Superman #1 Breaks Comic Book Auction Record with $9.12 Million Sale
Superman #1 Breaks Auction Records
In a landmark event for comic book enthusiasts, a recently discovered Superman #1 has just made history by selling for an astonishing $9.12 million at Heritage Auctions' Comic Books Signature Auction held on November 20, 2025. This remarkable sale not only shattered previous records for comic book sales but has solidified Superman #1's position as the most valuable comic book of all time.
The journey of this iconic comic began in a dusty attic in California, where it had been hidden for decades. Recognized as a treasure, it was first authenticated by the Certified Guaranty Company® (CGC®), where it received an impressive grade of CGC 9.0— the highest ever assigned to this issue. This level of certification played a significant role in boosting its market appeal, demonstrating the importance of authentication in the collectibles sector.
Prior to this sale, the previous record for a comic book was held by Action Comics #1, featuring the debut of Superman, which commanded $6 million at auction in April 2024. Before that, another Superman title, also notable, had sold privately for $5.3 million in 2022. This upward trend in value highlights the continued demand for rare and significant comic books, a market that's rapidly gaining attention in the world of collectibles.
Matt Nelson, President of CGC, expressed his excitement over the sale, stating, "It was riveting to see this Superman #1 — the highest-graded example ever certified by CGC — shatter the previous auction record for any comic book. This result is a testament not only to the comic's rarity and preservation but also to the expertise and trust that define CGC's role in the collectibles market."
Superman, often regarded as the quintessential superhero, first captivated audiences in Action Comics #1 back in 1938. His introduction revolutionized the comic industry, laying the groundwork for the modern superhero genre. With an enticing backstory reminiscent of ancient mythology, Superman inspired a surge of other heroes and became an emblem of heroism during World War II and thereafter.
His standalone title, Superman #1, which hit the shelves in the summer of 1939, was so popular that it sold out its initial print run of half a million copies almost immediately. The overwhelming demand led to subsequent print runs, but as the years have passed, the physical copies available have dwindled significantly. Currently, only 209 copies are recorded in the CGC Population Report, with fewer than half of those maintaining CGC's esteemed blue Universal label.
This monumental sale not only marks a pivotal moment in comic book history but also emphasizes the vital role that organizations like CGC play in preserving and authenticating such valuable collectibles. The growing interest in comic books as both a form of entertainment and an investment is reflected in the sky-high prices realized at auctions in recent years.
Recognized globally as a leader in collectible certification, CGC has overseen the grading of over 20 million collectibles, further cementing its status as the most trusted third-party grading service in the industry. The company continues to enhance its services, adapting to evolving collector needs and introducing innovative solutions for enthusiasts. In tandem with its parent company, the Certified Collectibles Group (CCG), CGC is committed to empowering collectors through expertise, community engagement, and quality service.
In conclusion, the sale of this exceptional Superman #1 comic not only enriches the lore of comic book history but also serves as a tangible reminder of the enduring legacy of Superman. As collectors around the world eagerly await the next auction, one thing is clear: rare comic books like Superman #1 will remain a formidable force in the world of collectibles for years to come.