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Rare Dh60,000 Batman Comic Displayed at Sharjah Animation and Comics Conference
Khaleej Times · 24 Oct 2026 · 1 min read
A handcrafted, camera-inspired edition of Batman: The Killing Joke is on display at the Sharjah Animation and Comics Conference in Aljada.
A rare collector’s edition of the comic book Batman: The Killing Joke is currently on display at the Sharjah Animation and Comics Conference. The event is being held at Aljada and features the Avant-Garde Edition, which is priced at Dh60,000. Only 47 copies of this specific version are being produced worldwide.
The book weighs 4.4kg and is designed to resemble a camera, referencing the artwork on the original 1988 cover. According to Khaleej Times, the edition features aluminium boards lined with goatskin, a detachable lens, and a viewfinder. It is housed in a carrying case made of calf leather and suede.
Developed by Croatian publisher Argent Comics, the book uses a patent-pending process to print on metallic paper. The 47 copies produced represent the atomic number of silver. The edition includes two versions of the story's artwork, a transparent film negative, and a signature from illustrator Brian Bolland.
The Sharjah Animation and Comics Conference is organised by the Sharjah Book Authority. The programme includes more than 150 activities, such as workshops and film screenings, featuring contributors from over 30 countries. Visitors to the Aljada site can also view a black-and-white Noir edition of the comic.
Key points
- The Avant-Garde Edition of the comic is valued at Dh60,000
- Only 47 handcrafted copies are being produced globally
- The book features aluminium boards, goatskin binding, and a detachable lens
- The item is being exhibited at the Argent Comics booth in Aljada
Why it matters for Aljada
For Aljada residents and visitors, this exhibition brings a world-class cultural event to the community. The presence of such rare, high-value collectibles highlights Aljada's role as a hub for international arts and niche interests, offering unique experiences for comic enthusiasts and collectors right within the development.
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