Auctions: comic books in 'Batman'

Batman (1940) 120 FR/GD 1.5

1" Spine split from bottom with splitting to interior wraps. Cover and centerfold detached. Water damage.

Cover pencils by Curt Swan, inks by Stan Kaye. "The Curse of the Bat-Ring," pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; Batman uses a clever plan involving a jinx on a Bat-Ring, which crooks get the Caped Crusader to wear, hoping it will bring him bad luck. Sharing -- The United Nations Way public service announcement, art by George Roussos. "The Failure of Bruce Wayne," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; Called to his dying Uncle's bedside, Silas, Bruce is told by him that he is disappointed that Bruce has not continued the family tradition of adventure; Bruce sets out to prove Silas wrong. One-page Warden Willis story by Henry Boltinoff. End of a Hold-Up article. "The Airborne Batman," pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; While stopping a stampeding elephant, Batman injures his legs, giving the green light to crooks all over Gotham City to institute a reign of terror. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.10.

Batman (1940) 122 GD 2.0

Centerfold detached at one staple. Water damage.

Cover pencils by Curt Swan, inks by Stan Kaye. "Prisoners of the Sargasso Sea," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; While chasing a modern-day pirate, Blackjack, Batman and Robin are marooned in the Sargasso Sea; There they discover others who have been trapped for centuries by the seaweed and its strange, age-defying gas. Detective Comics #265 ad. One-page Strange Old Laws story by Henry Boltinoff. "The Cross Country Crimes!", script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; Batman and Robin foil Hijack and his gang, who have been robbing trucks of Carter trucking, including one containing platinum. "Double-Dealer in Diamonds" text story. One-page Warden Willis story by Henry Boltinoff. The Family Favorite! public service announcement, art by Bernard Baily. "The Marriage of Batman and Batwoman," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Ray Burnley; Dick Grayson goes to sleep while Bruce is out on a date with Kathy, and dreams of the loss of their secret identities caused by Bruce's and Kathy's marriage. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.10.

Batman (1940) 123 FR 1.0

1" Spine split from bottom. Tearing to interior margins. Water damage.

Cover pencils by Curt Swan, inks by Stan Kaye. "The Secret of the Everglades," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; While vacationing in Florida, Batman and Robin save the life of a Seminole Indian who has discovered a cache of valuable artifacts once belonging to a famed explorer that a group of thugs are after. The Brave and the Bold #23 ad. What's Your B.Q.*? (*Brotherhood Quotient) public service announcement, script by Jack Schiff, art by Bernard Baily. One-page Casey the Cop story by Henry Boltinoff. "The Joker's Practical Jokes!", script by Bill Finger, pencils by Dick Sprang, inks by Charles Paris; The Joker goes on a new crime spree, basing crimes on "occupational" practical jokes, like the "skyhook" and the "left-handed monkey-wrench." One-page Jail Jests story by Henry Boltinoff. Challengers of the Unknown #7 ad. Half-page Casey the Cop story by Henry Boltinoff. "The Telltale Ladder" text story. "The Fugitive Batman," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Stan Kaye; Robin and Ace, the Bat-Hound, acting on orders from Commissioner Gordon, attempt to track down a fugitive Batman. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.10.

Batman (1940) 124 FR/GD 1.5

Interior corner tearing (does not affect panel edges). Oxidation.

Cover pencils by Curt Swan, inks by Stan Kaye. "The Invisible Batman," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; Batman is subjected to an experimental oight that renders him invisible; However, smuggler Smiley Gober finds a way to make the Caped Crusader visible: by throwing flour on him. Fred Finds a Way! public service announcement, script by Jack Schiff, art by Bernard Baily. "The Return of Signalman," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; Having escaped from jail, the Signalman attempts to impress his fellow crooks, even in attempting to steal object from a Batman exhibit, but is stopped by the Caped Crusader time and time again. Off-Duty Hero article. One-page Jail Jests story by Henry Boltinoff. "The Mystery Seeds from Space," script by Dave Wood, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; Tracking down the source of weird, sonic vibrations, the Caped Crusaders discover the existence of some alien seeds from space, all powered by an alien meteorite, the last of which is a formidable robot. Half-page Casey the Cop story by Henry Boltinoff. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.10.

Batman (1940) 124 PR 0.5

Interior is complete. Severe water damage. Interior pen markings.

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Cover pencils by Curt Swan, inks by Stan Kaye. "The Invisible Batman," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; Batman is subjected to an experimental oight that renders him invisible; However, smuggler Smiley Gober finds a way to make the Caped Crusader visible: by throwing flour on him. Fred Finds a Way! public service announcement, script by Jack Schiff, art by Bernard Baily. "The Return of Signalman," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; Having escaped from jail, the Signalman attempts to impress his fellow crooks, even in attempting to steal object from a Batman exhibit, but is stopped by the Caped Crusader time and time again. Off-Duty Hero article. One-page Jail Jests story by Henry Boltinoff. "The Mystery Seeds from Space," script by Dave Wood, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; Tracking down the source of weird, sonic vibrations, the Caped Crusaders discover the existence of some alien seeds from space, all powered by an alien meteorite, the last of which is a formidable robot. Half-page Casey the Cop story by Henry Boltinoff. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.10.

Batman (1940) 125 FR 1.0

INCOMPLETE. Interior coupon cut, does not interrupt art or story. Cover detached at one staple.

Cover pencils by Curt Swan, inks by Stan Kaye. "The Secret Life of Bat-Hound," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff (as Bob Kane), inks by Charles Paris; After Ace is brought to permanently live at Wayne Manor by John Wilker, Bat-Hound goes into action with Batwoman to save the Caped Crusaders trapped in a cave-in. Half-page Crime Punishment! story. Tips on Summer Fun! public service announcement with Peter Porkchops, art by Rube Grossman. "The Last Days of Batman," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff (as Bob Kane), inks by Charles Paris; Carter Nichols sends the Dynamic Duo back to ancient Venice to gather evidence in a case, but only Batman returns, while Robin is shifted to Gotham City a few days into the future, where he discovers a new criminal will kill Batman. Half-page Warden Willis story by Henry Boltinoff. "King Batman the First," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Dick Sprang, inks by Sheldon Moldoff; While chasing down a wanted criminal, the Dynamic Duo are transported to another planet where Batman becomes king, albeit temporarily, as his being an alien causes him to be imprisoned. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.10.

Batman (1940) 126 FR/GD 1.5 (R)

Restored (see item notes)

RESTORATION. Color touch. Cover and centerfold detached.

Cover pencils by Curt Swan, inks by Stan Kaye. "The Mystery of the 49th Star," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; Batman is called to Alaska to recover 49 diamonds stolen from a rich tycoon. 2/3-page Casey the Cop story by Henry Boltinoff. Water: A Good Friend or Deadly Enemy -- Depending on You! public service announcement, art by Bernard Baily. "The Batman Lighthouse," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; While on patrol, the Caped Crusaders spot a signal given them by the lighthouse keeper, and the duo swing in to stop some foreign agents and a gang boss. "The Menace of the Firefly," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; While Bruce, Dick and Kathy attend a party, a mysterious criminal appears and robs everyone. When the Caped Crusader appears on the scene, Kathy suspects the host, Ted Carson, of being Batman...but she is due for a surprise! Letters column begins. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.10.

Batman (1940) 127 FR/GD 1.5

Centerfold detached. Water damage.

Cover pencils by Curt Swan, inks by Stan Kaye. "Batman's Super-Partner," script by Jerry Coleman, pencils by Dick Sprang, inks by Charles Paris; Accidently gaining super powers from a machine in the Bat-Cave, Alfred wants to use his powers to aid the Dynamic Duo, but he only hinders, not helps, them against the Joker. It's Fun to Learn! public service announcement, script by Jack Schiff, art by Bernard Baily. One-page Jail Jests story by Henry Boltinoff. "The Second Life of Batman," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Dick Sprang, inks by Charles Paris; Professor Nichols has created an alternate history machine and Bruce uses the device to see what would have happened if his parents had not have been killed. One-page Casey the Cop story by Henry Boltinoff. "The Hammer of Thor," script by Bill Finger, art by Sheldon Moldoff; When a hammer in a museum is struck by a meteorite, the charge affects the hammer and its force transforms a museum curator into Thor, God of Thunder, who begins to commit crimes. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.10.

Batman (1940) 129 GD+ 2.5

Cover oxidation with chipping. Water damage.

Cover by Sheldon Moldoff. "The Web of the Spinner," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; While Batman and Robin are tracking a criminal called the Spinner, Batwoman is checking out a mystic, whom she believes is running a scam operation. Detective Comics #275 ad. One-page Jail Jests story by Henry Boltinoff. The Brave and the Bold #28 ad. It's Fun to Help Others! public service announcement with Superboy, script by Jack Schiff, pencils by Curt Swan, inks by Stan Kaye. "The Man from Robin's Past," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; When stolen goods are found in the quarters of Sando the Strongman, a friend of the Grayson family who looked after Dick after his parents were murdered, Batman and Robin have to prove his innocence. Half-page Casey the Cop story by Henry Boltinoff. "Merriweather Jones--Crime Prophet!", script by Jerry Coleman, pencils by Dick Sprang, inks by Charles Paris; Merriweather Jones gets strange flashes that a crime is about occur and reports it to the police. Oddly enough, he's right; The Police believe Jones is in on the crimes and crooks believe he can help them hijack other crooks' stolen goods; It's up to Batman and Robin to save him from the crooks and clear him with the Police. World's Finest Comics #107 ad. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.10.

Batman (1940) 130 FR/GD 1.5

Lateral spine tearing. Centerfold detached at one staple.

Cover by Sheldon Moldoff. "Batman's Deadly Birthday," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Dick Sprang, inks by Stan Kaye; Gotham City prepares a number of fund-raising events to celebrate the anniversary of Batman's first case; At every event, however, criminals manage to make off with the proceeds. Detective Comics #276 ad. Buzzy's "Famous Books" Quiz public service announcement with Buzzy, script by Jack Schiff, art by Ruben Moreira. "The Master of Weapons," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; Graham is Paragon Pictures' technical director and designer of many historical weapons; While arguing with studio accountant Bailey over his need for more money, he takes a fall from a set piece, and is rushed to the hospital; Some time later, he vanishes from the hospital; One week later a new costumed villain hits Gotham, one armed with ancient weapons. Justice League of America ad. One-page Warden Willis story by Henry Boltinoff. "The Hand from Nowhere," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff (as Bob Kane), inks by Charles Paris; Batman investigates reports of a mysterious giant hand and some aliens present at thefts of seemingly worthless minerals. World's Finest Comics #108 ad. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.10.

Batman (1940) 134 FR 1.0

Centerfold detached.

Cover by Sheldon Moldoff. "The Rainbow Creature," script by Bill Finger, art by Sheldon Moldoff; The Caped Crusaders, in South America to provide assistance to a leader, encounter a strange rainbow-colored creature that has emerged from a volcano. One-page Jail Jests story by Henry Boltinoff. Bike Safety = Bike Fun! public service announcement, art by Bernard Baily. "Batman's Secret Enemy," script by Bill Finger, art by Sheldon Moldoff; Bruce receives a very disturbing letter from someone, indicating that they know Batman's secret identity; The Caped Crusaders cature three crooks, believing any one of them may have written the letter. Half-page Casey the Cop story by Henry Boltinoff. "The Deadly Dummy," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; Hurt deeply by people making fun of him because of his size, Danny decides to turn to crime and runs into the Caped Crusaders. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.10.

Batman (1940) 135 FR/GD 1.5

Heavy water damage. Staples added (not manufacturing).

Cover pencils by Dick Dillin and Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Sheldon Moldoff. "Crimes of the Wheel," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; The Dynamic Duo break up a gambling ring headed by "Wheels" Foster, but he manages to escape and threatens to kill the Caped Crusaders with a giant roulette wheel and its giant steel ball. How Are Your Shopping Manners? public service announcement, art by Bernard Baily. "The Return of the Second Batman and Robin Team," script by Bill Finger, art by Sheldon Moldoff; Batman's old foe, John Crandall, is released from jail and vows to destroy anything that is a monument to the Caped Crusader, and begins by captured the new Batman and Robin team. "The Menace of the Sky Creature," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; Two crooks come into possession of a sorcerer's lantern that can summon a mysterious sky creature and they use that being to battle the Caped Crusaders. One-page Warden Willis story by Henry Boltinoff. Full-page ad for Justice League of America # 1. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.10.

Batman (1940) 136 VG 4.0

1/2" Spine split from bottom.

Cover by Sheldon Moldoff. "The Case of the Crazy Crimes," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; To have "some fun," Bat-Mite creates a series of imaginary villains for the Batman to overcome. The Batman Whirly-Word Game puzzle page. Children of Tomorrow! public service announcement, script by Jack Schiff, art by Bernard Baily. "The Town that Hated Batman," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; Batman visits an old mining town seeking a criminal, but when he begins asking questions about the man, the people become hostile toward the Caped Crusader. One-page Warden Willis story by Henry Boltinoff. "The Challenge of the Joker," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; Batman faces the Joker, who, this time, uses the four basic elements to commit his crimes. One-page Strange Old Laws story by Henry Boltinoff. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.10.

Batman (1940) 136 GD+ 2.5

Centerfold detached. Water damage.

Cover by Sheldon Moldoff. "The Case of the Crazy Crimes," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; To have "some fun," Bat-Mite creates a series of imaginary villains for the Batman to overcome. The Batman Whirly-Word Game puzzle page. Children of Tomorrow! public service announcement, script by Jack Schiff, art by Bernard Baily. "The Town that Hated Batman," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; Batman visits an old mining town seeking a criminal, but when he begins asking questions about the man, the people become hostile toward the Caped Crusader. One-page Warden Willis story by Henry Boltinoff. "The Challenge of the Joker," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; Batman faces the Joker, who, this time, uses the four basic elements to commit his crimes. One-page Strange Old Laws story by Henry Boltinoff. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.10.

Batman (1940) 140 FR/GD 1.5

3.5" Cumulative spine split. Heavy water damage. Staples added (not manufacturing).

Cover by Sheldon Moldoff. "The Ghost of the Joker," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; The Joker appears to die during a prison escape, but his ghostly figure survives to commit crimes and taunt Batman from beyond the grave. Parents Have Rights, Too! public service announcement, art by Bernard Baily. "The Charmed Life of Batman!", script by Bill Finger, art by Sheldon Moldoff; Four professional underworld assassins try to bump off Batman, but fail after an alchemist has given the Caped Crusader a charmed life on a TV talk show through the use of a potion. One-page Lefty Looie story by Henry Boltinoff. "The Eighth Wonder of Space," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; After being transported to an alien world, Batman and Robin are accidentally turned into aliens with weird powers, but they still can help Batwoman tackle the Yellow Sweater Gang when they return. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.10.

Batman (1940) 141 FR/GD 1.5

2" Spine split from bottom. Heavy water damage.

Cover by Sheldon Moldoff. "The Crimes of the Clockmaster," script by Jerry Coleman, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; A strange clock arrives at Police HQ, which gives clues to up-coming crimes; Batman is able to correctly decipher the third clue in order to round up the Clockmaster. It's Fun to Serve! public service announcement, art by Bernard Baily. "The Race of Death," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; Batman and Robin are on the scene of the special Seth Baylor Cross Country race being held outside of Gotham City because they believe a murder will occur there. One-page Lefty Looie story by Henry Boltinoff. "Batwoman's Junior Partner," script by Bill Finger, art by Sheldon Moldoff; The publicity that Bat-Girl gets after having captured a criminal called the Moth results in the humiliated criminal seeking his revenge on her. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.10.

Batman (1940) 143 GD 2.0

Last 10-cent cover price. Cover by Sheldon Moldoff. "The Twice-Told Tale of Batman and Robin," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; After the Caped Crusaders round up a gang of jewel thieves, Robin fantasizes how the adventure would be retold in the future as a mythological tale involving giants and flying creatures. Half-page Jail Jests story by Henry Boltinoff. "The Blind Batman," script by Arnold Drake, art by Sheldon Moldoff; A bump on the head renders Batman blind temporarily, so he creates a set of radar ear plugs that allows him to combat criminals. A Message from Otto the Robot! public service announcement, art by Bernard Baily. "Bat-Hound and the Creature," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; While the Caped Crusaders battle Lippy Yates and his gang, Ace befriends a giant alien being, who eventually saves Batman's life. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.10.

Batman (1940) 145 GD 2.0

Water damage.

Cover by Sheldon Moldoff. "Hunt for Mr. 50," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; The Dynamic Duo trace a smuggling ring to Hawaii and travel there to confront them in order to locate the ring leader. Half-page Lefty Looie story by Henry Boltinoff. "The Tiniest Villain in the World," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; When the Caped Crusader learns that Joe Burr has kidnapped a noted inventor of a shrinking machine, Batman deliberately shrinks himself to miniature size to capture the villain. Let Science Serve You! public service announcement. "The Son of the Joker," script by Bill Finger, art by Sheldon Moldoff (as Bob Kane); In this imaginary story, penned by Alfred, trusted butler of Bruce Wayne, the Second Batman and Robin team run up against the Son of the Joker, who is using the tricks of the trade once used by his father! Full-page ads for Batman Annual 2 and Superman Annual 4. Statement of ownership; 485,000 average sales. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.12.

Batman (1940) 146 PR 0.5 (R)

Restored (see item notes)

INCOMPLETE. Piece missing, interrupts art and story. RESTORATION. Color touch. Full length spine split with severe interior tearing (interior taped).

Cover by Sheldon Moldoff. "Batman and Robin's Magical Powers," script by Jerry Coleman, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; When the Dynamic Duo save the life of a magician, he gives the Caped Crusaders certain powers, not realizing that when Batman and Robin use these powers, Bat-Mite is actually responsible for their amazing abilities. One-page Jail Jests story by Henry Boltinoff. "The Secret of the Leopard Boy," script by Bill Finger, art by Sheldon Moldoff; The Caped Crusaders follow Smiley Fenton to Africa, who wants to get the diamonds stolen by Joe Taylor, whose plane crashed in the jungle. One-page Fingerprint Curios story, art by Morris Waldinger. "The Deadly Curse of Korabo," script by Arnold Drake, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; Batman and Robin are called to the mountains to uncover the mystery of a giant hand that has been killing mountain climbers. From Many Lands public service announcement, art by Lou Cameron. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.12.

Batman (1940) 149 FR 1.0

6" Cumulative spine split. Cover detached.

Cover by Sheldon Moldoff. "The Maestro of Crime," script by Jerry Coleman, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; Angered because of poor reviews of his music concerts, Payne Cardine turns to crime; Batman then uses a music expert to decipher the clues left behind by Cardine as the Mastero of Crime. "The Invaders from the Past," script by Jerry Coleman, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; The appearance of strange men through portals and the kidnapping of the Caped Crusaders by two Vikings all lead to the eventual capture of two crooks perpetuating a hoax. Half-page Homer story by Henry Boltinoff. "Batman Tunes in on Murder," script by Jerry Coleman, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff inks by Charles Paris; The light reflected off the ring of a visiting Rajah allows Batman to tune in the thoughts of a person planning murder with a bomb. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.12.

Batman (1940) 150 FR/GD 1.5

Two center wraps detached at one staple. Heavy water damage.

Cover pencils by Jim Mooney, inks by Sheldon Moldoff. "The Secret Behind the Stone Door," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; The Caped Crusader goes undercover to learn about a fantastic underworld army being formed to overtake the country. Rules of Water Safety! public service announcement with Buzzy, art by Win Mortimer. "The Girl Who Stole Batman's Heart," script by Jerry Coleman, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; Affected by some weird love potion, Batman gives up crime fighting, forcing Robin to go it alone with a Batman robot as a partner while the Caped Crusader spends his time with a woman named Elsie. "Robin, the Super Boy Wonder," script by Bill Finger, art by Jim Mooney; When the Dynamic Duo are forced down over the Yucatan Plateau during a storm, Batman, accused of stealing emeralds from a native tribe, is shocked to learn that his partner no longer remembers him and has acquired super powers! 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.12.

Batman (1940) 153 CGC 7.5

Paper: Off white

Label #4727467016

Cover by Sheldon Moldoff. "Prisoners of Three Worlds," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; A strange alien arrives on Earth and begins stealing silver; When our four heroes begin pursuing him, they are all transported to different dimensions. True Crime Laffs humor/non-fiction page by Henry Boltinoff. Health Myths Debunked! public service announcement, script by Jack Schiff, art by Sheldon Moldoff. Half-page Shorty story by Henry Boltinoff. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.12.

Batman (1940) 153 GD- 1.8

RESTORATION. Color touch. Heavy water damage and interior tape. Staples added (not manufacturing).

Cover by Sheldon Moldoff. "Prisoners of Three Worlds," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; A strange alien arrives on Earth and begins stealing silver; When our four heroes begin pursuing him, they are all transported to different dimensions. True Crime Laffs humor/non-fiction page by Henry Boltinoff. Health Myths Debunked! public service announcement, script by Jack Schiff, art by Sheldon Moldoff. Half-page Shorty story by Henry Boltinoff. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.12.

Batman (1940) 153 FR/GD 1.5

Severe interior tearing. Staples added (not manufacturing). Water spotting.

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Cover by Sheldon Moldoff. "Prisoners of Three Worlds," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; A strange alien arrives on Earth and begins stealing silver; When our four heroes begin pursuing him, they are all transported to different dimensions. True Crime Laffs humor/non-fiction page by Henry Boltinoff. Health Myths Debunked! public service announcement, script by Jack Schiff, art by Sheldon Moldoff. Half-page Shorty story by Henry Boltinoff. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.12.

Batman (1940) 154 CGC 8.5

Paper: Off white to white

Label #4727469005

Cover pencils by Bob Kane, inks by Charles Paris. "Danger Strikes Four," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; As Dick begins reading Alfred's latest imaginary tale of Batman II and Robin II, he is called upon by the Caped Crusader to battle Big Al and his men, with all involved in circumstances strangely resembling Alfred's story. "The Amazing Odyssey of Batman and Robin," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; When the remains of the Bat-Boat are found, its log is sent to Commissioner Gordon, who announces that Batman is dead, leaving a stage magician free to commit his crimes! Safety First -- All Year! public service announcement, script by Jack Schiff, art by Sheldon Moldoff; Johnny discovers the hazards of leaving things lying around the home. "The Strange Experiment of Doctor Dorn," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; A large green creature is menacing Gotham City, so the Dynamic Duo are called in to assist, and they discover a way to get the creature to pass away, leaving Dr. Dorn free without any effect. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.12.

Batman (1940) 157 GD 2.0 (R)

Restored (see item notes)

RESTORATION. Color touch. Cover detached at one staple and centerfold detached.

Cover pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris. "The Villain of the Year," script by Dave Wood, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; After receiving a tip on a crime from reporter Hal Lake, Batman goes undercover and discovers that Lake is using an underworld alias in order to gather information, is mentally unbalanced, and a criminal called the Jackal. "The Hunt for Batman's Secret Identity," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; When Mirror Man escapes from prison and reforms his gang, he once again tries to prove his belief that Batman is Bruce Wayne...and he does...and doesn't! 2/3-page True Crime Laffs by Henry Boltinoff. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.12.

Batman (1940) 159 GD 2.0

Tow center wraps detached. Water damage. Interior pen markings.

Cover art by Sheldon Moldoff. Your United Nations at Work public service announcement. "The Great Clayface - Joker Feud," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; After escaping from prison, Matt Hagen finds a way to synthesize the liquid that turns him into Clayface, and once more takes up crime; The Joker, meanwhile, objects to Clayface getting all the headlines, so he starts a feud with Clayface. True Crime Laffs humor/nonfiction page by Henry Boltinoff. "The Boyhood of Bruce Wayne Jr.," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; Robin II takes after his father and is able to help Batman by discovering the secret escape method employed by the Green Owl Gang. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.12.

Batman (1940) 161 VG/FN 5.0

Cover art by Sheldon Moldoff. "The New Crimes of the Mad Hatter," script by Dave Wood, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; The Mad Hatter pulls a string of robberies based on the professions of the jurors that sentenced him on his last arrest. Special Christmas Quiz -- "Christmas in Many Lands!" public service announcement, art by Ruben Moreira. "The Bat-Mite Hero," script by Dave Wood, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; Batman corners a wanted felon in a baseball stadium, but Bat-Mite appears and messes things up with his magical nonsense. Batman tells him to find another hero to pester, so Bat-Mite creates a series of heroes (the third a crook), but they fail miserably. Half-page Casey the Cop story by Henry Boltinoff. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.12.

Batman (1940) 165 GD- 1.8 (R)

Restored (see item notes)

RESTORATION. Paper fill (spine repair) and staples moved. Heavy interior tearing.

Cover pencils by Carmine Infantino, inks by Joe Giella. "The Man Who Quit the Human Race!", script by Gardner F. Fox, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff (as Bob Kane), inks by Joe Giella; When it is discovered that he is a mutant, Governor Warner agrees to step down from office and undergo an experiment that will allow him to quickly evolve. "The Dilemma of the Detective's Daughter," script by France Herron, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff (as Bob Kane), inks by Joe Giella; Patricia Powell graduates from the Police Academy with top honors and receives her rewards from the Batman, whom she tells that she has a great affection for Bruce Wayne. Rocky and Bullwinkle star in a one-page Cheerios ad. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.12.

Batman (1940) 169 GD+ 2.5

Cover pencils by Carmine Infantino, inks by Joe Giella. Don't Give Fire a Place to Start! public service announcement, script by Jack Schiff, art by Win Mortimer. "Partners in Plunder!", script by France Herron, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff (as Bob Kane), inks by Joe Giella; The Penguin uses an umbrella barrage to trick Batman into planning his next crime for him. "A Bad Day for Batman!", script by France Herron, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff (as Bob Kane), inks by Sid Greene; Batman tells the press about his bad day, in which he returns to the scene of a previous case to retrieve some rope, and spots a jewel thief; He pursues, but a series of bad breaks allows the felon to escape. Fingerprint Facts non-fiction page, script by Julius Schwartz, pencils by Morris Waldinger, inks by Tom Nicolosi. Letter to the editor from comics writer Mike Friedrich. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.12.

Batman (1940) 171 FR 1.0

5" Cumulative spine split. Cover detached at one staple. Water damage.

1st Silver Age Riddler appearance (the question-marked criminal hadn't appeared in a Batman book since 1948). Cover pencils by Carmine Infantino, inks by Murphy Anderson. What's Wrong with These Pictures! public service announcement, art by Bernard Baily. "Remarkable Ruse of the Riddler!" (the Batman TV pilot was based on this story), script by Gardner Fox, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff (as Bob Kane), inks by Joe Giella; The Riddler is released from prison and informs the Dynamic Duo that he has turned from crime, and, as proof, leads them to the hideout of the Molehill Mob; But when the former felon begins deluging them with riddles, the Caped Crusaders aren't sure he really has reformed. Rocky and Bullwinkle star in a one-page Cheerios ad. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.12.

Batman (1940) 174 GD+ 2.5 (R)

Restored (see item notes)

RESTORATION. Color touch. Water damage.

Cover pencils by Carmine Infantino, inks by Joe Giella. "The Human Punching Bag!", script by Gardner Fox, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff (as Bob Kane), inks by Joe Giella; Hunter breaks the Getaway Genius out of jail in order to provide a getaway gimmick, all the while planning a trap for the Batman. The Time of Death article. "Nature's Bill of Rights," script by Jack Schiff, art by Sheldon Moldoff; Two boys who are polluting a stream are given an anti-pollution lesson by a fisherman. "The Off-Again On-Again Lightbulbs!", script by Gardner Fox, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff (as Bob Kane), inks by Sid Greene; When Batman arrives at the Wednesday meeting of the Mystery Analysts, a cleaning man enters and announces that it is actually Friday, and he can prove it with a copy of that day's paper; Before anyone can question why, the cleaning man hypnotizes the group, not realizing the Batman is unaffected. Half-page Little Pete story by Henry Boltinoff. Rocky and Bullwinkle star in a one-page Cheerios ad. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.12.

Batman (1940) 179 GD- 1.8

Cover pencils by Gil Kane, inks by Murphy Anderson. Do You Make Life Hard for Yourself? public service announcement, art by Bernard Baily; Betsy tells young Bobby that he should keep his room neater but realizes that she has the same problem. "Clay Pigeon for a Killer!", script by Robert Kanigher, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff (as Bob Kane), inks by Sid Greene; An actor announces on TV that he has solved a murder case and will announce who the killer is the next day; When the actor confesses to Bruce Wayne that this was an act to lure the real killer out into the open, the Caped Crusader poses as the actor to protect the man's life. One-page Casey the Cop story by Henry Boltinoff. The 2nd Silver Age appearance of the Riddler in "The Riddle-Less Robberies of the Riddler!", script by Gardner Fox, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff (as Bob Kane), inks by Joe Giella; After the Riddler breaks out of prison, he vows never again to send riddles to Batman again before he strikes; The Caped Crusader smells a rat and discovers subtle clues that lead to the Riddler's downfall. Cap's Hobby Hints activity half-page by Henry Boltinoff. Letter to the editor from Guy H. Lillian III. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.12.

Batman (1940) 181 CGC 6.0

Paper: Off white

Label #1248586003

The 1st appearance of Poison Ivy. Cover pencils by Carmine Infantino, inks by Murphy Anderson. "Beware of--Poison Ivy!", script by Robert Kanigher, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff (as Bob Kane), inks by Joe Giella; While Bruce and Dick are attending an art show, a woman shows up, claiming to be the greatest criminal of those currently residing in Gotham. Centerspread is a great two-page color poster of Batman and Robin, pencils by Carmine Infantino, inks by Murphy Anderson. "The Perfect Crime--Slightly Imperfect!", script by Gardner Fox, inks by Sid Greene; At the latest meeting of the Anaylists, Kaye announces that she didn't write her latest book, and seems to be threatened by a voice from her brooch; Batman has a feeling that the Kaye at the meeting is an imposter, so he looks into the matter. Letter from future comics writer Mike Friedrich. Rocky and Bullwinkle star in a one-page Cheerios ad. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.12.

Batman (1940) 181 FR/GD 1.5

Centerfold detached. Cover detached at one staple. Bottom staple removed.

The 1st appearance of Poison Ivy. Cover pencils by Carmine Infantino, inks by Murphy Anderson. "Beware of--Poison Ivy!", script by Robert Kanigher, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff (as Bob Kane), inks by Joe Giella; While Bruce and Dick are attending an art show, a woman shows up, claiming to be the greatest criminal of those currently residing in Gotham. Centerspread is a great two-page color poster of Batman and Robin, pencils by Carmine Infantino, inks by Murphy Anderson. "The Perfect Crime--Slightly Imperfect!", script by Gardner Fox, inks by Sid Greene; At the latest meeting of the Anaylists, Kaye announces that she didn't write her latest book, and seems to be threatened by a voice from her brooch; Batman has a feeling that the Kaye at the meeting is an imposter, so he looks into the matter. Letter from future comics writer Mike Friedrich. Rocky and Bullwinkle star in a one-page Cheerios ad. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.12.

Batman (1940) 243 GD/VG 3.0

Cover detached at one staple and loose at the other. Staple rust.

Batman follows a lead that takes half-way around the world on the trail of "The Lazarus Pit!" Talia appearance. Script by Denny O'Neil, pencils by Neal Adams, inks by Dick Giordano. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.20.

Batman (1940) 251 CGC 5.5

Paper: Off white

Label #3867409005

Cover art by Neal Adams. "The Joker's Five-Way Revenge!", script by Denny O'Neil, art by Neal Adams; The Joker has set himself free from the Mental Hospital for the Criminally Insane Batman had him incarcerated in, and he is out for blood; Before he was sent away, knowing that one member of his previous gang had ratted him out to the police, he had vowed to murder all five of them; And only the Batman is capable of stopping him; Despite Batman's best efforts, the Joker is able to finish off nearly all of his hit list; Batman is only alerted after the first murder, when a grinning corpse is found in the mud just outside of Gotham City, and he goes to each of the former members of the Joker's gang individually to try to protect them. Plop! comic book ad. Champion Sports comic book ad. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.20.

Batman (1940) 266 VF 8.0

Cover art by Dick Giordano. The Curious Case of the Catwoman's Coincidences! starring Batman, script by Denny O'Neil, pencils by Irv Novick, inks by Dick Giordano; Selina Kyle escapes from a derailed train also occupied by Bruce Wayne. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.25.

Batman (1940) 274 FN 6.0

Cover art by Ernie Chan (as Ernie Chua). Hostess Cup Cakes ad starring Captain Marvel, pencils by Curt Swan, inks by Vince Colletta. Gotham City Treasure Hunt! starring Batman, script by David Vern (as David V. Reed), art by Ernie Chan (as Ernie Chua); Batman must face a group of villains involved in an international crime contest. Justice for All Includes Children, 2 public service announcement, art by Neal Adams. Letter from Adam Castro. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.30.

Batman (1940) 276 CGC 9.6

Paper: White

Label #4681532009

Cover art by Ernie Chan (as Ernie Chua). Superman Saves the Earth Hostess Cup Cakes ad, pencils by Curt Swan, inks by Vince Colletta. The Haunting of the Spook!, script by David Vern (as David V. Reed), art by Ernie Chan (as Ernie Chua); Batman faces the mysterious Spook. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.30.

Batman (1940) 279 FN+ 6.5

Cover art by Ernie Chan (as Ernie Chua). "Riddler on the Rampage," script by David Vern (as David V. Reed), pencils by Ernie Chan (as Ernie Chua), inks by Tex Blaisdell; Riddler escapes from prison; He sends two doubles to fight Batman and Robin in a clock museum, then fights them himself at the Fair Harbor Yacht Club and the Gotham Museum of Art. Justice for All Includes Children public service announcement, pencils by Neal Adams, inks by Vince Colletta; Superman saves a hitchhiking boy from arrest and councils him on the dangers of hitchhiking. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.30.

Batman (1940) 283 FN 6.0

Cover art by Ernie Chan (as Ernie Chua) and Vince Colletta. Omega Bomb Target: Gotham City, script by David Vern (as David V. Reed), art by Ernie Chan (as Ernie Chua); Batman battles terrorists, sends them parachuting over Angola, and returns to Gotham to face further conflict. Hostess Fruit Pies ad starring Green Lantern, pencils by Curt Swan, inks by Vince Colletta. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.30.

Batman (1940) 287 FN/VF 7.0

Last 30-cent cover price. Cover art by Mike Grell. The Maltese Cup Cake Hostess snack cakes ad with Wonder Woman. "Batman-Ex--As in Extinct!", script by David Vern (as David V. Reed), pencils by Mike Grell, inks by Bob Wiacek; The Penguin uses robots of extinct birds or ancestors of birds, starting with a robot pterosaur, top commit crimes; The robot cracks out of a Napoleon statue at Gotham's La Galerie; Batman destroys the robot bird, but Penguin and his gang pull off a jewel robbery; Penguin sends an archeopteriz robot to panic the crowds at Gotham City Music Hall where a movie about Machiavelli is playing; Meanwhile, his gang robs a diner on 1805 Hamilton Street; Batman captures the crooks, but then learns of an attack on the schooner Nelson by a robot Diatryma. Statement of ownership; Average # of copies sold previous year: 178,000. Text article with photograph of publisher Jenette Kahn. Walt Simonson profile by Mike Gold. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.30.

Batman (1940) 287 VG/FN 5.0

Last 30-cent cover price. Cover art by Mike Grell. The Maltese Cup Cake Hostess snack cakes ad with Wonder Woman. "Batman-Ex--As in Extinct!", script by David Vern (as David V. Reed), pencils by Mike Grell, inks by Bob Wiacek; The Penguin uses robots of extinct birds or ancestors of birds, starting with a robot pterosaur, top commit crimes; The robot cracks out of a Napoleon statue at Gotham's La Galerie; Batman destroys the robot bird, but Penguin and his gang pull off a jewel robbery; Penguin sends an archeopteriz robot to panic the crowds at Gotham City Music Hall where a movie about Machiavelli is playing; Meanwhile, his gang robs a diner on 1805 Hamilton Street; Batman captures the crooks, but then learns of an attack on the schooner Nelson by a robot Diatryma. Statement of ownership; Average # of copies sold previous year: 178,000. Text article with photograph of publisher Jenette Kahn. Walt Simonson profile by Mike Gold. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.30.

Batman (1940) 288 FN- 5.5

First 35-cent cover price. Cover art by Mike Grell. Hostess Twinkies ad starring Green Lantern. "The Little Men's Hall of Fame!", script by David Vern (as David V. Reed), pencils by Mike Grell, inks by Bob Wiacek; The Penguin and his gang raid Royce chemicals plant since the chemical plant is located at Watt Street; Batman battles them and is about to win when Chester Cole, who is looking for Bruce Wayne, appears and defeats Batman; Batman awakens with Cole in the bottom of an empty chemical tank; Batman Penguins mechanical birds. Daily Planet Volume 77 Issue 10 Week of March 7, 1977; Information on World's Finest Comics #245, Hercules Unbound #1, comics on sale the week of March 14th and word search Planet Mini-Puzzle #5. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.35.

Batman (1940) 291 FN- 5.5

Cover art by Jim Aparo. The first installment of the "Who Killed Batman?" storyline: "Where Were You on the Night Batman Was Killed?: The Testimony of the Catwoman!", script by David Vern (as David V. Reed), pencils by John Calnan, inks by Tex Blaisdell; When word spreads throughout the underworld that Batman has been killed, several villains take credit for the deed; So the villain community sets up a trial to test the various claims, with Ra's al Ghul acting as judge and Two-Face acting as prosecutor; First up is the Catwoman; But Two-Face finds the technical error in Catwoman's story and she is dismissed. Letter from comics artist Adam Castro. Swamp Thing from the Beginning article by Jenette Kahn. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.35.

Batman (1940) 299 VF- 7.5

Cover art by Jim Aparo. The Island of Purple Mist!, script by David Vern (as David V. Reed), pencils by John Calnan, inks by Dick Giordano; Baxter Baines admits that he wishes to unmask Batman. Hostess Twinkies ad starring Wonder Woman, pencils by Curt Swan, inks by Vince Colletta. The Answer Man with Bob Rozakis. Kurt Schaffenberger bio. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.35.

Batman (1940) 304 CGC 9.8

Paper: White

Label #4709180004

Cover pencils by Al Milgrom (layout) and Jim Aparo (signed), inks by Jim Aparo (signed). "To Hell with Batman--And Back!", script by David Vern (as David V. Reed), pencils by John Calnan, inks by Dick Giordano; The Dark Knight has been kidnapped and drugged by the Spook, who attempts to convince the hero that he has been killed. Hostess Twinkies ad starring Green Lantern and Mirror Master, pencils by Curt Swan, inks by Vince Colletta. "The Amazing Secret of Dr. Dundee" featuring the Public Life of Bruce Wayne, script by David Vern as (David V. Reed), pencils by Win Mortimer, inks by Frank Chiaramonte; Bruce Wayne reveals his secret identity to Douglas William Dundee, the surgeon that, with Thomas Wayne's help, aided Martha Wayne in giving birth to Bruce; He also hires him as Batman's personal doctor; While Bruce is getting a checkup, crooks break in to Dundee's office. Biography of DC publisher Jenette Kahn. 44 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.50.

Batman (1940) 307 FN 6.0

1st appearance of Lucius Fox. Cover art by Jim Aparo. "Dark Messenger of Mercy!", script by Len Wein, pencils by John Calnan, inks by Dick Giordano; Lucius Fox handles the day-to-day transactions of the Wayne Foundation to Fox free up Wayne's schedule for his Batman activities; Batman pursues a killer who places poisoned gold coins over his victims' eyes. Hostess snack cakes ad with Superman. Letter from comics write Cat Yronwode. Daily Planet Extra Volume 78 Issue 40 Week of October 9, 1978; Information on Superboy and the Legion of Super-Heroes #247, The Brave and the Bold #146, comics on sale the week of October 23, Ask the Answer Man! and Fred Hembeck strip featuring Elongated Man. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.40.

Batman (1940) 307 VG 4.0

Water spotting.

1st appearance of Lucius Fox. Cover art by Jim Aparo. "Dark Messenger of Mercy!", script by Len Wein, pencils by John Calnan, inks by Dick Giordano; Lucius Fox handles the day-to-day transactions of the Wayne Foundation to Fox free up Wayne's schedule for his Batman activities; Batman pursues a killer who places poisoned gold coins over his victims' eyes. Hostess snack cakes ad with Superman. Letter from comics write Cat Yronwode. Daily Planet Extra Volume 78 Issue 40 Week of October 9, 1978; Information on Superboy and the Legion of Super-Heroes #247, The Brave and the Bold #146, comics on sale the week of October 23, Ask the Answer Man! and Fred Hembeck strip featuring Elongated Man. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.40.