In Dallas, Texas, a historic comic book has shattered records by selling for an eye-watering $6 million. This particular edition, “Action Comics No. 1,” marks Superman’s groundbreaking debut in the superhero world. The sale, conducted by Heritage Auctions, now claims the title of the most valuable comic book ever sold.
This iconic print from 1938 outstripped the previous record held by a private sale of “Superman No. 1” for $5.3 million in 2022. The comic book universe saw another high price of $3.6 million for a copy of “Amazing Fantasy No. 15,” which unveiled the beloved character Spider-Man. All these transactions occurred under the roof of Heritage Auctions, known for showcasing some of the rarest comic book gems.
The recently sold “Action Comics No. 1” is part of the esteemed Kansas City Pedigree collection, a treasure trove originating in the late 1960s. This collection comprises nearly 250 first-edition issues dating from 1937 to the 1940s, making it a true historical artifact. Remarkably, the identity of the buyer remains undisclosed, adding a layer of mystery to this monumental sale.
Superman’s inception by writer Jerry Siegel and illustrator Joe Shuster in the early 1930s paved the way for this superhero’s legendary journey. However, it wasn’t until June 1938 that Action Comics truly brought Superman to life for audiences. Priced at a mere 10 cents back then (equivalent to about $2 today), this comic book saw a circulation of around 200,000 copies. The roots of this publication trace back to National Allied Publications, a predecessor of the comic book giant DC Comics.
The auction at Heritage Auctions in Dallas featured a blend of in-person and online bids, resulting in a total sale surpassing $25 million. The event drew comic book enthusiasts from all over, eager to stake their claim on rare finds. As the auction drew to a close on Sunday, the legacy of Superman and other beloved characters lived on through these timeless pieces of art.