Thousands upon thousands of comic books have been published over the past 100 years and while many titles jockey for favorable positions with readers, few achieve legendary status. Of those select few that consistently enthrall readers with their tales of adventure and heroics, Batman is among the most celebrated.
Scoop is exclusively announcing that in March 2018, Hake’s Americana & Collectibles will give Batman collectors the chance to bring home a copy of Detective Comics #27 CGC 5.0 with the first appearance of Batman.
“Hake’s Americana & Collectibles aims to see just how high collector demand will take the Caped Crusader, by offering this CGC-graded example of Detective Comics #27, easily the premiere item in the first auction of our 51st year,” Hake’s President Alex Winter said.
Created by Bob Kane and Bill Finger, the Caped Crusader was introduced in 1939. One of the most coveted comic books of all time, Detective Comics #27 presents a vicious villain, crafty investigation, mystery, and ingenuity – hallmarks of any great Batman story. The issue, which also introduced Commissioner Gordon, ends Batman’s harrowing first comic adventure by revealing him to be “young socialite” Bruce Wayne.
For nearly 80 years Batman has fostered a relationship with comics and superhero fans while enticing a wider audience in other entertainment mediums. The Dark Knight has been the hero of many comic titles, newspaper strips, film serials, the beloved ’66 TV show, several blockbuster movies, animated features and TV shows, and video games.
But it all goes back to the comic.
“This example really delivers when it comes to eye appeal, with its historic Bob Kane cover instantly grabbing one’s attention,” Hake’s Senior Cataloger Mike Bollinger said. “The issue’s solid yellow background is ordinarily very prone to smudging, yet it is minimally affected here. The red ‘Detective Comics’ logo block is also prone to fading and discoloration, but the crimson color remains bold and bright. And while there is a 1” spine split at the bottom of the book, as well as some mild spine creasing, these are much lesser in severity than typically seen. To top it off, this is a superb original state example, with no restoration of any kind.”
In their past two auctions, Hake’s has set record prices for several key comic books. Last summer they sold a copy of All Star Comics #8 CBCS 2.5 with the first appearance of Wonder Woman for $31,925. In the fall, they sold a copy of Amazing Fantasy #15 CGC 7.5 with the first Spider-Man for $140,760.
Batman isn’t the only one who’ll draw significant bidding in the March auction. According to Hake’s, this sale will feature their best comics section ever, covering Golden to Modern Age titles, with keys like Action Comics #7 CGC 4.0 and Captain America Comics #3 CGC 7.0.
Hake’s next auction will be online and open for bids on Tuesday, February 20 and closing on Tuesday through Thursday, March 13-15. Learn more about this auction and consignment opportunities at hakes.com.
