Batman #181 was one of the best-selling comics at Comic Buying Center in November. But why did Batman 181 make so much hussle among those willing to sell comic books? What’s special about this issue?
Batman comic series
The original “Batman” comic series, launched by DC Comics in the spring of 1940, quickly became a huge thing in the superhero genre. Created by writer Bill Finger and artist Bob Kane, the series expanded on Batman’s earlier appearances in “Detective Comics.” The first issue was particularly notable, introducing iconic villains such as the Joker and Catwoman, who would become central figures in Batman’s world.
Initially, the series was published quarterly, but because of its unexpectedly huge popularity, it shifted to a bimonthly schedule after issue #5 in 1941. Over the years, a lot of talented writers and artists contributed to the series, including Jerry Robinson and Dick Sprang, each adding their unique something to Batman’s grim world. The original run concluded in 2011 with issue #713, making it one of the longest running comic series in history.
Batman 181
Batman comic 181, published in June 1966, is a well-known issue that introduced Poison Ivy. The story, titled “Beware of – Poison Ivy!”, was created by writer Robert Kanigher and artist Sheldon Moldoff, with a cover by Carmine Infantino and Murphy Anderson. In Batman 181 Poison Ivy challenges Gotham’s top female criminals – Dragon Fly, Silken Spider, and Tiger Moth – to assert her dominance, leading to an encounter with Batman and Robin. At the time of its release, batman #181 (june 1966) was priced at 12 cents, which is about $1,15 today.
And a bit about the character of Poison Ivy. Dr. Pamela Isley, introduced in 1966, is a brilliant botanist who becomes an eco-terrorist Poison Ivy after experiencing experiments gone wrong and personal betrayal. Her character is defined by her deep love for plants and nature, which leads her to view humanity as a threat to the natural world. Driven by her connection to plant life, Poison Ivy uses her expertise in botany and toxicology to fight for environmental causes, often resorting to criminal methods.
How much is the batman 181
“Batman” #181, published in June 1966, is a historically significant issue that introduced Poison Ivy. The value of this comic varies based on its condition and the presence of the original centerfold pin-up, which is often missing in many copies.
Recent Sales:
- High-Grade Copies. In August 2023, a CGC 9.8 (Near Mint/Mint) copy sold for $96,000, surpassing the previous record of $90,000 set in 2020.
- Mid-Grade Copies. A CGC 6.0 (Fine) copy was auctioned for $840 in August 2024.
- Low-Grade Copies. Copies in lower grades, such as CGC 4.0 (Very Good), have recently sold for about $450.
Factors Influencing Value:
- Condition. As usual, batman 181 value is significantly impacted by its grade and physical condition, with higher-grade copies getting higher prices.
- Centerfold Pin-Up. The presence of the original centerfold pin-up poster boosts the comic’s value, as many copies are missing this feature.
