Heritage Auctions had a number of rare Superman comic books listed in their “Comics & Comic Art Signature Auction” which took place between June 17-19, 2021.
The Action Comics #1 (DC, 1938) CGC Conserved FN- 5.5 Cream to off-white pages sold for US$528,000.
The stature of this iconic issue just grows larger every year. Far and away the most valuable comic book ever published, Overstreet’s listed value increased from 2019 to 2020 by an amount that exceeded the total value of all but the top eight books on its Top 100 Golden Age Comics list! And it invariably fetches way more than Guide prices. We last sold a Universal copy three years ago, and our current offering is the most attractive copy we’ve offered in nearly five years. The origin and first appearance of Superman launched the Golden Age of Comics. Joe Shuster provided the cover and story art of the Superman story, while Fred Guardineer and Bernard Baily also contributed interior art. CGC notes this as “From the Collection of Jon Berk” and “Conservation includes: cover cleaned, cover reinforced, staples replaced.”
While the winning bid of the Superman #1 (DC, 1939) CGC Apparent VG- 3.5 Extensive (B-5) Cream to off-white pages was US$45,600.
An historic book that currently ranks third on Overstreet’s Top 100 Golden Age Comics list. At the time of its publication, it was unheard-of to devote an entire series to a character who was created for the comic books rather than a proven success from cartoons or newspaper strips, and it became one of many standards set by the Man of Steel. This restored copy presents remarkably well for one with extensive repairs. This issue features the origin of Superman, with a cover, story art, and back cover pin-up by Joe Shuster. CGC notes, “Restoration includes: color touch, pieces added, tear seals, reinforced.”
You can check out the rest of the Comics & Comic Art Signature Auction at Heritage Auctions.
