Moth
(DC Comics, 1961)
Context
The Moth only appeared in one, small Batman story in 1961. He was a sort of knock off of Killer Moth.
This guy would be entirely forgettable, but he played a small role in the career of Bat-Girl (Betty Kane).
And it’s possible that he’s what inspired the creators of Batgirl (Barbara Gordon) to have her debut against Killer Moth.
This profile is mostly intended for those who need an incompetent, walk-on villain for a story. Though of course you could have a more in-depth use for him.
For more information about the Moth and Killer Moth villainous identities, see our guide to Killer Moths.
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Background
- Real Name: Unrevealed.
- Known Relatives: None.
- Group Affiliation: None.
- Base of Operations: Gotham City.
- Height: 5’10” (1.78 m). Weight: 155 lbs. (70 Kg.).
- Eyes: Unrevealed. Hair: Unrevealed.
Powers & Abilities
The Moth is presumably in okay shape.
He has a pistol.
He once used capsules of “a new knockout gas”, but that wasn’t a normal part of his gear.
Bat-Girl took him down in one panel with a judo throw.
History
The Moth and his four gunsels apparently had a short career in Gotham in 1961. Since Batman and Robin recognised them.
Batman also stated that the Moth was notorious for always committing a robbery he had planned.
Perhaps he’s a former henchman of Killer Moth, who customised a leftover costume ?
The Dynamic Duo caught up with the Moth gang as they robbed a chemical plant. Batwoman (Katherine Kane) then came in to finish the gunmen off, and Bat-Girl (Betty Kane) easily vanquished the Moth.
“Vengeance”, cries the Moth
The Moth escaped a few days later.
The “Batman Family” thought he’d seek revenge against Bat-Girl. Getting beaten up by a teenage girl had badly damaged his reputation.
But the Moth’s priority was to rob a science expo, before all the casing and planning work he’d done would be lost.
The Moth lucked out, using knockout gas (likely found at the expo) to take out Batman and Batwoman.
But Robin and Bat-Girl came in in time, and the Moth gang went out like a light.
Personality
I’m sure he has one, bless his heart.
DC Heroes RPG
Tell me more about the game stats
Moth (1961)
| Dex: 03 | Str: 02 | Bod: 02 |
| Int: 03 | Wil: 03 | Min: 03 |
| Inf: 03 | Aur: 02 | Spi: 03 |
| Init: 009 | HP: 010 |
Skills:
Weaponry (Pistols): 03
Advantages:
None demonstrated.
Connections:
Underworld (Low).
Drawbacks:
None demonstrated.
Motivation:
Mercenary.
Occupation:
Robber.
Wealth:
004
Equipment:
Peashooter handgun [BODY 01, Projectile weapons: 03, Ammo: 08, R#05].
Design Moths
It is possible that this bloke has some Thief Subskills, and a few Vehicles (Land) APs.
We don’t see those in the material, but pity might move you to add that to his character sheet.
Likewise, there’s a loose, fleeting implication that the helmet might also serve as a low-quality gas mask.
Source of Character: Batman Vol. 1 #141.
Writeup completed on the 23rd of March, 2023.