Batman - First Appearance (Detective Comics #27)
sh606 · DC Super Heroes
Batman 80th Anniversary · 2019 - Released as part of the 80th-anniversary celebration of Batman's first appearance.
Figure ID
sh606
Theme
DC Super Heroes
Year Released
2019 - Released as part of the 80th-anniversary celebration of Batman's first appearance.
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare - Exclusive to a single set (76139) and a 1939-themed promotional gift.
Head
White flesh tone with dual-sided printing: one side neutral/stoic, the other with a slight scowl. Features high-set goggles and unique black mask printing around the eyes to simulate the early cowl look.
Torso
Light Bluish Gray torso with musculature and 'Fat Bat' emblem. Includes a yellow utility belt with a distinct gold buckle. Sand blue/purple-tinted gloves (represented by purple hands) and light bluish gray arms.
Legs
Dual-molded legs: Light Bluish Gray on top to represent the suit, Black on bottom for the boots. Printed black 'trunks' area on the hips and upper leg.
Accessories
Traditional bat-wing shaped black fabric cape. Note: The cowl (piece 19961) is missing from the image provided, which originally covers the head piece.
Color Scheme
Light Bluish Gray, Black, Purple (hands), and Yellow (belt). This scheme specifically mimics the 1939 color palette from Detective Comics #27.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the torso front/back and legs. The emblem is specifically shaped to match the original 1939 drawing. Dual-molded legs provide a clean line between the suit and boots.
Variants
This is the only version of the 1939 'First Appearance' Batman produced by LEGO; no official variants exist, though it shares parts with the version included in the 'Batman 80th Anniversary' 4-pack.
Condition Notes
The cape is prone to fraying at the edges. Purple hands are made of standard ABS but the color can show stress marks if weapons are swapped frequently. Check the neck for torso cracks.
Estimated Value
New: $25 - $35; Used Complete: $18 - $23; Incomplete (as shown without cowl): $8 - $12.
Price (New)
Originally included in the 1939 Batmobile (Set 40433) limited promotion and a larger retail set context ($29.99 - $249.99 sets).
Compatible Sets
76139 1989 Batmobile (Exclusive version), 40433 1989 Batmobile - Limited Edition.
Character Background
Based on Bruce Wayne's debut in Detective Comics #27 (May 1939) by Bill Finger and Bob Kane. Highlights include the purple gloves and the wider, wing-like cape.
Design Notes
LEGO chose to use purple hands to represent the surgical-style gloves Batman wore in his first few issues. The 'ears' on the (missing) cowl are also angled further outward than modern cowls.
Similar Minifigures
sh589 Batman (80th Anniversary), sh848 Batman (1989 version), Classic TV Series Batman (sh233).
Collectibility
High. This is a must-have for Batman enthusiasts due to its historical significance and the unique 'purple hand' design choice.
History
Prior to 2019, LEGO primarily focused on 'Modern', 'Bale-era', or 'Classic TV' Batman. This marked the first 'Golden Age' specific figure in the line.
Interesting Facts
In his original 1939 debut, Batman actually carried a gun and was much more of a 'pulp' detective, which is why this figure looks slightly more rugged and retro.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed with a copy of Detective Comics #27 or alongside the 40433 Batmobile. A light gray or black baseplate works best to contrast the purple hands.
Modification Potential
Excellent for 'Golden Age' MOCs. The legs are highly sought after for purist customs of other pulp-era heroes.
Overall Assessment
Rated 9/10 for accuracy. The figure in the photo is currently incomplete (missing the cowl piece), but the printing and historical accuracy of the remaining parts are top-tier.