DALLAS, TEXAS —Batman #1 (DC, 1940), went far beyond its grade (CGC VG- 3.5) when it sold at $143,400 during Heritage Auctions’ three-day comics and comic art auction, February 23-25. Also selling well was Alex Raymond’s “Flash Gordon” original art dated 10-27-35 (King Features Syndicate, 1935), which realized $131,450.

Heritage Auctions Comics and Comic Art Operations Director Barry Sandoval said, “Demand is very high for Batman #1, a book that it’s fair to say has reached top pop-culture collectible status. This copy presents extremely well on both front and back covers.”

From the estate of Ethan Roberts, which supplied many sought after lots in the three-day event, came “A fantastic Flash Gordon Sunday feature with great panels of all four of the major characters: Ming the Merciless is in Panel 2, Flash is on horseback in Panel 3, and standing with Dr. Zarkov in Panel 4, and Dale gets a great horseback image in Panel 5,” Sandoval said. This is from the story “At War With Ming!,” in ink over graphite on bright white Bristol board, 25 ½ by 20 ½ inches.

Prices include the buyer’s premium; a full review of the auction will appear in a future issue. For further information, www.ha.com.