Posted By Dan Greenfield on Jan 9, 2025 | 2 comments

The Archie Authentic Editions campaign is in its final week…

One of the grooviest Kickstarters we’ve seen in some time is in the final stretch — the Archie Authentic Editions campaign that aims to reproduce some of the most beloved comics of the Golden and Silver Ages with the utmost attention to accuracy, from the ads, to the colors, to a book’s dimensions.

You can get the skinny here — and you can check out the Kickstarter here — but to help wind you up, we’ve got a three-day special for you: 13 CLASSIC BETTY COVERS, 13 CLASSIC VERONICA COVERS and 13 CLASSIC BETTY VS. VERONICA COVERS.

That’s because Riverdale’s two most interesting characters are the subject of a poll of sorts in the Kickstarter (you can pledge for special Blonde or Brunette packages of the Authentic Editions, which take the Facsimile Edition concept and kick it up about five notches).

We’re leading off with Betty because she’s my favorite Archie Comics character of all.

Here are Adam Fortier and Eben Matthews of Macroverse, the company that’s partnered with Archie to produce these lovely editions. (My hope is that this is so successful, Marvel and DC get on board, too. Because this is as much about comics history in general, as it is about Archie specifically.)

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By ADAM FORTIER and EBEN MATTHEWS 

Few comics characters capture the charm and relatability of Betty Cooper. Whether she’s baking a pie for a school fundraiser or coming to the rescue with her resourcefulness, Betty embodies a down-to-earth kindness and determination that have made her a fan favorite for generations. As the quintessential girl-next-door, Betty has graced countless covers with her wit, warmth, and undeniable style. Here, we’ve curated 13 of her most iconic covers from the Golden Age — moments that perfectly showcase her enduring appeal and playful spirit.

Betty was introduced alongside Archie himself in Pep Comics #22, quickly becoming a key figure who helped define the direction of Archie Comics publishing. Her sunny optimism, quick thinking, and unshakable loyalty set her apart as more than just a supporting character; she became a star in her own right. Each cover tells a story, focusing on Betty herself and her dynamic with Archie, spotlighting her unique independence, humor, and charisma.

These issues are a perfect extension of our ongoing partnership with Archie Comics through the first of many Authentic Editions collections. Authentic Editions stand out for their meticulous attention to detail, period-accurate paper stock, and faithful reproduction of the original art and colors. While not all of these covers below are featured in the current Kickstarter campaign, we are committed to bringing all of these classic issues to collectors in the Authentic Editions format, with additional releases planned throughout this year and beyond.

This marks the start of an exciting new journey for Betty fans—an opportunity to relive and own these treasures as they were originally intended. With even more gems to come, there’s no better time to begin your Betty collection.

Back the campaign here to start your ultimate Archie collection! Backers will gain access to exclusive offers, promotions, and insider updates as we redefine what a Facsimile Edition can and should be. Let’s celebrate Betty Cooper and her timeless magic together!

In alphanumeric order…

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Archie #8 (May-June 1944). In one of her earliest cover appearances, Betty seeks to water her affections upon Archie.

Harry Sahle

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Archie #30 January-February 1948. Betty learns early on that Archie lives in her heart.

Al Fagaly

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Archie #48 (January-February 1951). Betty doesn’t hesitate for a moment when she gets the chance…

Bob Montana

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Archie #50 (May-June 1951). While it wouldn’t be hard to write something witty about this cover, it really speaks for itself.

Montana

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Archie #56 (May-June 1952). Betty asserts herself helping Archie get over Veronica in no time flat.

Bill Vigoda

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Laugh Comics #31 (February 1949). Archie sees red in all the best ways…

Artist unknown

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Laugh Comics #36 (December 1949). Betty shoots her shot, hitting nothing but net when given the chance.

Montana

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Laugh Comics #40 (August 1950). Archie whispers sweet nothings into Betty’s ear, drowning out the parrots warning…

Artist unknown

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Laugh Comics #50 (April 1952). Life for Betty isn’t always a Laugh when Archie gets distracted by Veronica.

Vigoda

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Pep Comics #65 (January 1948). The big guns need to be called out when Archie has to go home…

Fagaly

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Pep Comics #68 (July 1948). Archie and Jughead find their resolve easily overcome.

Fagaly

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Pep Comics #71 (January 1949). Betty knows the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach…

Unknown

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Pep Comics #73 (May 1949). While Archie’s intentions are more culinary in nature, a mistaken compliment sends Betty flying sky high.

Montana

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MORE

— ARCHIE AUTHENTIC EDITIONS Raise the Stakes in the FACSIMILE EDITION Game. Click here.

— 13 Historic ARCHIE COMICS Facsimile Editions We’d Like to See. Click here.