A copy of “Superman No. 1,” the 1939 comic book that introduced the world to the iconic superhero, has sold for a record-breaking $9 million at auction, Heritage Auctions announced Thursday. The sale price eclipses the previous record for a single comic book – a $6 million sale of “Action Comics No.1″ in 2023 – and underscores the enduring cultural and financial value of vintage collectibles.
The comic, discovered in a pile of old magazines in the basement of a Northern California home, was owned by three brothers who inherited it from their grandfather. its pristine condition, a 9.0 out of 10 rating from comics grading company CGC, contributed substantially to its value. The sale highlights a growing market for rare comic books, fueled by nostalgia, investment, and the enduring popularity of superhero narratives.
Experts identified the copy as originating from the first edition of 500,000 “Superman No. 1” copies printed, aided by a small in-house advertisement within the comic. Allen of Heritage Auctions estimates fewer than 500 copies remain in existence today. The comic’s preservation was aided by the cool climate of Northern California, leaving it with vibrant colors and crisp corners.
The previous record for the most expensive comic book was set last year with the $6 million sale of another “Action Comics No. 1.” In 2022, a different copy of ”Superman No. 1″ sold for $5.3 million.
The brothers who sold the comic, who wished to remain anonymous, described the sale as “a testament to memory, family and the unexpected ways the past finds its way back to us,” according to a statement released by the auction house. The buyer also requested anonymity.
