Auctions: comic books

Batman (1940) 123 GD/VG 3.0

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 GD+ 2.5

Water damage.

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 VG 4.0

Water damage.

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 GD/VG 3.0

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 GD 2.0

1/2" Cumulative spine split. Interior tearing with minor impact to one panel.

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) 130 GD- 1.8

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) 131 GD+ 2.5

Water spotting.

Cover by Sheldon Moldoff. "The Dog that Betrayed Batman," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; Wounded and suffering from amnesia, Bat-Hound befriends a hermit and blind man, but hates the sight of anyone in a mask...including Batman himself! Half-page "Police Woman!" non-fiction story. Aloha... Hawaii! public service announcement, script by Jack Schiff, art by Bernard Baily. "The Case of the Deadly Gems," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Dick Sprang, inks by Charles Paris; Jeweler Claber, of Gotham Gem Company, is murdered and his death blamed on criminal Ted Greaves by the man's three partners; However, Batman discovers the partners are actually involved in a smuggling racket and seek to throw suspicion off themselves by blaming Greaves. One-page Casey the Cop story by Henry Boltinoff. "The Second Batman and Robin Team," script by Bill Finger, art by Sheldon Moldoff; Alfred tests out his new typewriter by writing an imaginary tale of Robin growing to manhood and becoming the new Batman, adopting a new partner as Robin, and taking on a gang of crooks. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.10.

Batman (1940) 132 VG- 3.5

Water damage.

Cover by Sheldon Moldoff. "The Martian from Gotham City," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; An actor suffering amnesia believes that he is a Martian and at war with the world; When three criminals discover this, they trick the actor into helping them. One-page Warden Willis story by Henry Boltinoff. "The Three Faces of Batman," script by Bill Finger, art by Sheldon Moldoff; While trying to capture Big Jim Masters, Batman is subjected to an scientific experimental device that makes him unable to fight crime when he hears a siren or bell. One-page Casey the Cop story by Henry Boltinoff. "The Lair of the Sea-Fox," script by Bill Finger, art by Sheldon Moldoff; The Sea-Fox cleverly uses underwater waterways beneath Gotham to commit his crimes and the Caped Crusaders must find a way to stop him. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.10.

Batman (1940) 135 GD/VG 3.0

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) 137 GD+ 2.5

1" Spine split from bottom. Cover and first wrap detached at one staple.

Cover by Sheldon Moldoff. "Robin's New Boss," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; Robin informs Batman that he is quitting the team to join up with a new crime fighter on the scene, Mr. Marvel, although Batman doesn't suspect the real reason why. Our American Heritage public service announcement, art by Bernard Baily. "The Bandit with 1,000 Brands," script by Bill Finger, art by Sheldon Moldoff; Batman faces a clever new foe that leaves cattle brands behind as clues. One-page Jail Jests story by Henry Boltinoff. "Teacher from the Stars," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; Batman agrees to give an alien teacher and his students a tour of Gotham City, but when they begin to misbehave, it causes more than just a headache for the Caped Crusader. Statement of ownership; average sales 502,000. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.10.

Batman (1940) 140 FR 1.0 (R)

Restored (see item notes)

RESTORATION. Color touch.

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) 142 FR 1.0

5.5" Cumulative spine split. Cover detached.

Cover by Sheldon Moldoff. "Batman's Robot-Guardian," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; Having received a guardian robot from an alien he once befriended, Batman discovers the creature will not allow the Caped Crusader to put his life on the line in fighting crooks. The Right to be Different public service announcement, script by Jack Schiff, art by Bernard Baily. "The Crimes of the Ancient Mariner," script by Bill Finger, art by Sheldon Moldoff; Some clever crooks, intent with making off with a company payroll, fool the Caped Crusaders into believing that an old sea-farer is a crook. "Ruler of the Bewitched Valley," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; The Caped Crusaders follow a renegade scientist to Central America, where he has created a series of automated robots that fool the superstitious natives. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.10.

Batman (1940) 144 FR/GD 1.5

Severe water damage.

First 12-cent cover price. Cover by Sheldon Moldoff. "The Alien Feud on Earth," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; Two aliens come to Earth to fight a duel over a girl, and they don't care who gets in the way.Strange Laws humor/non-fiction page by Henry Boltinoff. "The Man Who Played Batman," script by Arnold Drake, art by Sheldon Moldoff; Batman secretly joins a training ground started by the Joker, whose express purpose is to defeat the Batman! "People Are People!" public service announcement, art by Don Cameron. "Bat-Mite Meets Bat-Girl," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; Bat-Girl gets seriously jealous when Robin tells her that there is another lady in his life, so Bat-Mite offers to help Bat-Girl get the man she loves. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.12.

Batman (1940) 147 GD 2.0

Cover by Sheldon Moldoff. "The Plants of Plunder," script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; A gang of crooks enters Gotham and begins using strange seeds to grow alien plants in order to commit crimes. One-page Jail Jests story by Henry Boltinoff. Time-Out for Talk! public service announcement, art by Sheldon Moldoff. "The Secret of Mystery Island!", script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; A dying gang boss leaves a series of clues for his men to follow to an island in order for them to locate a hidden treasure. "Batman Becomes Bat-Baby" starring Batman and Bat-Woman (as proof of this "unusual adventure," there resides in the Bat-Cave's famed trophy room a glass case in which the Bat-Baby costume is enshrined), script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; A criminal scientist turns Batman physically into a four-year-old with a ray of his own devising, but Batman modifies his costume and continues to fight crime as Bat-Baby. One-page Casey the Cop story by Henry Boltinoff. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.12.

Batman (1940) 149 FR/GD 1.5

Severe cover tearing (interior taped). Centerfold 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 GD- 1.8

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) 150 FR/GD 1.5

Cover detached at one staple and coming loose at the other. First two wraps detached at one staple and centerfold detached.

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) 163 GD+ 2.5

Cover art by Sheldon Moldoff. "Bat-Girl--Batwoman II!", script by Bill Finger, pencils by Chic Stone, inks by Charles Paris; Betty returns to Gotham City and adopts the guise of Batwoman II; With Batman and Robin II both out of town, the original Batman must go into action and gets captured in the process; When Batwoman II saves him, she learns his secret identity in the process. "The Joker Jury!", script by Bill Finger, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Charles Paris; The Joker begins a crime wave using the city's various departments as his theme; When the Caped Crusaders head out to battle the Crime Clown, they are captured and put on trial by the Joker. Names Do Hurt! public service announcement, art by Sheldon Moldoff. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.12.

Batman (1940) 168 GD- 1.8

Cover pencils by Carmine Infantino, inks by Joe Giella. "The Fight that Jolted Gotham City!", script by France Herron, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Joe Giella; Batman helps cure a circus strong man of his wild mood swings by deducing that radio music tends to cause aggressive behavior in him. Cap's Hobby Center activity half-page by Henry Boltinoff. Crime-Writing Clues! non-fiction page. "How to Solve a Perfect Crime--In Reverse!", script by France Herron, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff, inks by Joe Giella; The Mystery Analysts split up to search for the thief who purloined a valuable diamond, and it's Batman who discovers that one member of the Analysts is the guilty party! Letter to the editor from comic writer Bob Rozakis. Rocky and Bullwinkle star in a one-page Cheerios ad. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.12.

Batman (1940) 170 CGC 5.0

Paper: Off white

Label #4692677013

Cover pencils by Carmine Infantino, inks by Joe Giella. Friends Across the Seas public service announcement, art by Sheldon Moldoff. "Genius of the Getaway Gimmicks!", script by Gardner Fox, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff (as Bob Kane), inks by Sid Greene; Roy Reynolds, wanting to not make the same mistakes of other criminals, decides to uses a series of getaway gimmicks on the Caped Crusader to effect the escape of he and his men...and succeeds, until Batman baits a trap of his own. "The Puzzle of the Perilous Prizes!", script by Bill Finger, art by Joe Giella (as Bob Kane); When Batman and Robin investigate who entered a contest for an elderly lady, they end up capturing an entirely unrelated gang who think Batman and Robin are after them. Pore Identification non-fiction half-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 CGC 4.0

Paper: Off white to white

Slab: Chipped/broken bracket

Label #4620695002

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) 172 GD- 1.8

1.25" Spine split.

Cover pencils by Carmine Infantino, inks by Joe Giella. Happy Hobby Time! public service announcement, script by Jack Schiff, art by Win Mortimer; Superboy shows Frank that he can be creative, regardless of whether his creations are perfect, and notes an expressive hobby can be lifelong enjoyment. "Attack of the Invisible Knights!", script by John Broome, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff (as Bob Kane), inks by Joe Giella; An ancient legend involving suits of armor coming to life and destroying some opals in a museum appears to come to pass, and challenges the wits of the Caped Crusaders to discover the facts behind this legend. "Robin's Unassisted Triple Play!", script by Gardner Fox, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff (as Bob Kane), inks by Sid Greene; Using remote cameras from the Bat-Cave, the Caped Crusaders witness a crime and are on the way to the scene when Batman gets an emergency call from the JLA and has to report; Robin now handles the case, tracking down the art gallery robbers. Rocky and Bullwinkle star in a one-page Cheerios ad. 36 pgs. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.12.

Batman (1940) 183 GD/VG 3.0

Interior pen markings.

Cover pencils by Carmine Infantino, inks by Joe Giella. "A Touch of Poison Ivy!", script by Robert Kanigher, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff (as Bob Kane), inks by Joe Giella; Missing the imprisoned Poison Ivy, the Caped Crusader receives a gift from her and she promises to repent; Batman visits her, but he is placed under her spell, and she uses him to make good her escape. Cap's Hobby Hints activity half-page by Henry Boltinoff. The Policeman Is Your Friend! public service announcement, script by Jack Schiff, art by Sheldon Moldoff. Letter from future comics writer Mike Friedrich. "Batman's Baffling Turnabout!", script by Gardner Fox, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff (as Bob Kane), inks by Joe Giella; While chasing crooks into a warehouse, Batman falls through a trapdoor and is captured while one of the crooks impersonates the Caped Crusader; A tell-tale clue alerts Robin that this is an imposter and he deals appropriately with the situation to find the real crime fighter. Letters to the editor from Biljo White, Irene Vartanoff, and comics writer Mike Friedrich. Statement of ownership--average print run 694,000; average paid circulation 453,745. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.12.

Batman (1940) 188 CGC 8.5

Paper: Cream to off white

Label #4685412008

Cover pencils by Carmine Infantino, inks by Joe Giella. "The Eraser Who Tried to Rub Out Batman!", script by Robert Kanigher, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff (as Bob Kane), inks by Joe Giella; Commissioner Gordon gets Batman to investigate a series of crimes in which all of the clues have been erased, and the Caped Crusader goes undercover to do so. Cap's Hobby Hints activity half-page by Henry Boltinoff. "The Ten Best-Dressed Corpses in Gotham City!", script by John Broome, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff (as Bob Kane), inks by Sid Greene; A newspaper publisher calls in the Police and Batman, explaining to them that three of the men on his magazine's top-ten best dressed list have been murdered; Batman agrees to investigate and nearly dies himself as Bruce Wayne, who also was listed on the newspaper's listing. 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) 190 CGC 4.0

Paper: Off white

Label #4695723001

Cover pencils by Carmine Infantino, inks by Joe Giella. "The Penguin Takes a Flyer--Into the Future!", script by Gardner Fox, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff (as Bob Kane), inks by Joe Giella; Penguin attempts to fool the Caped Crusaders into believing that his new tricks are based on futuristic technology. When this fails and his gang is captured the Fowl villain begins using robotic umbrellas against the Dynamic Duo. Letters from letter hack Guy H. Lillian III and Marvel colorist and assistant editor Irene Vartanoff. Cap's Hobby Hints activity half-page by Henry Boltinoff. Countdown on Excellence public service, script by Jack Schiff, art by Sheldon Moldoff; Jerry gets a lecture from his father on the importance of doing every job right. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.25.

Batman (1940) 190 VG- 3.5

Cover pencils by Carmine Infantino, inks by Joe Giella. "The Penguin Takes a Flyer--Into the Future!", script by Gardner Fox, pencils by Sheldon Moldoff (as Bob Kane), inks by Joe Giella; Penguin attempts to fool the Caped Crusaders into believing that his new tricks are based on futuristic technology. When this fails and his gang is captured the Fowl villain begins using robotic umbrellas against the Dynamic Duo. Letters from letter hack Guy H. Lillian III and Marvel colorist and assistant editor Irene Vartanoff. Cap's Hobby Hints activity half-page by Henry Boltinoff. Countdown on Excellence public service, script by Jack Schiff, art by Sheldon Moldoff; Jerry gets a lecture from his father on the importance of doing every job right. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.25.

Batman (1940) 227 PR 0.5

INCOMPLETE. Pages missing, interrupts art and story.

Cover art by Neal Adams. "The Demon of Gothos Mansion!", script by Denny O'Neil, pencils by Irv Novick, inks by Dick Giordano; Alfred receives a letter from his niece Daphne, saying she is a teacher to children at Gothos Mansion but thinks there is something strange; Batman decides to investigate and once he arrives at the place, he is attacked by some men, but easily defeats them; He then gets into Daphne's room, where she tells him she has discovered the children were Dwarves and she is forced to wear ancient clothes; On the wall there's a portrait of a girl who looks exactly like Daphne; Batman breaks the lock and opens the door of the room in order to leaves the room; However, he steps outside the room into a hallway and he falls through a trapdoor into a net; The Elder Heathrow and his men bind Batman's hands and he is placed on a stone with a noose round his neck; In about a quarter of an hour it will drop into the cellar and Batman will be hanged. One-page Casey the Cop story by Henry Boltinoff. "Help Me--I Think I'm Dead!", script by Mike Friedrich, pencils by Irv Novick, inks by Mike Esposito; Professor "Buck" Stuart is running for congress against incumbent Forte on a platform of cleaning up the polluted river that Forte has allowed ICM to dump their chemicals into; When Stuart's campaign headquarters are burned to the ground, Robin investigates. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.15.

Batman (1940) 241 GD- 1.8

Cover detached.

Cover pencils by Neal Adams, inks by Bernie Wrightson. "At Dawn Dies Mary MacGuffin!" starring Batman, Colonel Sulphur, Mary MacGuffin, Howard MacGuffin, and James Gordon, script by Denny O'Neil, pencils by Irv Novick, inks by Dick Giordano; Batman races against the clock to save a young woman from a diabolical madman. "Secret of the Psychic Siren!", script by Mike Friedrich, art by Rich Buckler; Terri Bergstrom's search for her cousin comes to an end, leading to Robin, Terri and Lilith battling a cult that worships Cthulhu. "The Case of the Honest Crook!", script by Bill Finger, pencils by Bob Kane, inks by Jerry Robinson and George Roussos (backgrounds); Batman helps out a young convict released from prison who is having trouble getting an honest job to support his new, but sick wife; The Caped Crusaders then vow to help track down the rats who set him up to be arrested originally, but Robin is nearly beaten to death, and the Batman swears vengeance on those responsible. Letter to the editor from David B. Michelinie. 52 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.25.

Batman (1940) 244 VG 4.0

Water damage.

Ra's Al Ghul is back, and with a vengeance. Can Batman defeat the Demon in a one-on-one duel to the death? "The Demon Lives Again!" Talia appearance. Script by Denny O'Neil, pencils by Neal Adams, inks by Dick Giordano. Robin stars in the solo adventure "Teen-Age Trap!" Script by Elliot Maggin, pencils by Irv Novick, inks by Giordano. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.20.

Batman (1940) 247 VF+ 8.5

Batman must find a bomb before it ruins Gotham City's Christmas celebration. Christmas story. "Merry Christmas, and a Deadly New Year!" Script by Denny O'Neil, pencils by Irv Novick, inks by Dick Giordano. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.20.

Batman (1940) 263 CGC 8.5 Double Cover

Paper: White

Double Cover: 1st cover 7, interior cover 8.5.

Label #4259039002

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First 25-cent cover price. Cover art by Dick Giordano. "Batman and the Mummy" Hostess Twinkies ad. "Riddler on the Move!", script by Denny O'Neil, pencils by Ernie Chan (as Ernie Chua), inks by Dick Giordano; Batman is on the trail of a criminal organization that provides criminal services for other criminals in the underworld; When he is about to take down their leader, Batman is challenged by the Riddler to solve one of his infamous riddles; In doing so, Batman is lured directly into a trap inside a museum, where the Riddler has prepared a whole chamber with loaded crossbows aimed at Batman; The Dark Knight has to solve yet another riddle to save his life and in the meantime, the Riddler moves on and takes over the criminal organization Batman was trying to dismantle. Statement of ownership; average # of copies sold previous year: 193,223. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.25.

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) 287 CGC 9.4

Paper: White

Label #4554024004

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

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) 302 VF 8.0

Last 35-cent cover price. Cover by Jim Aparo. "The Attack of the Wire-Head Killers," script by David Vern (as David V. Reed), pencils by John Calnan, inks by Dick Giordano; After admitting to the murder of Malcolm Millbrook in order to spare Gotham from a gang war, Batman becomes the target of Millbrook's "wire-head killers." Daily Planet Extra Volume 78 Issue 18 Week of May1, 1978 article by Bob Rozakis. Information on Claw the Unconquered #12, House of Secrets #153, comics on sale the week of May 8th and Ask the Answer Man. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.35.

Batman (1940) 304 VF 8.0

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) 357N CGC 8.0

Paper: Off white to white

Newsstand Edition.

Label #4689896012

1st printing. Newsstand 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) 358D FN/VF 7.0

Direct Edition. Cover pencils by Ed Hannigan, inks by Dick Giordano. 1st full appearance of Killer Croc in "Don't Mess with Killer Croc!" starring Batman, Robin, Commissioner Gordon, Alfred Pennyworth, Trina Todd, and The Squid, script by Gerry Conway, pencils by Curt Swan, inks by Rodin Rodriguez; With the Squid eliminated, Killer Croc appoints himself the new head of the Gotham Underground as Batman puts together the pieces of Killer Croc's involvement in the Squid's death. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.60.

Batman (1940) 359N FN+ 6.5

Newsstand Edition. Cover pencils by Ed Hannigan, inks by Dick Giordano. Jason Todd becomes a continuing character in "Hunt" starring Batman, Dick Grayson, Jason Todd, James Gordon, Vicki Vale, Alfred Pennyworth, Waldo Flynn, Trina Todd, Joe Todd, and Killer Croc, script by Gerry Conway, pencils by Dan Jurgens, inks by Dick Giordano; Featuring the origin of Killer Croc!; Batman searches for the whereabouts of Killer Croc while Croc himself breaks into Gotham City Jail to take care of the last obstacle in his path toward ruling the Gotham Underground. 1st comic book work by Dan Jurgens. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.60.

Batman (1940) 359N VG/FN 5.0

Newsstand Edition. Cover pencils by Ed Hannigan, inks by Dick Giordano. Jason Todd becomes a continuing character in "Hunt" starring Batman, Dick Grayson, Jason Todd, James Gordon, Vicki Vale, Alfred Pennyworth, Waldo Flynn, Trina Todd, Joe Todd, and Killer Croc, script by Gerry Conway, pencils by Dan Jurgens, inks by Dick Giordano; Featuring the origin of Killer Croc!; Batman searches for the whereabouts of Killer Croc while Croc himself breaks into Gotham City Jail to take care of the last obstacle in his path toward ruling the Gotham Underground. 1st comic book work by Dan Jurgens. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.60.

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) 370 CGC 9.8

Paper: White

Label #4681533017

Direct Edition. Cover art by Ed Hannigan and Dick Giordano. Up Above the Sin So High, script by Doug Moench, pencils by Don Newton, inks by Alfredo Alcala; Harvey Bullock helps Batman and Robin by going undercover to infiltrate Dr. Fang's gang. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.75.

Batman (1940) 372 CGC 9.8

Paper: White

Label #4681533016

Cover art by Ed Hannigan and Dick Giordano. What Price, the Prize?, script by Doug Moench, pencils by Don Newton, inks by Alfredo Alcala; Batman looks for the evil Dr. Fang, who's into boxing. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.75.

Batman (1940) 376 CGC 9.8

Paper: White

Label #4681533013

Cover pencils by Ed Hannigan, inks by Klaus Janson. "Nightmares, Inc." starring Batman, Robin, Alfred, Julia Pennyworth/Julia Remarque, Vicki Vale, Harvey Bullock, Nocturna, and Night-Thief, script by Doug Moench, pencils by Don Newton, inks by Alfredo Alcala; Batman tries to crack a scare-for-hire party service which he suspects is targeting its clients for burglaries. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.75.

Batman (1940) 385 CGC 9.8

Paper: White

Label #4681533001

Direct Edition. Cover pencils by Paris Cullins, inks by Bob Smith. "Day of Doom" starring Batman, Robin (Jason Todd), Alfred Pennyworth, Vicki Vale, Commissioner Gordon, Harvey Bullock, and Calendar Man, script by Doug Moench, pencils by Rick Hoberg and Charles Patton, inks by Alfredo Alcala; Calendar Man has promised to kill Robin on the first day of spring; After being forbidden to leave the batcave, Robin disobeys Batman and goes after Calendar Man himself. Part 3 of 3, continued from Detective Comics (1937) #551. Missive by letter hack T.M. Maple. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.75.

Batman (1940) 386 FN/VF 7.0

Direct Edition. Cover by Tom Mandrake. "Black Mask: Losing Face" starring Batman, Commissioner Gordon, Harvey Bullock, Black Mask (1st appearance and origin), and Lucius Fox, script: Doug Moench, art by Tom Mandrake; Roman Sionis loses his family's company, Janus Cosmetics, and turns to a life of crime as Black Mask. Part 1 of 3, continued in Detective Comics (1937) #553. Missive by letter hack T.M. Maple. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.75.

Batman (1940) 386 FN 6.0

Direct Edition. Cover by Tom Mandrake. "Black Mask: Losing Face" starring Batman, Commissioner Gordon, Harvey Bullock, Black Mask (1st appearance and origin), and Lucius Fox, script: Doug Moench, art by Tom Mandrake; Roman Sionis loses his family's company, Janus Cosmetics, and turns to a life of crime as Black Mask. Part 1 of 3, continued in Detective Comics (1937) #553. Missive by letter hack T.M. Maple. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.75.

Batman (1940) 387 CGC 9.6

Paper: White

Label #4700857022

Cover art by Tom Mandrake. Ebon Masquery starring Batman, Robin, Alfred, Vicki Vale, Commissioner Gordon, Harvey Bullock, and Black Mask, script by Doug Moench, art by Tom Mandrake; to lure Black Mask, Bruce Wayne hosts a masquerade ball at Wayne Manor. Assault on Mount Mayhem starring Mask 16-page promo/preview, script by Michael Fleisher, pencils by Mike Chen, inks by Joe Delbeato. 52 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.75.

Batman (1940) 390 CGC 9.8

Paper: White

Label #4681533006

Cover art by Tom Mandrake. Women Dark and Dangerous starring Batman, Robin, Harvey Bullock, Nocturna, Night-Slayer, and Catwoman, script by Doug Moench, art by Tom Mandrake; Nocturna tries to discover what's causing the red rain, Batman battles Catwoman. 36 Pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.75.