Exciting Adventures of the Black Cat ##1
Harvey Comics • Exciting Adventures of the Black Cat (1946 Series)
Writer
Art Helfant
Interior Artist
Lee Elias
Cover Artist
Lee Elias
Publication Date
August 1946
Cover Variant
Regular
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Features the adventures of Linda Turner, known as the Black Cat. Turner is a Hollywood starlet who fights crime as a masked vigilante without superpowers, relying on her skills as an master of Judo. This issue also features backup stories and the 'Black Cat's Judo Tricks' section.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Good/Very Good (CGC 3.0)
Condition Details
Visible moderate spine stress with color breaking, heavy rounding of corners, minor edge wear, and horizontal creasing across the bottom. The cover shows significant gloss loss and surface wear, typical of Golden Age Harvey paper stock.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $300 - $500; Graded (3.0): $600 - $850
Recent Sales
Solid copies in mid-grade have spiked recently. Sales for a 3.0 grade range consistently between $650 and $900 depending on eye appeal.
Grading Recommendation
Yes, grading is recommended due to the historical significance of the character and the fragility of Golden Age comics. However, given the visible creasing, a professional press and clean is highly advised before submission to maximize the grade towards a 4.0-4.5 potential.
Notable Features
Early Golden Age key featuring one of the first female costumed leads. Significant for its 'Bad Girl' art style cover by Lee Elias and the 'Black Magic' chest imagery featuring a devil-like figure.
Authentication Notes
The paper aging pattern, ink absorption into the newsprint, and the specific 'Giant Size' Harvey branding are consistent with authentic 1946 printings. No immediate signs of restoration or facsimile reprinting are visible from the image.