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 Cover / Direct Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Major key issue featuring the first comic book appearance of Harley Quinn (Dr. Harleen Quinzel). The story, titled 'Batgirl: Day One', follows Batgirl (Barbara Gordon) as she encounters Harley Quinn and Poison Ivy at a costume party. Batman makes a cameo appearance.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine/Near Mint (CGC 9.0)
Condition Details
Light spine stress marks visible on the left edge. Minor blunting on the bottom left corner. Surface gloss appears strong, but there is a slight vertical ripple characteristic of storage in a tight bag. No visible color-breaking creases or stains.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $600 - $800; Graded 9.0: $900 - $1,100; Graded 9.8: $2,500 - $3,500
Recent Sales
CGC 9.8 copies have recently sold between $2,800 and $3,400. CGC 9.0 copies trend around $950. Raw copies in mid-to-high grade typically fetch $700+.
Grading Recommendation
Highly Recommended for professional grading due to high market demand for the first appearance of Harley Quinn. A professional press and clean could likely bump this from a 9.0 to a 9.2 or 9.4, significantly increasing value.
Notable Features
First comic book appearance of Harley Quinn. Features Poison Ivy and Batgirl. Key 1990s DC issue. Does not have a barcode (Direct Edition box features Puckett/Parobeck/Burchett names).
Authentication Notes
Authentic first printing. Color registration and dot gain are consistent with 1993 DC manufacturing. The DC 'bullet' logo and Fox Kids logo are sharp and correctly positioned.