By contrast, Superman comics can be credited with launching the Golden Age of comics. Once Superman gained popularity so too did other well-known, loved heroes, like Wonder Woman, Captain America, Spider-Man, and Batman.
Superman even gave us the major conventions of modern comic book stories: extraordinary powers, colorful costumes, and the secret identities that would spawn many of the heroes we follow and love today.
What are Golden Age Superman comic books worth?
If you find or own a Superman comic from this era, don’t throw it away – or try to sell it yourself. Some of the most-sought-after issues can be worth a small fortune.
Action Comics #1, the first appearance of Superman from 1938, sold for $4.2 million, and is worth a minimum of $125,000. The 1939 comic where Superman made his first solo appearance has sold for as much as $1.5 million, and has a minimum value of $25,000.
What determines the value of your Superman comic books?
Comic books come in grades: Poor (P), Fair (F), Good (G), Very Good (VG), Fine (F), Very Fine (VF), Near Mint (NM), Mint (M), and Gem Mint (GM). The closer your book is to NM condition the more it will sell for.
Finding a near-mint Golden Age Superman book is difficult. They look brand new: full, bright colors and gloss, no wear, even on the spine, no tears, and lying perfectly flat. A true NM comic may never even have been read. The more faded, torn, or worn the comic is, the less valuable it is.
The specific issue matters, too. Issue #22 from July of 1943 is worth around $12,000 in near-mint condition. Issue #35 from July of 1945 is worth only around $6,000. You can view prices on the Overstreet Comics Price Guide.
Rarity and historical significance can matter. So can whether you choose to sell it at auction (live or online) or in a non-auction online setting. An auction that invites true collectors has a better chance at selling any issue for more money, because you might just find a buyer who needs your specific issue to round out his or her collection.
Finally, the era of the comic matters. Though Golden Age comics command the highest prices, we often see good prices in Silver Age comics (those published 1956-1970).
The right auction can make price of that comic book fly like Superman
Have a Superman issue or collection for us to evaluate? Reach out to Central Mass Auctions to schedule an appraisal today. Working with us allows you to keep more of your money. It also allows you to sell your Superman comics in a stress-free way.
