Batman - Dark Gray Suit, Silver Breastplate (Batman Returns)
sh016c · Super Heroes
DC Universe - Batman · 2012 (First edition/re-release context)
Figure ID
sh016c
Theme
Super Heroes
Year Released
2012 (First edition/re-release context)
Rarity
Uncommon / Rare (Set limited). While the base character is common, this specific silver-accented printing and the Dark Gray cowl/body combination were exclusive to specific sets like the Batman: The Dynamic Duo Funhouse Escape (6857).
Head
Light Flesh head with white headband printing to mimic the cowl eyes. Dual-sided: one side has a grimace/scowl, the other has a neutral/angry look. Covered by a Dark Gray Mask/Cowl with short ears.
Torso
Dark Gray with Silver and Black printing. Design features a stylized Bat-logo in silver and muscular 'armor' plating. Back printing continues the muscular definition and utility belt strap. Light Gray arms and Dark Gray hands.
Legs
Dark Gray legs with silver and black printing on the hips and front of the thighs, continuing the pointed armor plating design from the torso.
Accessories
Includes a large Black Batarang (often used as a handheld wing/weapon). A black fabric cape (stiff or soft depending on the production run year) is attached at the neck.
Color Scheme
A monochrome palette of Dark Gray (body), Light Gray (arms), Silver (accent printing), and Black (Cape/Accessories). Matches the gritty, industrial aesthetic of early 2010s DC sets.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing. The metallic silver ink has excellent reflectivity. Note the complex line work on the groin/thigh area which was advanced for the 2012 era.
Variants
sh016 (standard version), sh016a (different head), and this version sh016c which features the specific Dark Gray cowl and silver highlights. The variant in the image appears to have Light Gray arms, which distinguishes it from the blue-accented Comic versions.
Condition Notes
The silver printing is prone to scratching. Check the neck of the cape for fraying. Dark gray plastic is relatively durable against yellowing but shows teeth marks or 'play wear' easily on the cowl ears.
Estimated Value
Used: $15 - $25; New/Mint: $35 - $50. Value fluctuates based on cape crispness and lack of silver print fading.
Price (New)
Included in sets ranging from $39.99 (6857) to $49.99 (6860). As a licensed figure, it carried a high value-per-part ratio at release.
Compatible Sets
6857 The Dynamic Duo Funhouse Escape, 6860 The Batcave.
Character Background
Based on a composite design of the '90s film era (Batman Returns) and the New 52 comic aesthetic. Replaced the 2006-2008 'Light Gray' Batman with a more modern, tactical look.
Design Notes
The cowl mold used here is the 'short-eared' version which became the standard for nearly a decade. The use of light gray arms on a dark gray body mimics the color-blocking of comic book illustrations.
Similar Minifigures
sh002 (Classic Gray/Blue), sh204 (BvS Armored Batman), sh151 (Justice League Batman).
Collectibility
High. This is a foundational figure for any DC LEGO collection, representing the transition from 'classic' LEGO Batman to the modern highly-detailed era.
History
Released during the 2012 relaunch of the DC Super Heroes line, marking the first time Batman returned to shelves since the 2008 retirement of the original Batman theme.
Interesting Facts
The 'Funhouse Escape' set this figure appeared in was originally intended as a LEGO Shop exclusive, making the figure harder to find initially than the standard Batcave version.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed with a LEGO black street lamp or on a gargoyle-style MOC build. Pairs perfectly with the 2012-era Joker (sh005).
Modification Potential
The torso and legs are popular for 'Batman Beyond' custom figures or tactical urban soldiers due to the metallic armor printing.
Overall Assessment
A 9/10 classic. While many Batman variants exist, this 'Silver Plated' version remains one of the most aesthetically balanced and recognizable figures of the second-generation Super Heroes line.