CGC-certified Batman #251 Sets Record in ComicLink Sale

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Laughing its way to the top was a Batman #251 graded CGC 9.8, which set a new record for the issue by realizing $38,000. Released in September 1973, this issue is particularly significant as it marks the return of the Joker to his more sinister and homicidal roots, after a period of being depicted as a prankster. Written by Denny O'Neil, "The Joker's Five-Way Revenge!" revitalizes the character with a darker, more menacing tone, which would come to define his future portrayals. The striking cover by artist Neal Adams, featuring Batman in a dynamic pose, has become one of the most iconic images in comic book history.

O'Neil and Adams' historic run on the Batman series in the early 1970s revitalized the character by returning him to his darker, more detective-oriented roots, and moving away from the campy tone of the 1960s TV series. This era is celebrated for its sophisticated storytelling and dramatic, realistic artwork, which significantly influenced the future of Batman comics.

As of June 18, 2024, there were 4,261 examples of Batman #251 in the CGC Census, but only 30 in CGC 9.8.

Other CGC-certified comics sold in this auction include:

• an Amazing Fantasy #15 graded CGC 3.5, which realized $32,000
• a Giant-Size X-Men #1 graded CGC 9.8, which realized $20,626
• an Amazing Spider-Man #129 graded CGC 9.8, which realized $18,794
• an X-Men #1 graded CGC 6.0, which realized $15,250
• a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1 graded CGC 8.5, which realized $12,850
• a Journey into Mystery Annual #1 graded CGC 9.6, which realized $12,319
• a Fantastic Four #1 CGC Signature Series (Stan Lee) graded CGC 3.0, which realized $12,000
• an Amazing Spider-Man #2 graded CGC 8.0, which realized $10,900
• an Incredible Hulk #181 graded CGC 9.4, which realized $9,200
• a Journey into Mystery #83 graded CGC 4.5, which realized $8,600

About CGC

Since revolutionizing comic book grading in 2000, CGC has grown to include certification services for a vast variety of pop culture collectibles. These divisions include CGC Cards, CGC Video Games and CGC Home Video. CGC Cards provides expert card grading for TCGs, sports cards and non-sports cards. CGC Video Games is dedicated to video game grading for the most popular consoles, including Nintendo, Sega, Atari, PlayStation and more. The newest division of CGC, CGC Home Video, provides expert VHS grading in addition to other types of home media.