Batman - Black Suit, Yellow Utility Belt, Scowl
sh016a · DC Super Heroes
Batman · 2012 - Released during the major launch of the DC Universe Super Heroes line, coinciding with 'The Dark Knight Rises' but based on a more comic-book/classic aesthetic.
Figure ID
sh016a
Theme
DC Super Heroes
Year Released
2012 - Released during the major launch of the DC Universe Super Heroes line, coinciding with 'The Dark Knight Rises' but based on a more comic-book/classic aesthetic.
Rarity
Common - This figure was widely available in multiple sets and served as the standard 'modern' Batman for several years.
Head
Light Flesh dual-sided head with a white sweatband on the top (to create the white eyes when the cowl is on). One side features a scowl/frown, the other an angry expression.
Torso
Black torso with muscular padding print in dark grey, a yellow and black Bat-insignia, and a detailed yellow utility belt. Back printing continues the muscle and belt detail.
Legs
Plain black legs with no printing. Standard LEGO leg mold.
Accessories
Black soft-fabric cape (traditional 2-hole design) and a Black Cowl (Mold Style 2 - chin-less with short ears). Typically included Batarangs in original sets.
Color Scheme
Predominantly Black with Yellow and Dark Grey accents. The Light Flesh head provides the only skin tone.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the torso (front and back) and head. This version features the 'newer' style of utility belt printing compared to the 2006-2008 versions.
Variants
Variants include sh016 (different head print), sh132 (spongy cape), and various versions with 'Bat-Logos' that differ slightly in border thickness.
Condition Notes
Prone to fraying at the edge of the fabric cape and 'bite marks' on the soft plastic cowl. Dust is highly visible on the black surfaces.
Estimated Value
New: $10.00 - $15.00 | Used: $5.00 - $8.00 | Market value is stable due to the high volume produced.
Price (New)
Originally included in sets ranging from $12.99 (6858) to $69.99 (6864). Not sold as a standalone figure.
Compatible Sets
6858 Catwoman Catcycle City Chase, 6860 The Batcave, 6863 Batwing Battle Over Gotham City, 6864 Batmobile and the Two-Face Chase.
Character Background
Bruce Wayne, the Dark Knight of Gotham. This specific look is heavily inspired by the 'Modern Age' comics and the 1989/1992 cinematic oval logo.
Design Notes
A significant evolution from the 2006 series, utilizing the updated 'white headband' head-piece method to provide glowing eyes without a solid white head piece.
Similar Minifigures
sh016 (Original 2012 Batman), sh151 (Batman - Plastic Cape), sh002 (Comic-Con Exclusive), and the 2006 bat001 classic Batman.
Collectibility
Moderate. It is a staple for any DC collection, though its high availability prevents it from being a high-end investment piece.
History
Following the original 2006-2008 Batman line, this figure marked LEGO's return to the DC license in 2012, setting the standard for Batman figures for the next half-decade.
Interesting Facts
The 'white eyes' look is achieved through a white stripe printed across the forehead of the flesh-colored head, a design choice that remains the standard for LEGO Batman today.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed in a Gotham City MOC or a Hall of Armor style case alongside other Batman variants (Grey suit, Arctic suit, etc).
Modification Potential
Highly versatile for purist MOCs; the torso is frequently used for custom vigilante characters or updated comic-book versions of Batman.
Overall Assessment
The quintessential 'modern-classic' LEGO Batman. While common, its design is iconic, durable, and essential for any LEGO Super Heroes enthusiast.