The Killing Joke (1988) Signed First Edition Reference

Batman: The Killing Joke is the most influential single-issue Batman story ever published. Written by Alan Moore with art by Brian Bolland, the 1988 DC Comics prestige format one-shot depicts the Joker’s attempt to prove that anyone can be driven insane by “one bad day.” The story’s treatment of the Joker’s origin — and its shocking violence against Barbara Gordon — has shaped every subsequent interpretation of the character.

First Edition Identification

Publisher: DC Comics Publication date: March 1988 Format: Prestige format (48 pages, square-bound, card stock covers)

The first printing is identified by the original color scheme — the interior coloring differs from later recolored editions. The 2008 “Deluxe Edition” features recoloring by Bolland himself.

Signed Copy Market Values

• Signed by Moore (verified), first printing: $3,000–$8,000
• Signed by Brian Bolland, first printing: $200–$500
• Signed by both Moore and Bolland: $5,000–$12,000
• Unsigned first printing, near mint: $100–$300

The Killing Joke is one of the most collected single comics of the modern era. Its compact format and self-contained story make it an ideal entry point for Moore collecting, though Moore’s signature scarcity keeps signed copies in the trophy tier.