Action Comics #1

DC · 1938

Noted for: Superman

KEY ISSUE

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CGC 9.8 CGC 9.6 CGC 9.4 CBCS 9.8

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Before you buy

Verify the issue and printing, check the grader certification, review restoration notes, and compare recent sold examples in the same grade.

Grading guides

The Action Comics #1 in context

Why collectors care

Action Comics #1 (1938) is the first appearance of Superman and the book that launched the superhero genre. It is the most valuable comic in existence, with record sales in the millions, and a genuine copy is a generational asset.

How to identify it

A real 1938 first printing, not the 1974/1976 reprints, the Famous First Edition replica, or a facsimile. Only graded copies with airtight provenance transact at the top of the market.

Common mistakes

Reprints and replicas are constantly confused with the original. Restoration is widespread on the few surviving copies and must be graded and disclosed.

Grade considerations

Only around a hundred copies are believed to survive, most in low grade. Census position, restoration status, and provenance define value far more than small grade differences.

Sold comps

No graded sold listings in the last 90 days. Check the Raw tab for ungraded sales.