Batman - Black Suit, Yellow Belt and Crest, Type 1 Cowl
bat001 · Batman / DC Super Heroes
Batman (Original Wave 1) · 2006. Debuted in sets 7779, 7780, and 7782 during the initial launch of the LEGO Batman theme.
Figure ID
bat001
Theme
Batman / DC Super Heroes
Year Released
2006. Debuted in sets 7779, 7780, and 7782 during the initial launch of the LEGO Batman theme.
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare. While it appeared in three sets, these were from the very first Batman wave which had a shorter production run compared to modern DC sets.
Head
Flesh-colored head with a wide smirk and a white headband printed at the top to create the 'white eyes' effect when the cowl is placed over it.
Torso
Black torso with yellow Batman crest (oval) and a high-detail yellow utility belt. Features muscle definition printing in dark bluish gray.
Legs
Plain black legs with no printing.
Accessories
Short-eared black cowl (Type 1), a black fabric cape with 3-point scalloped edges, and a black grappling hook gun (as seen in the image).
Color Scheme
Primary Black with striking Yellow accents for the logo and belt. Secondary accents in Dark Bluish Gray for pectoral/abdominal definition.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the torso. The yellow logo is opaque and sharp, which was a landmark for 2006 printing standards. No back printing was standard for this era.
Variants
This is the core 2006 version. A similar version (bat001a) exists with a different cowl mold (Type 2) released slightly later.
Condition Notes
Common wear includes fraying on the fabric cape, 'bite marks' on the cowl's ears, and torso cracks under the arms. The white eye band on the head often rubs off over time.
Estimated Value
Used: $25–$40; New/Mint: $60–$90. Value varies significantly based on the crispness of the cape and lack of torso cracks.
Price (New)
Original sets ranged from $9.99 (7779 Batman Dragster) to $49.99 (7782 Batwing). Highly affordable at retail in 2006.
Compatible Sets
7779 The Batman Dragster: Catwoman City Chase, 7780 The Batboat: Hunt for Killer Croc, 7782 The Batwing: The Joker's Aerial Assault.
Character Background
Representing the classic comic book appearance of Bruce Wayne, specifically inspired by the 1989 film aesthetic merged with comic styles.
Design Notes
This figure set the blueprint for all future Batman figures. The 'white headband' technique for the cowl eyes was an iconic design solution of the mid-2000s.
Similar Minifigures
bat002 (Grey suit version), sh016 (2012 reboot Batman), and the 1989 UCS Batman (sh607).
Collectibility
High. As the first-ever LEGO Batman minifigure, it is a cornerstone of any superhero collection and holds nostalgic value for '00s collectors.
History
Preceded by no one; this was the debut. It survived as the primary Batman design until the DC Universe Super Heroes line relaunched in 2012.
Interesting Facts
The bat-logo on this torso is slightly different from the 2012 version, featuring more 'rounded' wing tips consistent with 2000s branding.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed in a 2006-era Batcave MOC or a shadow box alongside the 2006 Joker and Catwoman figures.
Modification Potential
Commonly used for 'purist' 1989 movie customs before official movie-specific sets were released in 2019.
Overall Assessment
9/10 for historical significance. It is an essential 'Grail' piece for DC fans, representing the birth of LEGO's licensed superhero era.