Superman: The Man of Steel ##22
DC Comics • Superman: The Man of Steel Vol. 1
Writer
Louise Simonson
Interior Artist
Jon Bogdanove
Cover Artist
Jon Bogdanove
Publication Date
June 1993
Cover Variant
Regular/Die-cut Cover
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Part of the 'Reign of the Supermen!' storyline following the 'Death of Superman.' This issue features the first full appearance of John Henry Irons as the 'Man of Steel' (later known as Steel). Steel attempts to protect Metropolis from urban decay and gang violence.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good (CGC 4.0)
Condition Details
Significant damage visible including a large color-breaking crease and surface tear on the left edge of the cover, edge wear, blunted corners, and surface scuffing in the lower matte areas. Minor spine stress also present.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $1.00 - $3.00 | Graded (9.8): $40.00 - $60.00
Recent Sales
High-grade copies (near mint) sell for roughly $5-$10; low-grade/worn copies frequently sell for under $2 or in bulk lots. Professional 9.8 graded copies have leveled off significantly from the 2021 peak.
Grading Recommendation
Not worth professional grading. The cost of the grading fee far exceeds the value of the book, especially given the visible surface damage and edge tears which would prevent a high grade.
Notable Features
First full appearance of Steel (John Henry Irons). Die-cut 'S-Shield' cover. Part of the iconic Reign of the Supermen storyline (Triangle #13 for 1993). Includes a 'Man of Steel' poster inside if intact.
Authentication Notes
Authentic first printing. Features the standard $1.95 cover price for the die-cut edition. Paper stock, ink quality, and die-cut precision are consistent with 1993 DC production standards.