Batman ##139
DC Comics • Batman Vol. 1
Writer
Bill Finger
Interior Artist
Sheldon Moldoff and Charles Paris
Cover Artist
Sheldon Moldoff
Publication Date
April 1961
Cover Variant
Regular
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
A major Silver Age key issue featuring the first appearance of Bette Kane as Bat-Girl. In the story 'The Bat-Girl!', Kathy Kane's (Batwoman) niece Betty Kane discovers her aunt's secret identity and creates her own costume to fight crime and win over Robin.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine (CGC 6.0)
Condition Details
Moderate spine stress and small color-breaking creases along the left edge. Minor corner blunting at the top right. Slight yellowing (tanning) visible on the cover paper. General edge wear consistent with age, but colors remain vibrant with no significant staining or major tears visible in image.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $350 - $550; Graded (CGC 6.0): $750 - $1,100
Recent Sales
High-grade copies (9.0+) have recently sold for $4,000+; mid-grade copies (5.0-6.0) consistently fall in the $600-$900 range depending on eye appeal.
Grading Recommendation
Highly recommended. This is a significant Silver Age key. Professional pressing and cleaning could potentially elevate this from a 6.0 to a 7.0+, significantly increasing market value.
Notable Features
First appearance of the original Bat-Girl (Betty Kane). Features Batwoman (Kathy Kane). Iconic Silver Age cover. Silver Age DC 10 cent price point.
Authentication Notes
The cover gloss and paper aging appear consistent with 1961 DC production. Proper 'Superman DC National Comics' logo and CCA seal placement. No immediate signs of restoration or facsimile reprinting visible.