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Detective Comics

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DC · Golden Age · 1948

Detective Comics #140

DC · 1948

Noted for: The Riddler

KEY ISSUE
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Before you buy

Verify the issue and printing, check the grader certification, review restoration notes, and compare recent sold examples in the same grade.

The Detective Comics #140 in context

Why collectors care

The first appearance of the Riddler, cover-dated October 1948, created by Bill Finger and Dick Sprang. Edward Nygma became one of Batman's most recognizable antagonists across television and film.

How to identify it

Detective Comics #140, October 1948. The green question-mark motif is present from the debut, which is the fastest visual check.

Common mistakes

Late-1940s Detective issues are frequently restored. Buy certified and read the label for restoration and trimming notes.

Grade considerations

Post-war newsprint tans readily and high-grade survival is limited. Certification and page quality dominate value at this level.