Published in 1988, Batman: The Cult #1 is the opening chapter of the acclaimed four-issue prestige-format miniseries that pits Batman against the fanatical cult leader Deacon Blackfire. Written by Jim Starlin with artwork and cover by legendary horror artist Bernie Wrightson, the series is widely regarded as one of the darkest and most psychologically compelling Batman stories of the late 1980s. The CGC label notes the embossed cover, a distinctive production feature unique to this first issue. Professionally graded CGC 9.8 with White Pages, this copy represents a superb high-grade example of a modern Batman classic. The combination of Starlin's gripping narrative, Wrightson's atmospheric artwork, and the enduring popularity of Deacon Blackfire has made Batman: The Cult a favorite among Batman collectors, particularly in certified Near Mint/Mint condition.