DC COMICS: 2000 KEY ISSUE CATALOG
| ISSUE TITLE & NUMBER | CREATORS | WHY IT IS A KEY | COVER DATE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Harley Quinn #1 | Karl Kesel, Terry Dodson | First issue of Harley Quinn's very first ongoing solo series. Highly sought-after Terry Dodson cover. | Dec 2000 |
| Batgirl #1 | Kelley Puckett, Damion Scott | First issue of the first ongoing Batgirl series, starring Cassandra Cain in the lead role. | Apr 2000 |
| JLA #43 | Mark Waid, Howard Porter | "Tower of Babel" Part 1. The iconic storyline where Ra's al Ghul steals Batman's secret contingency plans to take down the Justice League. | Jul 2000 |
| Lucifer #1 | Mike Carey, Chris Weston | Launch of the critically acclaimed Vertigo ongoing series spinning out of Neil Gaiman's Sandman universe. | Jun 2000 |
| The Flash #164 | Geoff Johns, Angel Unzueta | "Wonderland" Part 1. The official start of Geoff Johns' legendary, career-defining run on The Flash. | Sep 2000 |
| Detective Comics #742 | Greg Rucka, Shawn Martinbrough | 1st appearance of Sasha Bordeaux (Bruce Wayne's bodyguard who eventually discovers his secret). Start of Greg Rucka's acclaimed run. | Mar 2000 |
| Batman: Gotham Knights #1 | Devin Grayson, Dale Eaglesham | First issue of the ongoing series focusing on the extended Bat-Family, and the return of the "Batman Black and White" backups. | Mar 2000 |
| Orion #1 | Walt Simonson | Launch of the acclaimed Fourth World series written and drawn by comic legend Walt Simonson. | Jun 2000 |
| Young Justice: Sins of Youth #1 | Peter David, Todd Nauck | Start of the massive crossover event where the ages of the DC Universe heroes and sidekicks are magically reversed. | May 2000 |
| The Spectre #1 | J.M. DeMatteis, Ryan Sook | First issue of the ongoing series featuring Hal Jordan (formerly Green Lantern/Parallax) seeking redemption as the Spirit of Vengeance. | Mar 2000 |
| Superman: Emperor Joker #1 | Jeph Loeb, Various | Key chapter of the wild crossover event where the Joker steals Mr. Mxyzptlk's reality-warping powers and remakes the universe. | Oct 2000 |
| Legion Lost #1 | Dan Abnett, Andy Lanning, Olivier Coipel | First issue of the acclaimed 12-part maxi-series that successfully rebooted and modernized the Legion of Super-Heroes. | May 2000 |
| Batman #582 | Ed Brubaker, Scott McDaniel | 1st appearance of the deadly assassin and martial artist Philo Zeiss. | Oct 2000 |
| Batman / Huntress: Cry for Blood #1 | Greg Rucka, Rick Burchett | First issue of the acclaimed mini-series that redefined Helena Bertinelli's (Huntress) origins and deepens her mob ties. | Jun 2000 |
| Martian Manhunter #24 | John Ostrander, Doug Mahnke | 1st appearance of the villain Scorch, who would play a major role in upcoming JLA storylines. | Nov 2000 |
| JSA #11 | David S. Goyer, Geoff Johns, Buzz | Sandy Hawkins officially takes up the mantle and name of Sand, succeeding his mentor, the original Sandman. | Jun 2000 |
DC COMICS: 2001 KEY ISSUE CATALOG
| ISSUE TITLE & NUMBER | CREATORS | WHY IT IS A KEY | COVER DATE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Action Comics #775 | Joe Kelly, Doug Mahnke | 1st appearance of Manchester Black and The Elite. A landmark issue examining the morality of superheroes in the modern age. | Mar 2001 |
| Green Arrow #1 | Kevin Smith, Phil Hester | "Quiver" Part 1. Resurrection of Oliver Queen (Green Arrow). 1st appearance of Mia Dearden (later Speedy II). | Apr 2001 |
| JSA #23 | David S. Goyer, Geoff Johns, Stephen Sadowski | The return of Carter Hall (Hawkman) to the DC Universe. | Jun 2001 |
| The Flash #170 | Geoff Johns, Scott Kolins | 1st appearance of Cicada (David Hersch). | Mar 2001 |
| The Flash #171 | Geoff Johns, Scott Kolins | 1st appearance of Peek-a-Boo (Lashawn Baez). | Apr 2001 |
| The Flash #174 | Geoff Johns, Scott Kolins | 1st appearance of Tar Pit. | Jul 2001 |
| Superman #166 | Jeph Loeb, Ed McGuinness | 1st appearance of the modern, Post-Crisis Krypto (Superdog). | Mar 2001 |
| JSA #21 | Geoff Johns, David Goyer | 1st appearance of the new Crimson Avenger (Jill Carlyle). | Apr 2001 |
| Wonder Woman #171 | Phil Jimenez | 1st appearance of the new Silver Swan (Vanessa Kapatalis). | Aug 2001 |
| Superman: Our Worlds at War Secret Files #1 | Various | 1st appearance of Imperiex-Prime, the cosmic threat behind the 'Our Worlds at War' event. | Aug 2001 |
| Batman #587 | Ed Brubaker, Scott McDaniel | Start of the "Officer Down" crossover event. Jim Gordon is shot, leading to his retirement. | Mar 2001 |
| Wonder Woman #170 | Phil Jimenez, Joe Kelly | "A Day in the Life." Critically acclaimed issue featuring a Lois Lane interview with Wonder Woman. | Jul 2001 |
| Just Imagine Stan Lee's Batman #1 | Stan Lee, Joe Kubert | 1st appearance of Wayne Williams (Batman). First issue of the historic collaboration where Stan Lee reimagined DC icons. | Sep 2001 |
| Superman #171 | Jeph Loeb, Ed McGuinness | Death of General Sam Lane (Lois Lane's father) during the 'Our Worlds at War' event. | Aug 2001 |
| Wonder Woman #172 | Phil Jimenez | Death of Queen Hippolyta (Wonder Woman's mother) in battle against Imperiex. | Sep 2001 |
| Nightwing #53 | Chuck Dixon, Greg Land | Key chapter in 'Officer Down' featuring early Greg Land artwork. | Mar 2001 |
| 100 Bullets #26 | Brian Azzarello, Eduardo Risso | Important Vertigo key; 1st appearance of the shooter in the 'Mr. Branch' storyline. | Sep 2001 |
| Green Lantern #137 | Judd Winick, Dale Eaglesham | Introduction of the Terry Berg hate crime storyline, a landmark social-commentary arc in mainstream comics. | Jun 2001 |
DC COMICS: 2002 KEY ISSUE CATALOG
| ISSUE TITLE & NUMBER | CREATORS | WHY IT IS A KEY | COVER DATE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Batman #608 | Jeph Loeb, Jim Lee | 1st appearance of Thomas Elliot (Hush). Start of the "Hush" storyline and Jim Lee's historic run on Batman. | Dec 2002 |
| Fables #1 | Bill Willingham, Lan Medina | 1st appearance of Bigby Wolf, Snow White, and the Fables cast. Launch of the landmark Vertigo series. | Jul 2002 |
| Y: The Last Man #1 | Brian K. Vaughan, Pia Guerra | 1st appearance of Yorick Brown and Ampersand. Debut of one of the most successful Vertigo titles in history. | Sep 2002 |
| Catwoman #1 | Ed Brubaker, Darwyn Cooke | 1st appearance of the iconic "goggles" costume. Radical noir-style reboot of Selina Kyle. | Jan 2002 |
| Gotham Central #1 | Ed Brubaker, Greg Rucka, Michael Lark | First issue of the critically acclaimed series focusing on the Gotham City Police Department. | Feb 2002 |
| The Flash #181 | Geoff Johns, Scott Kolins | 1st appearance of Murmur (Michael Amar) and Girder (Tony Woodward). | Feb 2002 |
| The Flash #183 | Geoff Johns, Scott Kolins | 1st appearance of Axel Walker as the second Trickster. | Apr 2002 |
| Hawkman #1 | Geoff Johns, Rags Morales | First issue of the modern Hawkman series. Relaunch of the character following the 'JSA' return. | May 2002 |
| Batman #600 | Ed Brubaker, Scott McDaniel | Massive anniversary issue. Conclusion of the "Bruce Wayne: Murderer?" storyline. | Apr 2002 |
| Green Lantern #154 | Judd Winick, Dale Eaglesham | 1st appearance of Amon Sur (the son of Abin Sur). | Nov 2002 |
| Detective Comics #767 | Greg Rucka, Scott McDaniel | Part 1 of the "Bruce Wayne: Fugitive" event. Major status quo shift for the Bat-family. | Apr 2002 |
| JSA #39 | Geoff Johns, Leonard Kirk | Courtney Whitmore officially assumes the name Stargirl (previously Star-Spangled Kid) after being given Starman's staff. | Oct 2002 |
| Birds of Prey #41 | Chuck Dixon, Butch Guice | 1st appearance of Savant (Brian Durlin). | May 2002 |
| JLA #61 | Joe Kelly, Doug Mahnke | 1st appearance of Naif al-Sheikh, who later leads the Justice League Elite. | Feb 2002 |
| Wonder Woman #184 | Phil Jimenez | 1st appearance of the modern, post-Crisis Villainy Inc. (Clea, Giganta, Jinx, Trinity, and Cyborgirl). | Oct 2002 |
| Batman #609 | Jeph Loeb, Jim Lee | 1st full appearance of Hush in costume. Key development in the Thomas Elliot subplot. | Jan 2003 (Nov 2002 ship) |
| Superman: Day of Doom #1 | Dan Jurgens, Bill Sienkiewicz | First issue of the mini-series exploring the 10th anniversary of the 'Death of Superman' and the return of Doomsday. | Dec 2002 |
| Green Arrow #13 | Brad Meltzer, Phil Hester | Start of Brad Meltzer's acclaimed "The Archer's Quest" storyline. | Jun 2002 |
DC COMICS: 2003 KEY ISSUE CATALOG
| ISSUE TITLE & NUMBER | CREATORS | WHY IT IS A KEY | COVER DATE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Teen Titans #1 | Geoff Johns, Mike McKone | Launch of the landmark Volume 3 series. 1st appearance of the new team roster (Robin, Superboy, Wonder Girl, Kid Flash). | Sep 2003 |
| The Flash #197 | Geoff Johns, Scott Kolins | 1st appearance of Hunter Zolomon as the new Zoom. | Jun 2003 |
| Superman: Red Son #1 | Mark Millar, Dave Johnson | 1st appearance of "Red Son" Superman. Debut of the critically acclaimed Elseworlds classic. | Jun 2003 |
| Superman/Batman #1 | Jeph Loeb, Ed McGuinness | Launch of the iconic world's finest series. 1st appearance of the Public Enemies storyline. | Oct 2003 |
| Batman #612 | Jeph Loeb, Jim Lee | Iconic battle between Batman and a mind-controlled Superman. Key "Hush" chapter. | Apr 2003 |
| Batman #619 | Jeph Loeb, Jim Lee | Finale of the "Hush" storyline. Final identity reveal of Hush. Massive fold-out cover. | Sep 2003 |
| Superman: Birthright #1 | Mark Waid, Leinil Francis Yu | Launch of the 12-issue maxi-series redefining Superman's Post-Crisis origin. | Sep 2003 |
| Outsiders #1 | Judd Winick, Tom Raney | Launch of Volume 3. Nightwing and Arsenal assemble a new team following Titans/Young Justice: Graduation Day. | Aug 2003 |
| Wonder Woman #196 | Greg Rucka, Drew Johnson | Start of Greg Rucka's critically acclaimed, politically charged run on Wonder Woman. | Nov 2003 |
| Birds of Prey #56 | Gail Simone, Ed Benes | Start of Gail Simone's career-defining run. 1st appearance of Savant (cameo). | Aug 2003 |
| Teen Titans #2 | Geoff Johns, Mike McKone | 1st appearance of Rose Wilson as Ravager in the Post-Crisis era. 1st cameo of Deathstroke in this volume. | Oct 2003 |
| The Flash #200 | Geoff Johns, Alberto Dose | Anniversary issue. Major showdown between Wally West and Zoom. | Sep 2003 |
| JLA #84 | Joe Kelly, Doug Mahnke | 1st appearance of Fernus the Burning (Martian Manhunter's psychological break). Start of 'Trial by Fire'. | Oct 2003 |
| Empire #1 | Mark Waid, Barry Kitson | First DC-published issue of the acclaimed series where the villain successfully conquers the world. | Sep 2003 |
| JSA #54 | Geoff Johns, Don Kramer | Key development for the new Crimson Avenger. Introduction of the "Princes of Darkness" arc. | Dec 2003 |
| Plastic Man #1 | Kyle Baker | Launch of the award-winning, stylistically unique solo series for Eel O'Brian. | Dec 2003 |
| Batman #613 | Jeph Loeb, Jim Lee | Key Harley Quinn and Catwoman chapter in the "Hush" storyline. Iconic Jim Lee art. | May 2003 |
| H-E-R-O #1 | Will Pfeifer, Kano | Launch of the cult classic series reimagining the "Dial H for Hero" concept. | Mar 2003 |
DC COMICS: 2004 KEY ISSUE CATALOG
| ISSUE TITLE & NUMBER | CREATORS | WHY IT IS A KEY | COVER DATE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Identity Crisis #1 | Brad Meltzer, Rags Morales | Death of Sue Dibny. Beginning of the massive event that redefined the Justice League and the ethics of the DCU. | Jun 2004 |
| Green Lantern: Rebirth #1 | Geoff Johns, Ethan Van Sciver | The official return of Hal Jordan. Start of Geoff Johns' historic 9-year Green Lantern saga. | Oct 2004 |
| Superman/Batman #8 | Jeph Loeb, Michael Turner | The return of Kara Zor-El (Supergirl) to the modern DC Universe. Iconic Michael Turner art. | May 2004 |
| Batman #635 | Judd Winick, Doug Mahnke | 1st appearance of Jason Todd as Red Hood. One of the most significant Batman keys of the 2000s. | Dec 2004 |
| Superman #204 | Brian Azzarello, Jim Lee | Start of the "For Tomorrow" storyline. 1st appearance of Equus. Historic Jim Lee run on Superman begins. | Apr 2004 |
| Detective Comics #797 | Andersen Gabrych, Pete Woods | 1st appearance of Stephanie Brown as Robin (in costume). | Oct 2004 |
| Manhunter #1 | Marc Andreyko, Jesus Saiz | 1st appearance and origin of Kate Spencer as the new Manhunter. Launch of the cult classic series. | Oct 2004 |
| Teen Titans #12 | Geoff Johns, Mike McKone | Mia Dearden officially becomes the new Speedy. 1st appearance of the new Titans Tower. | Aug 2004 |
| Identity Crisis #4 | Brad Meltzer, Rags Morales | The brutal death of Jack Drake (father of Tim Drake). Key development for Robin. | Sep 2004 |
| Green Lantern: Rebirth #2 | Geoff Johns, Ethan Van Sciver | Parallax is revealed to be a fear parasite rather than Hal Jordan's psyche. Major retcon for the GL mythos. | Nov 2004 |
| Superman/Batman #13 | Jeph Loeb, Michael Turner | Supergirl officially joins the Justice League and chooses her superhero costume. | Oct 2004 |
| Ex Machina #1 | Brian K. Vaughan, Tony Harris | Launch of the award-winning Wildstorm/DC series. 1st appearance of Mitchell Hundred (The Great Machine). | Aug 2004 |
| Adam Strange #1 | Andy Diggle, Pascal Ferry | Launch of the acclaimed "Planet Heist" mini-series, setting up the cosmic landscape for Infinite Crisis. | Nov 2004 |
| Batman #631 | Bill Willingham, Kinsun Loh | Batman fires Stephanie Brown as Robin. Key chapter in the "War Games" event. | Oct 2004 |
| Justice League Elite #1 | Joe Kelly, Doug Mahnke | Launch of the series following the elite black-ops team spinning out of JLA. | Sep 2004 |
| Detective Comics #790 | Andersen Gabrych, Pete Woods | 1st appearance of The Mortician. | Mar 2004 |
| The Flash #210 | Geoff Johns, Howard Porter | 1st appearance of Axel Walker as the new Trickster in a starring rogue role. | Jul 2004 |
| JSA #58 | Geoff Johns, Don Kramer | Death of the Crimson Avenger (Jill Carlyle). Major conclusion to the "Black Reign" fallout. | Apr 2004 |
| Batman #633 | Bill Willingham, Ramon Bachs | The "Death" of Stephanie Brown. Massive consequences for the Bat-family for years to come. | Dec 2004 |
| Richard Dragon #1 | Chuck Dixon, Scott McDaniel | Launch of the modern reboot for the legendary martial artist. 1st appearance of Bronze Tiger in the modern era. | Jul 2004 |
DC COMICS: 2005 KEY ISSUE CATALOG
| ISSUE TITLE & NUMBER | CREATORS | WHY IT IS A KEY | COVER DATE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Green Lantern #1 | Geoff Johns, Carlos Pacheco | First issue of the landmark Volume 4 series. Hal Jordan returns to active duty as Earth's Green Lantern. | Jul 2005 |
| Infinite Crisis #1 | Geoff Johns, Phil Jimenez | Start of the massive 20th-anniversary sequel to Crisis on Infinite Earths. 1st appearance of Earth-Two Superman and Lois Lane in the modern era. | Dec 2005 |
| Wonder Woman #219 | Greg Rucka, Rags Morales | Shocking "Sacrifice" tie-in. Wonder Woman executes Maxwell Lord on live television to break his mind control over Superman. | Sep 2005 |
| Villains United #1 | Gail Simone, Dale Eaglesham | 1st appearance of the modern Secret Six (Catman, Deadshot, Cheshire, Ragdoll, Scandal Savage, Parademon). | Jul 2005 |
| All-Star Superman #1 | Grant Morrison, Frank Quitely | Launch of the critically acclaimed masterpiece. Widely considered one of the greatest Superman stories ever told. | Jan 2006 (Nov 2005 ship) |
| The OMAC Project #1 | Greg Rucka, Jesus Saiz | 1st appearance of Brother Eye and the OMAC virus. Key prelude to Infinite Crisis. | Jun 2005 |
| Batman #638 | Judd Winick, Doug Mahnke | Batman officially discovers that the Red Hood is Jason Todd. Unmasking of the villain. | May 2005 |
| Day of Vengeance #1 | Bill Willingham, Justiniano | 1st appearance of the Shadowpact (Blue Devil, Enchantress, Nightshade, Ragman, Detective Chimp, Nightmaster). | Jun 2005 |
| Vengeance Underground #1 | Brian Azzarello, Cliff Chiang | First issue of the acclaimed re-imagining of the classic DC war/horror characters. | Nov 2005 |
| Seven Soldiers: Zatanna #1 | Grant Morrison, Ryan Sook | Part of Grant Morrison's ambitious "Seven Soldiers" meta-series. 1st appearance of Misty Kilgore. | Jun 2005 |
| Countdown to Infinite Crisis #1 | Geoff Johns, Greg Rucka, Various | The brutal death of Blue Beetle (Ted Kord). Sets the dark tone for the upcoming Crisis. | May 2005 |
| JLA #115 | Geoff Johns, Allan Heinberg, Chris Batista | Start of the "Crisis of Conscience" arc. Fallout from Identity Crisis leads to the internal collapse of the Justice League. | Aug 2005 |
| Batman #644 | Judd Winick, Doug Mahnke | The "War Crimes" crossover finale. Key development in the rivalry between Black Mask and Red Hood. | Oct 2005 |
| Supergirl #1 | Jeph Loeb, Ian Churchill | First issue of Kara Zor-El's ongoing solo series in the modern era. | Oct 2005 |
| Green Lantern #6 | Geoff Johns, Ethan Van Sciver | 1st appearance of the modern Green Man. Key development for the "Sector 2814" lore. | Dec 2005 |
| Justice #1 | Jim Krueger, Alex Ross, Doug Braithwaite | Launch of the 12-issue masterpiece featuring fully painted Alex Ross artwork. A love letter to the Silver Age Justice League. | Oct 2005 |
| Lex Luthor: Man of Steel #1 | Brian Azzarello, Lee Bermejo | Acclaimed prestige format mini-series showing the Superman mythos from Lex Luthor's perspective. | May 2005 |
| Rann-Thanagar War #1 | Dave Gibbons, Ivan Reis | Epic cosmic event establishing the state of the DC universe in space. 1st appearance of the modern Hawkmen army. | Jul 2005 |
DC COMICS: 2006 KEY ISSUE CATALOG
| ISSUE TITLE & NUMBER | CREATORS | WHY IT IS A KEY | COVER DATE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infinite Crisis #3 | Geoff Johns, Phil Jimenez | 1st appearance of Jaime Reyes (the 3rd Blue Beetle). | Feb 2006 |
| Infinite Crisis #5 | Geoff Johns, Phil Jimenez | 1st appearance of Jaime Reyes as Blue Beetle. 1st appearance of the Scarab in its modern form. | Apr 2006 |
| Batman #655 | Grant Morrison, Andy Kubert | 1st appearance of Damian Wayne (cameo). Start of Grant Morrison's legendary Batman run. | Sep 2006 |
| Batman #656 | Grant Morrison, Andy Kubert | 1st full appearance of Damian Wayne. | Oct 2006 |
| 52 #7 | Geoff Johns, Grant Morrison, Greg Rucka, Mark Waid | 1st appearance of the modern Kate Kane (Batwoman). | Jun 2006 |
| 52 #11 | Geoff Johns, Grant Morrison, Greg Rucka, Mark Waid | 1st appearance of Kate Kane as Batwoman in costume. | Jul 2006 |
| Action Comics #844 | Geoff Johns, Richard Donner, Adam Kubert | 1st appearance of Lor-Zod (Chris Kent). Start of the "Last Son" storyline. | Dec 2006 |
| Infinite Crisis #7 | Geoff Johns, Phil Jimenez | Final issue of Infinite Crisis. Death of Earth-Two Superman (Kal-L). 1st appearance of the modern Multiverse (cameo). | Jun 2006 |
| 52 #1 | Geoff Johns, Grant Morrison, Greg Rucka, Mark Waid | Launch of the historic year-long weekly series. 1st appearance of the modern Intergang and Ralph Dibny's investigation. | May 2006 |
| Justice League of America #1 | Brad Meltzer, Ed Benes | Relaunch of the JLA. 1st appearance of the new roster including Vixen, Red Arrow, and Black Lantern. | Oct 2006 |
| Blue Beetle #1 | Keith Giffen, John Rogers, Cully Hamner | First issue of Jaime Reyes' ongoing series. 1st appearance of the Reach (cameo). | May 2006 |
| Wonder Woman #1 | Allan Heinberg, Terry Dodson | "One Year Later" relaunch. Donna Troy officially assumes the mantle of Wonder Woman. | Aug 2006 |
| 52 #12 | Geoff Johns, Grant Morrison, Greg Rucka, Mark Waid | 1st appearance of Adrianna Tomaz (Isis). | Jul 2006 |
| Justice Society of America #1 | Geoff Johns, Dale Eaglesham | Relaunch of the JSA. 1st appearance of the modern Cyclone (Maxine Hunkel) and Damage (Grant Emerson). | Feb 2007 (Dec 2006 ship) |
| Aquaman: Sword of Atlantis #40 | Kurt Busiek, Butch Guice | 1st appearance of Arthur Joseph Curry as the new Aquaman. Major "One Year Later" shift. | May 2006 |
| Green Lantern #10 | Geoff Johns, Ivan Reis | 1st appearance of the modern Manhunters (relaunch). | May 2006 |
| Batman #658 | Grant Morrison, Andy Kubert | 1st appearance of the Ghost Dragons and key Damian Wayne development. | Dec 2006 |
| Checkmate #1 | Greg Rucka, Jesus Saiz | Launch of the acclaimed political espionage series. 1st appearance of the modern White Queen and Black King structure. | Jun 2006 |
DC COMICS: 2007 KEY ISSUE CATALOG
| ISSUE TITLE & NUMBER | CREATORS | WHY IT IS A KEY | COVER DATE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Green Lantern: Sinestro Corps Special #1 | Geoff Johns, Ethan Van Sciver | Start of the "Sinestro Corps War." 1st appearance of many Sinestro Corps members (Bedovian, Despotellis, Karu-Sil). | Aug 2007 |
| Batman #666 | Grant Morrison, Andy Kubert | 1st appearance of Batman 666 (Damian Wayne in a possible future where he has sold his soul). | Jul 2007 |
| Green Lantern #25 | Geoff Johns, Ivan Reis, Ethan Van Sciver | 1st cameo appearance of Atrocitus, Larfleeze, and Saint Walker. First appearance of the Blue Lantern Corps and the Indigo Tribe. | Jan 2008 (Dec 2007 ship) |
| Detective Comics #827 | Paul Dini, Don Kramer | 1st appearance of Peyton Riley as the second Ventriloquist. | Mar 2007 |
| Booster Gold #1 | Geoff Johns, Jeff Katz, Dan Jurgens | First issue of Volume 2. Booster Gold begins his career as the secret "Time Master" protector of the DC timeline. | Oct 2007 |
| Action Comics #850 | Geoff Johns, Richard Donner, Kurt Busiek | Official return of the Pre-Crisis Legion of Super-Heroes to mainstream DC continuity. | Aug 2007 |
| Blue Beetle #15 | John Rogers, Cully Hamner | Renee Montoya officially assumes the mantle of The Question. | Jul 2007 |
| Green Arrow/Black Canary #1 | Judd Winick, Cliff Chiang | Launch of the duo series following their wedding. 1st appearance of Connor Hawke as the "new" Green Arrow of the series. | Dec 2007 |
| Justice Society of America #10 | Geoff Johns, Dale Eaglesham | 1st appearance of the "Kingdom Come" Superman in the mainstream DC Universe. | Dec 2007 |
| Green Lantern #18 | Geoff Johns, Ivan Reis | 1st appearance of the Sinestro Corps (cameo/preview). Reveal of Sinestro's yellow power ring army. | May 2007 |
| Batman #663 | Grant Morrison, John Van Fleet | "The Clown at Midnight." Iconic prose-style issue with CGI art. Radical new psychological look and tone for the Joker. | Apr 2007 |
| Teen Titans #44 | Geoff Johns, Tony Daniel | 1st appearance of the modern Enigma (daughter of the Riddler). | Mar 2007 |
| Green Lantern Corps #14 | Dave Gibbons, Patrick Gleason | Sodam Yat officially assumes the power of Ion. Major chapter in the Sinestro Corps War. | Sep 2007 |
| Justice League of America #10 | Brad Meltzer, Ed Benes | 1st appearance of the modern Libra (as a prelude to Final Crisis). | Aug 2007 |
| Countdown #51 | Various | Launch of the weekly series leading into Final Crisis. 1st appearance of Forerunner (Viza'Aziv). | May 2007 |
| Suicide Squad: Raise the Flag #1 | John Ostrander, Javier Pina | Return of Rick Flag Jr. to the Suicide Squad. Relaunch of the classic team concept. | Nov 2007 |
| Black Canary #1 | Tony Bedard, Paulo Siqueira | Launch of the solo mini-series featuring Black Canary's modern origin and the debut of Sin. | Jun 2007 |
| Death New Gods #1 | Jim Starlin | Launch of the mini-series systematically killing off the Fourth World characters in preparation for Final Crisis. | Dec 2007 |
DC COMICS: 2008 KEY ISSUE CATALOG
| ISSUE TITLE & NUMBER | CREATORS | WHY IT IS A KEY | COVER DATE |
|---|---|---|---|
| DC Universe #0 | Grant Morrison, Geoff Johns, George Pérez | 1st appearance of the modern Libra. Death of Orion. Brief return/cameo of Barry Allen. Prelude to Final Crisis. | Jun 2008 |
| Final Crisis #1 | Grant Morrison, J.G. Jones | 1st appearance of Nix Uotan (the Last Monitor) and the Super-Young Team. Start of the Multiverse-threatening event. | Jul 2008 |
| Batman #676 | Grant Morrison, Tony Daniel | Start of "Batman R.I.P." 1st appearance of the Black Glove (as an organization). | Jun 2008 |
| Green Lantern #29 | Geoff Johns, Ivan Reis | 1st full appearance of Atrocitus. Start of the "Secret Origin" arc. | May 2008 |
| Final Crisis: Rage of the Red Lanterns #1 | Geoff Johns, Shane Davis | 1st appearance of the Red Lantern Corps (Laira, Vice, Ratchet). 1st appearance of Bleez. | Dec 2008 |
| Batman #678 | Grant Morrison, Tony Daniel | 1st modern appearance of the Batman of Zur-En-Arrh. One of the most iconic "Modern Age" Batman issues. | Aug 2008 |
| Final Crisis #3 | Grant Morrison, J.G. Jones | The official, full return of Barry Allen to the DC Universe. | Sep 2008 |
| Green Lantern #35 | Geoff Johns, Ivan Reis | 1st full appearance of Saint Walker and the Blue Lantern Corps. | Nov 2008 |
| Detective Comics #846 | Paul Dini, Dustin Nguyen | Start of "Heart of Hush." A definitive modern Hush story redefining the Thomas Elliot/Bruce Wayne rivalry. | Sep 2008 |
| Final Crisis #6 | Grant Morrison, J.G. Jones, Carlos Pacheco | The "Death" of Batman (Bruce Wayne) at the hands of Darkseid. | Jan 2009 (Nov 2008 ship) |
| Batman #681 | Grant Morrison, Tony Daniel | Finale of "Batman R.I.P." 1st appearance of the "Suit of Sorrows" in mainstream continuity. | Dec 2008 |
| Green Lantern Corps #29 | Peter Tomasi, Patrick Gleason | 1st cameo appearance of Larfleeze (Agent Orange). 1st appearance of the Orange Lantern Corps battery. | Dec 2008 |
| Tiny Titans #1 | Art Baltazar, Franco Aureliani | 1st appearance of the Tiny Titans version of the DC Universe. Launch of the award-winning series. | Apr 2008 |
| Final Crisis: Revelations #1 | Greg Rucka, Philip Tan | 1st appearance of The Radiant (God's Mercy). Key development for The Question (Renee Montoya). | Oct 2008 |
| Joker (Original Graphic Novel) | Brian Azzarello, Lee Bermejo | Dark, gritty, noir reimagining of the Joker. 1st appearance of the Lee Bermejo aesthetic for the Joker and Killer Croc. | Oct 2008 |
| Ambush Bug: Year None #1 | Keith Giffen, Robert Loren Fleming | First issue of the satirical mini-series mocking the Infinite Crisis/52 era of DC. | Sep 2008 |
| Batman: Gotham After Midnight #1 | Steve Niles, Kelley Jones | Launch of the acclaimed horror-influenced Batman series featuring Kelley Jones' signature expressionist art. | Jul 2008 |
| Trinity #1 | Kurt Busiek, Mark Bagley | Launch of the 52-issue weekly series focusing on the relationship between Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman. | Jun 2008 |
DC COMICS: 2009 KEY ISSUE CATALOG
| ISSUE TITLE & NUMBER | CREATORS | WHY IT IS A KEY | COVER DATE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blackest Night #1 | Geoff Johns, Ivan Reis | Start of the massive Blackest Night event. 1st appearance of the Black Lantern Corps. | Sep 2009 |
| Batman and Robin #1 | Grant Morrison, Frank Quitely | Dick Grayson officially becomes Batman; Damian Wayne officially becomes Robin. 1st appearance of Professor Pyg. | Aug 2009 |
| Detective Comics #854 | Greg Rucka, J.H. Williams III | Start of the iconic Batwoman (Kate Kane) run. 1st appearance of Alice (Beth Kane). | Aug 2009 |
| Flash: Rebirth #1 | Geoff Johns, Ethan Van Sciver | Barry Allen's official return to a starring role in the DC Universe. | Jun 2009 |
| Batgirl #1 | Bryan Q. Miller, Lee Garbett | Stephanie Brown officially assumes the mantle of Batgirl. | Oct 2009 |
| Batman: Battle for the Cowl #1 | Tony Daniel | Start of the event to decide who will succeed Bruce Wayne as Batman. | May 2009 |
| Green Lantern #39 | Geoff Johns, Ivan Reis | 1st full appearance of Larfleeze (Agent Orange). | May 2009 |
| Red Robin #1 | Chris Yost, Ramon Bachs | Tim Drake officially assumes the identity of Red Robin. | Aug 2009 |
| Green Lantern #43 | Geoff Johns, Doug Mahnke | Origin of Black Hand. 1st appearance of the Black Lantern Power Battery. | Sep 2009 |
| Gotham City Sirens #1 | Paul Dini, Guillem March | First issue of the team-up series featuring Catwoman, Harley Quinn, and Poison Ivy. | Aug 2009 |
| Blackest Night #4 | Geoff Johns, Ivan Reis | 1st appearance of Nekron in the modern era. Key turning point in the event. | Dec 2009 |
| Batman #686 | Neil Gaiman, Andy Kubert | "Whatever Happened to the Caped Crusader?" Part 1. A legendary meta-tribute to Batman's history. | Apr 2009 |
| Adventure Comics #1 | Geoff Johns, Francis Manapul | 1st appearance of the modern, resurrected Superboy (Conner Kent). | Oct 2009 |
| Superman: Secret Origin #1 | Geoff Johns, Gary Frank | Launch of the definitive Post-Infinite Crisis origin for Superman. | Nov 2009 |
| Power Girl #1 | Jimmy Palmiotti, Justin Gray, Amanda Conner | Launch of the critically acclaimed and fan-favorite solo series. | Jul 2009 |
| Blackest Night: Tales of the Corps #1 | Geoff Johns, Peter Tomasi | 1st appearance of Indigo-1 and the Indigo Tribe (Munk). | Sep 2009 |
| Doom Patrol #1 | Keith Giffen, Matthew Clark | Launch of Volume 5. 1st appearance of the modern animal-human hybrids. | Oct 2009 |
| Batman #687 | Judd Winick, Ed Benes | Dick Grayson officially dons the cowl in the main Batman title for the first time since Prodigal. | Aug 2009 |