Batman – Whitman – (1978–1980) – Volume 1 – #306–326

Batman – Whitman – (1978–1980) – Volume 1 – Limited Series – #306–326

📘 Series Summary

During the late 1970s and early 1980s, DC Comics partnered with Whitman (a subsidiary of Western Publishing) to distribute their titles through non-traditional outlets like department stores and drugstores. These Whitman Batman editions are unique because they were released simultaneously with the standard DC newsstand editions, rather than being later reprints. This specific run of issues (#306–326) represents a fascinating era of the Bronze Age, featuring the Dark Knight in a series of gritty, mystery-focused urban adventures.

The stories within these issues were crafted by legendary creators such as Len Wein and Gerry Conway, with iconic art by Irv Novick and Don Newton. While the interior content matches the main DC line, the Whitman versions are distinguished by the Whitman logo on the cover and a lack of the traditional DC "bullet." Because these were often sold in plastic multi-packs, finding high-grade copies is a significant challenge for collectors, making this run a prized target for variant enthusiasts and Bronze Age historians alike.

⭐ Why This Series Stands Out

  • Features simultaneous distribution variants, making them distinct collectables from the standard DC newsstand and direct market editions.
  • Includes key Bronze Age storylines, such as the first appearance of Lucius Fox (in issue #307).
  • Boasts a legendary creative pedigree with scripts by Len Wein and art by Don Newton and Irv Novick.
  • Characterized by the iconic Whitman "W" logo on the top left corner, replacing the traditional DC branding.
  • Highly sought after in high-grade condition due to the damaging nature of the original multi-pack polybag distribution.
  • Represents a complete "capsule" of Batman's development at the dawn of the 1980s, just before the character's pre-Crisis evolution.

📦 Inventory Notice

We are currently uploading thousands of back issues into our system. Occasional inventory discrepancies may occur during this migration. If anything in your order is unavailable, we will contact you immediately and make it right.

Thank you for your patience and for supporting our shop!