World's Finest Comics ##153
DC Comics • World's Finest Comics Vol. 1
Writer
Edmond Hamilton
Interior Artist
Curt Swan
Cover Artist
Curt Swan (Pencils), George Klein (Inks)
Publication Date
November 1965
Cover Variant
Regular
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
An 'Imaginary Novel' where Batman and Superman are enemies. Batman believes Superman killed Thomas Wayne. Features the famous frame of Batman slapping Robin, which became a viral internet meme. Superman eventually clears his name, and the real killer is revealed to be Lex Luthor.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good (CGC 4.0)
Condition Details
Moderate spine stress with color-breaking ticks; light vertical creasing on the left side of the cover; rounding and blunting of corners; visible edge wear and minor chipping on the bottom right; noticeable paper browning/tanning due to age; overall surface soiling and dulling of gloss.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $300 - $450; Graded (CGC 4.0): $550 - $700
Recent Sales
High-grade copies (VF or better) reach $2,000+, while mid-grade copies at 4.0 typically sell between $400 and $600 depending on eye appeal. Raw copies in similar condition recently averaged $350 on auction platforms.
Grading Recommendation
Yes, worth grading. Despite the moderate condition, this is a highly sought-after Silver Age key. Professional pressing could improve the grade slightly by flattening minor creases, potentially pushing it toward a 4.5 or 5.0.
Notable Features
Iconic 'Batman Slapping Robin' panel occurs in this issue. Key Silver Age 'Imaginary Story'. Notable for its depiction of a lethal rivalry between DC's two biggest heroes years before 'The Dark Knight Returns'.
Authentication Notes
Authentic Silver Age DC copy. Printing quality, 12-cent price mark, and 'National Comics' logo are consistent with internal 1965 production standards. No signs of restoration visible.