DC Comics, Batman: The Killing Joke, 1988

HIGHER CALLING AUCTIONS ONLINE PERSONAL PROPERTY AUCTION TERMS AND CONDITIONSFEES & TAXESBuyer’s Premium: 12% added to final bid priceCredit Card Fee: 4% on all credit and debit card transactionsShipping/Handling Fee:  * Minimum $5.00 per invoice  * All shipping fees are calculated through Shipping Saint  Reschedule Fee: $25.00 for pickups outside scheduled dates/timesTaxes: Applied as required by law; noted per auctionDisposal Fee: $45.00 if items are not picked up within 30 days of auction closeRegistration:Welcome to Higher Calling Auctions' ONLINE ONLY auction. To participate, please complete our online registration process and agree to all terms.By registering, you acknowledge that you have read and agree to be bound by the Auction Terms and Conditions. Your registration confirms that you fully understand these terms and unconditionally accept them.BIDDER REGISTERING TO BID IN THE AUCTION CONFIRMS THAT BIDDER FULLY UNDERSTANDS THESE TERMS OF AUCTION AND UNCONDITIONALLY AND IRREVOCABLY AGREES TO BE BOUND BY THEM, ALONG WITH ANY ADDITIONS, DELETIONS, DISCOVERIES, AND/OR REVISIONS PUBLISHED TO THIS DOCUMENT BY AUCTIONEER BEFORE THE COMMENCEMENT OF THE AUCTION.Item Condition and Sales Policy:All items are sold AS IS, WHERE IS, with NO WARRANTY expressed or implied. Bidders are responsible for assessing item conditions and bidding accordingly. All items, even if labeled "new in box," are considered previously owned and may not be in full retail condition.We urge you to read all descriptions and Terms carefully before bidding. To maintain auction integrity, no refunds will be issued for any reason. Our team is available to address any questions about items or the auction process.Item Descriptions and Photos:Please note: Items in photos may be grouped or connected for display purposes only. Each lot's contents are specifically detailed in the written description, not determined by the photograph.We recommend carefully reading each lot description to understand exactly what is included. The written information takes precedence over any visual representations.In rare instances, an incorrect photo may be displayed. Your thorough review of lot descriptions ensures informed bidding decisions. If you're unsure about a lot's contents, please contact our office for clarification before bidding.Bidding Responsibility and Finality:All bids are final, and you cannot remove or lower a bid once placed. We encourage you to conduct due diligence before bidding. If you're unsure about an item's condition, completeness, or suitability, please ask us beforehand.Bidding on the wrong item or changing your mind does not justify bid removal. Our clients cannot bear the cost of bidder mistakes. All sales are final, and no credit card chargebacks will be allowed. Buyers assume full responsibility for purchases when bidding ends and they're the highest bidder.Auction Company Rights and Policies:We reserve the right to refuse service to anyone.The most recent correspondence with buyers via email or our website takes precedence over written material and any prior verbal statements.The auction company is not responsible for accidents, thefts, errors or omissions.The auctioneer reserves the right to add or remove items from the auction, split or combine lots, add minimum bids or reserve prices, cancel, suspend, extend or reschedule an individual item and/or auction event, or make changes to the auction closing, inspection, or removal times.These policies ensure a fair and efficient auction process for all participants. By participating in our auctions, you acknowledge and agree to these terms.BUYERS PREMIUM:A buyer's premium will be added to each purchase. Buyer's premium is 12% unless stated otherwise. If you bid $100.00, at checkout you will be charged $112.00. Each and every time you place a bid, you are required to confirm and agree to the bid.Extended Bidding and Staggered Endings Policy:Our auctions feature EXTENDED BIDDING. If a bid is placed on a lot within the last TWO minutes of the auction, bidding will extend on that lot for TWO minutes past the closing time. The lot will remain open until there are no bids during the extended time period. This only affects lots with last-minute bids. Lots without bids in the last two minutes will close as scheduled.Example: If you bid on a lot closing at 6:45 pm at 6:44 pm, it will extend until 6:47 pm. A bid at 6:46 pm will further extend it to 6:49 pm. The lot closes when the timer runs out. Check the countdown timer to see remaining bid time for any lot.Extending a lot's end time doesn't change subsequent lots' end times, so lots may close out of sequence.Our auctions use STAGGERED ENDINGS. When we say an auction closes at 6:45 p.m., this is when the system begins closing lots, but only a limited number at a time. Due to this staggered approach and extended bidding, auctions typically end later than the scheduled time. Please consider this when planning your bidding strategy, especially for lots later in the sequence.Maximum Bidding:This auction features MAXIMUM BIDDING. When you place your MAX BID, the current bid price increases only when others bid. The system automatically bids for you in specified increments up to your max. If outbid, you'll have the opportunity to enter a new MAX BID.You'll receive outbid notices via email. Please check your SPAM folders to ensure you don't miss these important notifications. If you can't monitor the auction closing, we HIGHLY RECOMMEND entering your MAX BID. Remember, you can raise your max bid, but you CANNOT lower it.For any questions, please call us at 636-344-0663.Bidding System Reliability:Higher Calling Auctions strives for a smooth bidding experience, but we're not responsible for internet issues, connection losses, or system glitches that may interfere with last-minute bids or notifications. High system traffic in the final seconds may delay bid processing. Plan your bidding strategy accordingly to avoid potential disappointment.Email Responsibility:A valid email address is required for auction participation. Ensure your server accepts our emails, as this is our sole communication method for all auction processes. If you're not receiving our emails, contact us promptly for troubleshooting. Check spam folders and whitelist our domain. We don't provide alternative communication methods, so maintaining a functioning email is crucial for your auction involvement.Payment Terms:All accounts must be settled by the conclusion of the auction Pickup unless specifically outlined otherwise. Payment options include cash, in-state personal check (PHOTO ID REQUIRED), or credit card at in-person pickup. Buyers may also pay in advance using a credit card through the invoice tab of their bidder profile. A 4% convenience fee applies to all credit card transactions, whether in-person or in advance. No out-of-state checks are accepted. Payment is required before item loading.A valid credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover) is required for bidding approval. A pre-auction authorization will be performed to establish available credit, which may result in a temporary hold on funds. No charges will be made until a purchase is confirmed. We only accept USD currency.Each transaction to collect insufficient funds incurs a $45 fee.Payment Policy:If payment is not received by the end of Pickup, Higher Calling Auctions will charge your registration credit card for the following: Purchase Price, Buyer's Premium, any hauling/handling charges, applicable taxes, and a 4% convenience fee. This charge will be applied to the credit card submitted at registration, up to a maximum of $1500. We strongly encourage timely payment to avoid automatic charges and additional fees.If charges are declined by the credit card processor, a non-sufficient funds charge of $45.00 will be applied each time processing is denied. The buyer will be notified of NSF transactions through e-mail and given 24 hours to contact Higher Calling Auctions with an alternative payment method. Prompt response to these notifications is crucial to avoid additional fees and potential bidding restrictions.Payment Policy for Out-of-State Buyers:For buyers with a registered address outside of Missouri, Higher Calling Auctions will process credit card payments immediately upon purchase. This policy ensures secure transactions for out-of-state buyers and helps streamline the payment process. Please ensure your credit card information is up-to-date and has sufficient funds available. The standard 4% convenience fee applies to these transactions. If you have any concerns about immediate credit card processing, please contact our office before placing bids.Payment Policy for Large Purchases:Any invoice exceeding $2,500.00 requires payment by cash, wire transfer, or certified funds, unless alternative arrangements are made with Higher Calling Auctions prior to the sale's end. Credit/debit cards are not accepted for invoices over $2,500.00. Cashier's checks are accepted under the following conditions: Must be from a local bank and funds will be verified before the release of any purchased items. We strongly recommend contacting us in advance for large purchases to ensure a smooth transaction process.Title Distribution Policy:Titles, if applicable, will be disbursed on the auction Pickup day ONLY IF payment is made in cash. For all other payment methods, titles will be processed and mailed 14 days after the auction Pickup, contingent upon confirmed payment. This policy ensures secure transaction processing and allows for proper verification of non-cash payments. Please plan accordingly if immediate title transfer is crucial for your purchase.Pickup Policy:Winning bidders must schedule pickup times using the invoice link provided. Adhere strictly to your scheduled time; no early arrivals permitted. If running late, text 636-344-0663. A $25.00 fee will be charged for requesting pickup dates or times outside those listed. We strongly encourage ensuring your availability for the designated pickup date/time to avoid additional charges.Buyers are responsible for all aspects of item removal, including dismantling, disconnecting, and providing necessary packing materials, equipment, and manpower. If you cannot pickup personally, send a representative; otherwise, items may be forfeited, potentially incurring fees.Ensure you receive and retain your paid invoice email, as it must be presented before loading items. Only fully paid items can be removed. Any items left on-site after pickup or remaining after 30 days become property of Higher Calling Auctions without refund.Removal and Hauling Policy:Higher Calling Auctions will charge a hauling fee of $25.00 or more per item for any items we must remove from the sale site. This fee also applies when buyers leave part of a lot behind or fail to attend Pickup without prior approval. To avoid these charges, remove all parts of your purchased lots and attend your scheduled Pickup time. If unable to comply, contact us in advance for alternative arrangements.Pickup Assistance and Efficiency Policy:Higher Calling Auctions reserves the right to charge a fee to buyers who arrive without adequate help, requiring our staff's assistance. We may also refuse to move items that buyers cannot handle themselves. If your additional help arrives outside scheduled pickup times, we will not wait. Unprepared buyers may be asked to wait while we assist those who came ready.This policy ensures efficient pickups and fairness to all buyers and our seller. Come prepared with sufficient help and equipment to move your items promptly. We prioritize assisting buyers who are ready to load quickly to maintain a smooth pickup process for everyone involved.Liability for Damages During Pickup:Buyers assume full responsibility for any damage caused during the removal of their purchased items. This includes damage to the individual item being removed, other items, or the pickup location itself. We strongly advise careful handling and proper equipment use during item retrieval. If you're unsure about safely removing an item, please consult with our staff before attempting removal. Higher Calling Auctions is not liable for any damages resulting from buyer negligence or improper handling during the pickup process.Shipping Terms and ConditionsShipping is available for most SMALL and MEDIUM items. Please carefully review the following important shipping information:Invoice and Shipping Payment:Once invoiced, you'll receive an email from Shipping Saint to schedule pickup or request shipping.If shipping is requested, Higher Calling Auctions will immediately charge the credit card on file unless the auction invoice is already paid.Items will only be shipped after both the auction invoice and shipping invoice are paid in full.Packing and Shipping Details:Most small and medium items are packed and shipped directly by Higher Calling Auctions.All shipments require insurance covering the full final invoice amount, including Buyer's Premium.Third-party shipping labels are not accepted.Shipping Charges Include:Packing labor fees.Cost of shipping supplies (new boxes, bubble wrap, paper, and packing peanuts).Retail shipping charges based on weight, size, and destination.Additional Shipping Information:Shipping quotes can be provided upon request and will be based on a 16x16x16 box weighing 10 lbs. Buyers must provide their zip code. All quotes originate from HCA pickup location zip code 63390.Any quotes provided prior to auction close are estimates only and will be updated based on actual package weight, size, and quantity.Once packed, items are held until shipping charges and fees are fully paid (insurance requirement).Refunds are not provided due to shipping costs being higher than expected.If items require transfer back to our facility from an onsite auction, a handling fee of $5.00 per lot applies, capped at $50.00 total.Special Notes:Shipping availability varies per item. Confirm eligibility by contacting [email protected] BEFORE bidding.No international shipping.We do NOT offer pallet or freight shipping. For large items, buyers may arrange their own freight or moving company for pickup, which must be done on the scheduled Pickup Day, with packaging handled by the third party.Contact [email protected] BEFORE bidding to inquire about shipping eligibility. NO INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING.We don't offer pallet/freight shipping. Large shipments incur extra handling fees. You may hire a moving/freight company for pickup on scheduled Pickup Day, but they must handle packaging, loading, rigging and securing.Property Condition and Sale Policy:All property is sold AS-IS, WHERE-IS, and ALL SALES ARE FINAL. Bidders are responsible for inspecting items during the Preview to determine condition, age, authenticity, value, and other factors. While Higher Calling Auctions may describe merchandise in advertising and online, we make no representations or warranties.Higher Calling Auctions is not responsible for any implied warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. Bidders are the sole judges of value. Items labeled NIB/New in Box may have been handled during Preview. We strive to maintain item condition as photographed, but all property remains AS-IS, and ALL SALES ARE FINAL.Property Inspection and Bidding Policy:Bidders may request a preview by contacting [email protected]. Online bidders who do not attend the Preview acknowledge potential limitations in item inspection compared to in-person examination.It is the Bidder's responsibility to determine condition, age, authenticity, value, and other factors. Higher Calling Auctions will endeavor to provide detailed item descriptions and relevant information. However, we are not responsible for errors or omissions unless they constitute material and intentional misrepresentation of the item.By bidding, Bidders agree that all items are sold as-is and cannot be returned. This policy applies to all purchases, regardless of the bidder's ability to inspect items in person.Online Bidding Service Policy:Higher Calling Auctions provides Internet bidding as a service to Bidders. However, Bidders acknowledge that this service may not function correctly on the auction close day. Higher Calling Auctions bears no responsibility if the Internet service fails before or during the Online Auction, and Bidders waive any claims related to such failures.We are not responsible for missed bids from any source. Higher Calling Auctions reserves the right to withdraw or re-catalog items in this auction. We strive to provide a smooth bidding experience but encourage bidders to plan for potential technical issues by bidding early when possible.Auctioneer's Rights:The Auctioneer at Higher Calling Auctions reserves the right to accept bids in any increment deemed in the best interest of the Seller. Additionally, the Auctioneer may reject the bidding of any person whose conduct, actions, or comments are considered detrimental to the Seller or Auction Company's interests. These rights ensure a fair and efficient auction process that protects the interests of our clients. The Auctioneer's decisions in these matters are final and aimed at maintaining the integrity of the auction.Liability and Indemnification:By participating in this auction, the Purchaser agrees to indemnify and hold harmless Higher Calling Auctions and the Seller from any damages, claims, or liabilities arising from injuries to persons or property during the sale or removal of purchased items. The Purchaser assumes all risks and liabilities associated with the use of purchased items. Furthermore, the Purchaser agrees to defend, indemnify, and hold harmless Higher Calling Auctions and the Seller from any liability related to purchased items. This clause ensures that buyers take full responsibility for their purchases and actions during and after the auction process.Non-Compliance Consequences:If a purchaser fails to comply with these conditions or any other applicable terms, Higher Calling Auctions and the Seller reserve the following rights, in addition to other legal remedies: Resell the property publicly or privately, with the original purchaser liable for any price deficiency plus all incurred costs; or cancel the sale, retaining all payments made by the purchaser as liquidated damages. The Auctioneer's commission and all other incidental damages will be charged. The Auctioneer may choose either option at their discretion. These measures ensure the integrity of our auction process and protect the interests of our sellers and compliant bidders.Firearm Purchase Policy:Higher Calling Auctions strictly follows all firearm transfer laws. Missouri residents meeting age requirements complete transfers via local FFL dealers. Non-Missouri residents undergo FFL background checks, with transfers to their state's FFL dealer. A $20 handling fee per firearm applies, plus transfer and shipping costs.Out-of-state buyers must pay by wire transfer. Missouri residents must pick up and pay for firearms in person; no proxy pickups allowed. Buyers are responsible for meeting all legal ownership requirements before bidding.Settlement and Shipping Process for Jewelry:At the auction's conclusion, the credit card on file will be charged for the winning bid amount. Jewelry items will be shipped using the most cost-effective method available. The shipping charges, along with a tracking number, will be added to your invoice. Your credit card will then be charged for the shipping cost. Finally, you'll receive an emailed invoice detailing all charges. This streamlined process ensures prompt processing and delivery of your jewelry purchases while keeping you informed at every step.Truckload Auction Pallet Grading System:For truckload auctions, Higher Calling Auctions uses a grading system for pallets. All pallet sales are final with ABSOLUTELY NO REFUNDS OR CREDITS GIVEN.A-grade pallets are considered mostly new, though we don't guarantee all items will be undamaged. B-grade pallets contain straight store returns, potentially including new, used, damaged, and non-working items. These pallets are unsorted and untested. C-grade pallets have been sorted by our team and contain items rejected for individual sale, likely damaged, non-working, missing parts, or of low value.Buying bulk pallets inherently involves risk. We strongly recommend inspecting pallets in person before bidding, regardless of grade. This policy ensures transparency in our truckload auctions while emphasizing the buyer's responsibility in assessing pallet contents.

Pickup Instructions – Comic Book Auction
Location: 28699 Roelker Rd, Wright City, MO 63390

After the auction closes, winning bidders will receive an invoice from Higher Calling Auctions and a separate scheduling link from Shipping Saint. You’ll be able to choose a pickup time from the slots below or request shipping. All shipments will be processed within 14 days after the final pickup date.

Scheduled Pickup Dates:

Thursday, August 7, 2025 | 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Friday, August 8, 2025 | 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Saturday, August 9, 2025 | 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM