The Batman Adventures ##12
DC Comics • The Batman Adventures Vol. 1
Writer
Kelley Puckett
Interior Artist
Mike Parobeck
Cover Artist
Mike Parobeck
Publication Date
September 1993
Cover Variant
Regular Direct Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
This landmark issue features 'Batgirl: Day One.' It is the first comic book appearance of Harley Quinn, who was originally created for Batman: The Animated Series. The story also features Poison Ivy and Batgirl (Barbara Gordon).
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine- (CGC 7.5)
Condition Details
Visible spine stress marks (ticks) along the left edge, slight blunting on the upper and lower left corners, moderate surface wear with possible light fingerprinting on the lower dark blue area, and minor edge wear on the right side.
Estimated Market Value
Raw (mid-grade): $400 - $600; Graded 7.5: $700 - $850; Graded 9.8: $2,500 - $3,500+
Recent Sales
High-grade 9.8 copies have recently sold for upwards of $3,500. Mid-grade raw copies frequently move in the $500 range due to the immense popularity of the first appearance of Harley Quinn in comics.
Grading Recommendation
Highly Recommended for professional grading. This is a massive 'Key' issue. Even in mid-grade, the value is significant. A professional press and clean could likely bump this specific copy into the 8.0 or 8.5 range before submission.
Notable Features
First comic book appearance of Harley Quinn. Iconic Mike Parobeck cover art. Features the Fox Kids Network logo. This is a 'Mega Key' of the 1990s.
Authentication Notes
The cover gloss appears consistent with 1993 DC stock. The 'Direct Edition' logo (indicated by the lack of a UPC barcode) is present. There are no immediate signs of a reproduction; the ink density in the dark blue shadows and the 'Fox Kids' logo colors are consistent with authentic copies.