The pristine 1939 copy of Superman #1 remains in remarkable shape. CNN
A rare copy of Superman #1 turned into the most valuable comic ever sold after three brothers from northern California uncovered it in their late mother’s attic. The book sold for an astounding US$9.12 million at auction. The comic came from 1939 and originally cost only 10 cents.
The brothers sorted through old belongings last year after their mother’s death. They climbed into the attic and found a cardboard box buried under stacks of old newspapers. Inside the box, they discovered several early comics, including five issues of Action Comics. But one book stood out. It was Superman #1, the first comic fully dedicated to the Man of Steel.
A Family Story Behind the Comic
The auction house explained that the brothers’ mother bought the comics long ago with her own brother. They bought them between the Great Depression and the Second World War. The pair kept the books for decades. Later, they decided to pass them down to her sons because the brother never had children.
The youngest of the three brothers spoke through the auction house. “This was never just about a collectible. This is a testament to memory, family and the unexpected ways the past finds its way back to us.”
He shared memories of growing up in a small apartment with little comfort. Comic books offered escape, excitement, and shared joy. “They had each other and a shared love for comic books,” he said. The brothers did not think the old comics still existed. Life moved on, and hardship took priority. Over time, the box disappeared into the attic’s dark corner.
A Remarkable Discovery
Experts examined the comic and expressed surprise at its striking condition. The auction house graded it higher than any other known copy. The comic also came from the first print run of half a million copies from DC’s earliest days. These factors lifted its value far beyond earlier sales.
Lon Allen, vice president of the auction house, celebrated the auction result. “Superman #1 is a milestone in pop culture history, and this copy is not only in unprecedented condition, but it has a movie-worthy story behind it. I was glad to see the price reflect that and am honored Heritage was entrusted with this iconic book.”
A New Record in Comic History
The previous record came from Action Comics No. 1, the 1938 issue that introduced Superman. That book sold for $6 million last year. Before that, another copy of Superman #1 held the title in 2022 with a price of $5.3 million.
Superman continues to stand as one of the most famous characters in North American entertainment. The hero appears in movies, books, toys, and countless other creations. This sale adds another chapter to his long legacy.
