Superman ##149
DC Comics • Superman Vol. 1
Writer
Jerry Siegel
Interior Artist
Curt Swan
Cover Artist
Curt Swan
Publication Date
November 1961
Cover Variant
Regular
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
A classic Silver Age 'Imaginary Story' titled 'The Death of Superman!' Lex Luthor finally succeeds in killing Superman using Kryptonite. The story features Lex Luthor, Supergirl, Perry White, and Lois Lane. It is considered one of the greatest 'Imaginary' tales of the era.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good (CGC 4.0)
Condition Details
Visible spine stress and localized color-breaking creases. Significant corner blunting on the bottom right. General surface wear, minor staining/foxing on the pink background area, and noticeable 'bag rippling' suggests the book has moderate shelf wear and typical Silver Age aging. Edgewear is present along the right margin.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $60 - $100 | Graded (4.0): $120 - $160
Recent Sales
Low-grade copies (2.0-3.0) frequently sell for $40-$60; mid-grade copies (5.0-6.0) can reach $180-$250 due to the iconic nature of the 'Death of Superman' storyline.
Grading Recommendation
Optional. This is an iconic Silver Age issue, but in its current condition (estimated 4.0-5.0), the cost of grading and shipping may equal a large portion of the value gained. It is best suited for a high-quality press/clean and then either grading for preservation or keeping in a Mylar sleeve.
Notable Features
Iconic death cover. Features 1st appearance of the 'Lexor' prototype concept. Notable for being written by Superman co-creator Jerry Siegel. High historical importance for the 'Superman dies' trope long before the 1990s event.
Authentication Notes
The 10-cent cover price, aged paper stock visible at the edges, and specific ink saturation levels are consistent with a genuine 1961 DC production. No signs of restoration visible through the bag.