Rare Superman Comic Book Shatters Record with $9.12 Million Texas Sale

A copy of the first Superman comic book has sold for a staggering $9.12 million. The record-breaking sale happened this month at Heritage Auctions in Texas. Three brothers made the incredible find while cleaning their late mother’s home.

They discovered the comic in a cardboard box in a San Francisco attic. The box was hidden under old newspapers and dust. According to the Associated Press, the mother had long spoken of a valuable collection.

Historic Discovery in a Family Attic

The brothers were preparing to sell their mother’s house. It was during this final clean-out that they made the discovery. They contacted Heritage Auctions to assess their find.

Lon Allen, the company’s Vice President of Comics, flew out to inspect it. He confirmed the comic was an authentic “Superman No. 1” from 1939. The condition was remarkably well-preserved.

Allen expressed amazement at the discovery’s survival. He noted it could have easily been thrown away or destroyed. The cool Northern California climate helped protect it for decades.

Why This Comic Commands Millions

The comic is exceptionally rare. It was part of the first print run by Detective Comics Inc. Experts believe fewer than 500 copies exist today.

This particular copy received a grade of 9.0 out of 10 from CGC. It had a firm spine and vibrant colors. A small, unique advertisement inside helped verify its origin.

Superman was the first true superhero in pop culture. This iconic status drives its value among collectors. The sale sets a new public record for any comic book.

The previous record was $6 million for “Action Comics No. 1.” That issue marked Superman’s debut in 1938. This “Superman No. 1” sale from 1939 now tops it.

The three brothers, who wish to remain anonymous, received a life-changing sum. They see the comic as more than just a collectible. One brother called it a testament to family and memory.

This record-breaking Superman comic sale proves the enduring power of pop culture history. The $9.12 million price tag redefines the collectibles market. It shows that legendary heroes can still yield monumental surprises.

Thought you’d like to know

Q1: What makes this Superman comic so valuable?

Its rarity and condition drive the value. Fewer than 500 copies of the 1939 “Superman No. 1” are believed to exist. This copy was also found in near-mint condition.

Q2: Who found the $9 million Superman comic?

Three brothers discovered it in their late mother’s attic. They were cleaning her San Francisco home before selling it. The family has chosen to remain anonymous.

Q3: Where was the comic book auctioned?

The sale was handled by Heritage Auctions. This auction house is based in Dallas, Texas. The final price was $9.12 million.

Q4: How does this sale compare to previous records?

It sets a new public record for any comic. The previous record was $6 million for “Action Comics No. 1.” That sale occurred last year.

Q5: Why was the comic in such good condition?

It was stored in a cool, dry attic for decades. The Northern California climate helped preserve the paper and colors. It was safely tucked away in a cardboard box.