It’s artist FRED RAY’s birthday…
I’ve mentioned this in passing in other contexts but of all the potential DC Facsimile Editions out there, 1942’s Batman #11 is one I’d want to see the most. (1950’s Detective Comics #168 is another.)
Why? Well, I just happen to think this is the best Batman cover of the Golden Age, and all credit goes to penciller Fred Ray — who was born 106 years ago, on Feb. 4. 1920 — and inker Jerry Robinson (as well as the unknown colorist).
Imagine this in foil!
And while DC has produced Facsimiles based solely on covers, this also has the distinction of being the first Joker cover ever, so there’s a history hook, as well. It’s not just about the front, either: There are Joker and Penguin stories inside.
The Joker’s taking center stage in Batman come April, so perhaps this spring would be a groovy time to trot this one out.
Doesn’t hurt to float the idea, right?
For other takes on this classic, links below!
—
MORE
— 1942’s Classic BATMAN #11 Cover — ONE MINUTE LATER. Click here.
— Dig JOHN K. SNYDER’s Gorgeous Homage to the Classic BATMAN #11 Cover. Click here.
— Dig CHRIS FRANKLIN’s Gallery of Glorious BATMAN Golden Age Covers — MEZCO Style. Click here.
February 4, 2026
I’m looking forward to a 2026 edition of “facsimile editions we really need to see” on this site! (Scrolling through your older ones, a lot of your demands have come true!)
Any interest in running a reader poll?
February 5, 2026
Yeah, I think we’re do for another round-up…
February 4, 2026
As nice as these facsimile comics are I think I’m getting a little tapped out buying random issues here and there.
I know some people don’t care for omnibus volumes. But I’m loving the fact that I’ve got a massive amount of golden age stories that I can read and enjoy. Just the other day, I was actually looking through the early Batman stories admiring the noticeable differences to when Bob Kane started bringing in ghost artist to help draw.
Thankfully, he would eventually let them just take over completely, and the Batman are truly flourished.
February 4, 2026
I must admit, this is one of my favorite golden age Batman covers.
Even though I already have it in omnibus and in TPB, If DC ever did make a facsimile of this, I know for FACT that I’d buy it!
Happy heavenly birthday, Fred Ray!
February 4, 2026
It is the gem of my collection. But I’d kill for full size facsimile copies. Then I could consider parting with the original. I always thought Jerry’s lines came through in the inks he did.
February 5, 2026
I would buy this in an instant.