this: What’s green, grinning, and just made comic book history? Detective Comics #140 is the first appearance and origin of the Riddler, Edward Nigma himself. A longtime thorn in the side of Batman and Robin, the Riddler became so iconic that he was chosen as the very first villain in the 1966 Batman TV show—played to perfection by Frank Gorshin.

This Promise Collection copy is nothing short of miraculous. With a CGC 9.6 grade, it's the highest-graded known copy, and one of only a handful even above VF. The striking Win Mortimer cover features Batman and Robin locked in another trap, while interior art from Dick Sprang and Curt Swan makes this issue a visual treat. Whether you're into TV nostalgia, Silver Age roots, or building out your set of best Batman comic covers, this issue belongs at the very top. It’s a key piece in the puzzle of best Batman comic runs.

2. Detective Comics #27 (DC, 1939)

Rank – Best Batman Comics: 2
Sale Price: $1,740,000
Sale Year: 2023
Grade: CGC 6.0
Sale Location: Heritage Auctions

This is it—the first appearance of Batman. Detective Comics #27 is the origin point of the legend, introducing Bruce Wayne, Commissioner Jim Gordon, and a new era of vigilante storytelling that would change pop culture forever. It's the equivalent of Action Comics #1 for the Caped Crusader—and arguably even more stylistically influential.

This CGC 6.0 copy is pristine for its age, and it includes a personal note from Bob Kane written on the interior. With art contributions from Kane, Joe Shuster, and Fred Guardineer, this book carries both artistic and historical weight. Currently ranked #2 on Overstreet’s list of Top 100 Golden Age Comics, this is the Batman comic book that started it all—literally. Whether you're a casual fan or a hardcore Bat-historian, this issue is the heart of the DC Comics Batman legacy, and an irreplaceable entry in the world of comic books Batman made iconic.

1. Batman #1 (DC Comics, Spring 1940)

Rank – Best Batman Comics: 1
Sale Price: $2,220,000
Sale Year: 2021
Grade: CGC 9.4
Sale Location: Heritage Auctions

There’s only one Batman #1—and it’s not just the cornerstone of Gotham lore, it’s one of the top five comic issues in the entire hobby. This issue launched the first Batman comic series, gave the Joker and Catwoman their unforgettable debuts, and solidified Batman as more than just a pulp detective—he became a cultural force.

This CGC 9.4 copy is the highest-graded example sold publicly in the CGC era. And grading Batman #1 is no small feat: the cover is mostly yellow and white, making smudges and flaws painfully obvious. But this one? Pristine. Just look at it—clean lines, no discoloration, flawless spine. It's a unicorn among Batman comic books.

As for content? The Joker appears in not one but two criminally clever stories, establishing him as the greatest comic book villain of all time. And Catwoman—still known then as “The Cat”—steals more than diamonds with her first appearance. With Bob Kane’s art, larger-than-life stories, and iconic characters, Batman #1 is the best Batman comic ever printed. No list of Batman graphic novels or essential Batman comics is complete without it.

Bonus: The Most Expensive Batman Comic Collectible Ever Sold—And It’s Not a Comic

While Batman #1 holds the crown as the most valuable comic book Batman issue, the single most expensive Batman-related item ever sold is actually a comic book cover.

In 2022, the original cover art for The Dark Knight Returns #1—painted by Frank Miller and Lynn Varley—shattered records, selling for a jaw-dropping $2.4 million. That’s right—more than any Batman comic ever.

This iconic lightning-filled image, showing a shadowy Batman mid-leap, redefined the superhero genre in the 1980s and reshaped Batman into the gritty, brooding figure we know today. The Dark Knight Returns is widely considered one of the best Batman graphic novels ever published, and its cover has transcended comics to become a piece of American pop art.

The fact that a single painted image outsold even Batman #1 proves just how powerful the visual mythology of Batman has become—not just in DC comics, but across pop culture. It’s not just about collecting—it’s about preserving Batman in comics as high art.

FAQS

How many Batman comics exist?

There are thousands of Batman comics spanning over eight decades. The core titles include Batman (1940–2011), Detective Comics (starting in 1939 and still running), Batman: The Dark Knight, Batman and Robin, and dozens of mini-series and spin-offs. In total, there are well over 10,000 individual Batman comic issues, counting all variants, crossovers, and reboots. The character’s rich legacy includes both Batman graphic novels and serialized arcs that continue to shape the modern comic landscape.

What is Batman #1 worth?

The value of Batman #1 (Spring 1940) depends heavily on its condition, but a CGC 9.4 graded copy sold for $2.22 million in 2021, making it one of the most expensive comic books ever. Even lower-grade copies can fetch hundreds of thousands of dollars. The issue is historic—it marks the first appearances of Joker and Catwoman, and launched the official Batman comic book series. It’s one of the most coveted collectibles in all of DC Comics history.

What is Batman's backstory?

Batman’s origin story first appeared in Detective Comics #33 (1939). After witnessing the murder of his parents in Crime Alley, Bruce Wayne dedicates his life to fighting crime. He trains his body and mind to perfection and eventually dons the cape and cowl, becoming the Dark Knight. This timeless tale has been retold across countless Batman comic pages, films, and even in some of the best Batman graphic novels, such as Batman: Year One and The Dark Knight Returns. It remains one of the most influential Batman storylines in comic book history.