Auctions: comic books in 'Batman'

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.

View items consigned by Time Machine Comics: all items, auctions only

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 GD 2.0

Centerfold detached and glued to interior. Water damage.

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) 189 CGC 5.5

Paper: Off white

Label #4663948006

Cover pencils by Carmine Infantino, inks by Joe Giella. 1st Silver Age appearance of Scarecrow in book-length story, "Fright of the Scarecrow!", script by Gardner Fox, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff (as Bob Kane), inks by Joe Giella; While entertaining some children in the park, Dick happens to notice the Scarecrow retrieving buried loot from a past robbery; He calls in Batman and together they battle their old foe until they are blinded by Scarecrow's fear gas. Little Pete humor half-page by Henry Boltinoff. Letter from comic book writer Mark Evanier. Peace on Earth public service announcement. Eyes Front! humor half-page by Henry Boltinoff. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.12.

Batman (1940) 194 VG+ 4.5

Cover pencils by Carmine Infantino, inks by Murphy Anderson. "The Blockbuster Goes Bat-Mad!", script by Gardner Fox, pencils by Chic Stone (?) and Sheldon Moldoff (?) (as Bob Kane), inks by Joe Giella; By chance, a reformed Mark Desmond sees a Batman display at a local department store and reverts back to his Blockbuster persona, which goes out to destroy anything related to the Caped Crusader. Letters to the editor from comics historian Peter Sanderson Jr. and "Batmania" publisher Biljo White. "The Problem of the Proxy Paintings!", script by Gardner Fox, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff (as Bob Kane), inks by Joe Giella; Martin Tellman calls the Analysts together to help him solve the dilemma he faces: his collection of worthless copies of valuable paintings have suddenly become the real thing! 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.12.

Batman (1940) 234 CGC 4.5

Paper: Off white to white

Label #4580659002

Batman stars in the story "Half an Evil" which is the first appearance of the Silver-Age Two Face. Script by Denny O' Neil, pencils by Neal Adams, inks by Dick Giordano. Robin stars in the story "Vengeance for a Cop." Script by Mike Friedrich, pencils by Irv Novick, inks by Giordano. Reprint: 1964 story "Trail of the Talking Mask" which introduces the "new look" for Batman, symbolized by the addition of an oval around the bat-insignia. Script by Gardner Fox, pencils by Carmine Infantino, and inks by Joe Giella. Letter to the editor from comics writer Bob Rozakis (misspelled "Razakis"). Adams cover. 52 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.25.

Batman (1940) 234 GD- 1.8

1.5" Cumulative spine split. Cover detached and taped/glued in place.

Batman stars in the story "Half an Evil" which is the first appearance of the Silver-Age Two Face. Script by Denny O' Neil, pencils by Neal Adams, inks by Dick Giordano. Robin stars in the story "Vengeance for a Cop." Script by Mike Friedrich, pencils by Irv Novick, inks by Giordano. Reprint: 1964 story "Trail of the Talking Mask" which introduces the "new look" for Batman, symbolized by the addition of an oval around the bat-insignia. Script by Gardner Fox, pencils by Carmine Infantino, and inks by Joe Giella. Letter to the editor from comics writer Bob Rozakis (misspelled "Razakis"). Adams cover. 52 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.25.

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) 258 CGC 5.5

Paper: Off white

Label #3782452009

100-page giant. Cover by Nick Cardy. Two-Face is back in a new story, "Threat of the Two-Headed Coin!", script by Denny O'Neil, pencils by Irv Novick, inks by Dick Giordano; Two-Face returns, having devised a plan to extort $2 billion from the citizens of the U.S.; If the government refuses to pay, the criminal plans to destroy the government...forever! Bat-Puzzle activity page by Bob Rozakis, pencils by Carmine Infantino, inks by Murphy Anderson. "The Three Racketeers!", script by Bill Finger, pencils by Bob Kane, inks by Jerry Robinson and George Roussos; Three former racketeers sit about a table playing cards in prison discussing how the Batman and Robin brought their dreams of easy wealth to a disastrous end. "7 Wonder Crimes of Gotham City!", script by Gardner F. Fox, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff (as Bob Kane), inks by Joe Giella; The Dynamic Duo face an opponent out to commit the "Seven Wonder Crimes of Gotham City." "Twenty-Ton Robbery!", script by Don Cameron, art by Dick Sprang (as Bob Kane); The Cavalier returns in disguise to acquire a new mob that he plans to use to rob the city blind, but the theft of a whale undoes his plans. "The Guardian of 100 Cities!" script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; Famed replica artifacts from various movie sets, located in a field not far from Hollywood, serve as the stage as a hideout for escaped convict Shag Darnell and his thugs. "The Man with a Thousand Eyes!", script by Bill Finger, pencils by Bob Kane, inks by Charles Paris; Count Florian, a criminal Batman and Robin once battled in London, comes to America and successfully steals a civilian invention in order to spy on America. 100 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.60.

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) 292 CGC 9.2

Paper: White

Label #4685457004

Cover art by Jim Aparo. The second installment of the "Who Killed Batman?" storyline: "Where Were You on the Night Batman Was Killed?: The Testimony of the Riddler!", script by David Vern (as David V. Reed), pencils by John Calnan, inks by Tex Blaisdell; It is the Riddler's turn to provide testimony in the murder of the Batman, but the prosecutor Two-Face finds the flaw in the Riddler's testimony, and he is also dismissed. Hostess snack cakes ad with Wonder Woman. Letter from comics historian Peter Sanderson. Daily Planet Volume 77 Issue 27 Week of July 4, 1977; Information on Teen Titans #50, Sgt. Rock Annual #2, comics on sale the week of July 11th and Lola Barnett's Comicsworld. 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) 306 FN 6.0

First standard-priced 40-cent cover issue. Cover by Jim Aparo. "Night of Siege," script by Gerry Conway, pencils by John Calnan, inks by Dave Hunt; An ex-junkie costumed vigilante called The Black Spider tries to kill dope dealer Hannibal Hardwicke; Batman saves Hardwicke and takes him to Bruce Wayne's penthouse apartment for safekeeping; The Black Spider battles past Batman into the apartment. "The Mystery Murderer of Mrs. Batman!", script by Bob Rozakis, pencils by Don Newton, inks by Dave Hunt; A freezing gas in Jeff Richter's suit immobilizes Batman and Alfred; Batman checks Richter's fingerprints and discovers that each finger bears the print of a different criminal. Battlestar Galactica Monogram model kit ad on back cover. 36 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.

Batman (1940) 357 FN 6.0 1st Printing

1st printing. Direct Edition. 1st appearance of Jason Todd and Killer Croc (cameo). Cover pencils by Ed Hannigan, inks by Dick Giordano. "Squid" starring Batman, Dick Grayson, Commissioner Gordon, Hamilton Hill, Joey Taylor, Waldo Flynn, Olivia Ortega, and the Squid (first appearance), script by Gerry Conway, pencils by Don Newton, inks by Alfredo Alcala; The Squid comes to Gotham City to launch a takeover of its underworld, and to trap the Batman; A mobster offering crooked protection threatens a circus owner; Refusing to give in, the owner unwittingly puts a target on the heads of his star performers, a husband and wife trapeze act; Days later, a young boy discoveres that his parents had been brutally murdered. Taken in by the sympathetic millionaire Bruce Wayne (Batman) the boy trains and becomes his new mentor's sidekick as Robin, the boy wonder; Not Dick Grayson, though--This time it was the copycat story of Jason Todd, the second person to become Robin. Story continues in the pages of Detective Comics (1937 1st Series) #524. Letter to the editor from comics editor/writer Kevin Dooley. 40 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.60.

Batman (1940) 361N CGC 9.8

Paper: White

Newsstand Edition.

Label #4681533021

Newsstand Edition. First appearance of Harvey Bullock. Cover pencils by Ed Hannigan, inks by Dick Giordano. "The Most Successful Species!" starring Batman, Alfred Pennyworth, Commissioner Gordon, Jason Todd, Harvey Bullock, Man-Bat, script by Doug Moench, pencils by Don Newton, inks by Pablo Marcos; Jason Todd has been taken by Man-Bat, who intends to transform him into a bat-boy. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.60.

Batman (1940) 367N CGC 9.8

Paper: White

Newsstand Edition.

Label #4681533020

Newsstand Edition. Cover art by Ed Hannigan and Dick Giordano. The Green Ghosts of Gotham, script by Doug Moench, pencils by Don Newton, inks by Alfredo Alcala; Poison Ivy uses special plants to control business executives and to battle Batman and Robin (now Jason Todd). 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.75.

Batman (1940) 368 CGC 9.6

Paper: White

Label #4700857021

Direct Edition. Cover pencils by Ed Hannigan, inks by Dick Giordano. In this key issue, Jason Todd begins as the new Robin (with a new costume) in a book-length story titled "A Revenge of Rainbows" starring Batman, Robin, Crazy-Quilt, Dick Grayson, Vicki Vale, Joker (flashback), Two-Face (flashback), Scarecrow (flashback), and Penguin (flashback), script by Doug Moench, pencils by Don Newton, inks by Alfredo Alcala; Dick Grayson officially passes along the mantle of Robin to Jason Todd, who accompanies Batman on a "shakedown cruise" around Gotham. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.75.

Batman (1940) 373 CGC 9.8

Paper: White

Label #4699337018

Cover pencils by Ed Hannigan, inks by Dick Giordano. "The Frequency of Fear," script by Doug Moench, pencils by Gene Colan, inks by Alfredo Alcala; In the middle of the night, Jason Todd awakes from a terrible nightmare and this has not been the first time; Because of his lack of sleep, the authorities at the Child Welfare Bureau have noticed Jason's decline in performance and the social workers decide to investigate the kid's situation; Meanwhile in Arkham Asylum, a writer would like to have an interview with Jonathan Crane, but he is informed that Crane has been released after his successful recovery; Unaware to the authorities, Crane has simply recovered his mental faculties, which only make him a more deadly threat; Elsewhere, Julia Pennyworth asks Vicki Vale for a job at Picture News Magazine and after clearing their differences, Vicki agrees to help Julia; At night, Joker is bound to stand trial at the Gotham Courthouse, but Scarecrow strikes at the place after seeking revenge after he was used during Joker's previous scheme; Scarecrow breaks into the courthouse and using a new device in the shape of a skull, he is able to create crippling fear in those victims who he aims the device towards; Like this, Scarecrow has easy access to the cells at the courthouse, but a few minutes after his attack, the Bat-Signal is activated; When Scarecrow is about to reach the Joker's cell, Batman arrives at the place and confronts the crook. Story continues in Detective Comics #540. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.75.

Batman (1940) 374 CGC 9.8

Paper: White

Label #4681533014

Cover pencils by Don Newton, inks by Dick Giordano. "Pieces of Penguin!" starring Robin, Alfred, Julia Pennyworth, Vicki Vale, Commissioner Gordon, Harvey Bullock, and The Penguin, script by Doug Moench, pencils by Don Newton, inks by Alfredo Alcala; The Penguin is on the loose and out to steal the plans for the Pentagon's "early bird" warning system. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.75.

Batman (1940) 377N CGC 9.8

Paper: White

Newsstand Edition.

Label #4681533012

Newsstand Edition. Little Nemo tribute cover art by Ed Hannigan and Dick Giordano. The Slayer of Night, script by Doug Moench, pencils by Don Newton, inks by Alfredo Alcala; Nocturna conjures nightmares, causing trouble for Batman. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.75.

Batman (1940) 384 CGC 9.8

Paper: White

Label #4681532025

Direct Edition. Cover pencils by Rick Hoberg, inks by Dick Giordano. "Broken Dates," script by Doug Moench, pencils by Rick Hoberg, inks by Rudy Nebres; Dr. Fangs goons believe Batman has to die for them to profit in Gotham; Batman battles Calendar Man; Vicky Vale severs her ties with Bruce Wayne, and Alfred plays match maker. Part 1 of 3, continued in Detective Comics #551. Crisis on Infinite Earths mini-series, two-panel-sequence-cameo with The Monitor (only hands shown with voice) and Lyla (Harbinger). 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.75.