The Man of Steel ##1
DC Comics • The Man of Steel
Writer
John Byrne
Interior Artist
John Byrne (pencils), Dick Giordano (inks)
Cover Artist
John Byrne
Publication Date
October 1986
Cover Variant
Regular/A Cover (Special Collector's Edition)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
First issue of the six-part mini-series that rebooted Superman's origin following Crisis on Infinite Earths. Features a new origin story for Clark Kent/Superman, including his departue from Krypton and early days in Smallville.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine/Near Mint (CGC 9.0)
Condition Details
Minor spine stress visible along the left edge. Slight blunting on the bottom right corner. Very faint surface wear/scuffing visible on the white areas of the lower cover. Colors remain vibrant and the cover gloss appears high.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $10.00 - $15.00; Graded (9.0-9.8): $40.00 - $120.00
Recent Sales
Raw copies in similar high-grade condition typically sell for $12-$20. CGC 9.8 copies have recently sold in the $110-$140 range.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for grading unless it is a guaranteed 9.8. This specific copy appears to be around a 9.0-9.2; the cost of grading fees would likely exceed the immediate market value of a mid-to-high grade slab for this particular common modern-era key.
Notable Features
Modern origin of Superman. First appearance of the Post-Crisis Superman. Notable white background cover that is prone to showing dirt and scuffs. This is the 'Special Collector's Edition' variant with different trade dress than the newsstand B-cover.
Authentication Notes
Authentic first printing. Features correct 75 cent price point and DC 'Bullet' logo. Paper quality is consistent with mid-80s glossy stock. High quality registration and ink density.