Superman #No. 149
DC Comics • Superman Vol. 1
Writer
Jerry Siegel
Interior Artist
Curt Swan
Cover Artist
Curt Swan
Publication Date
November 1961
Cover Variant
Regular/Direct
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
A classic Silver Age 'Imaginary Novel' titled 'The Death of Superman!'. Lex Luthor successfully plots to kill Superman using Kryptonite. Key appearances by Lex Luthor, Perry White, Jimmy Olsen, and Lois Lane.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good/Fine (CGC 5.0)
Condition Details
Multiple spine stress marks and ticks, moderate corner blunting, visible writing (marks '#4' and '+C1') in ink on the cover logo area, slight color fading, edge wear, and potential tanning of pages. Top edge shows minor chipping.
Estimated Market Value
Raw (ungraded): $150 - $225; Graded (CGC 5.0): $250 - $350. Values vary significantly based on interior page quality and the impact of the writing on the cover.
Recent Sales
Recent sales for mid-grade raw copies range from $180 to $260. High-grade CGC 9.0+ copies of this issue can exceed $2,500.
Grading Recommendation
While a key issue, the ink writing on the cover limits the grade (Green Label Qualified or significant point deduction). It is worth grading only if the owner desires preservation, otherwise, a professional cleaning and press may help, but marks are permanent.
Notable Features
Often cited as the best 'Imaginary Story' of the Silver Age. Iconic cover. This is a 10-cent cover price variant. Significant as a precursor to the 1990s Death of Superman event.
Authentication Notes
The item appears to be an authentic 1961 10-cent original based on the paper texture, color aging, and staple placement. No signs of restoration are visible in the image, though the ink writing is a major post-production flaw.