Famous 1st Edition: Action Comics #1 #C-26
DC Comics • Famous 1st Edition / Limited Collectors' Golden Mint Series
Writer
Jerry Siegel
Interior Artist
Joe Shuster
Cover Artist
Joe Shuster
Publication Date
1974
Cover Variant
Treasury Edition / Oversized
Printing
First Printing (of this edition)
Comic Description
A page-for-page treasury-sized reprint of the historical Action Comics #1 from 1938. Includes the origin and first appearance of Superman (Clark Kent) and Lois Lane. This is a classic 'reprint of the first appearance of Superman' from the mid-1970s.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good/Fine (CGC 5.0)
Condition Details
Visible heavy creasing and handling wear across the gold border areas, corner blunting, possible humidity damage based on the rippling of the protective bag/outer sleeve, spine stress marks, and overall surface abrasions on the metallic gold ink.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $30 - $60; Graded (CGC 9.8): $300 - $500
Recent Sales
Raw copies in average condition typically sell for $40 to $70 on eBay. High-grade CGC 9.8 copies can reach $450+. Lower grades (5.0-7.0) typically fetch under $60.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading in this condition. The cost of grading treasury-sized books is significantly higher than standard comics, and the visible wear (grade 5.0-6.0 range) would likely result in a market value lower than the grading fees.
Notable Features
Oversized 'Treasury' format (10 x 13.5 inches). Metallic gold 'Famous 1st Edition' outer cover. This edition is often mistaken for the original 1938 comic, but is distinguished by its size and the outer gold cover (though the gold cover is frequently removed, revealing a reprint interior cover).
Authentication Notes
Genuine 1974 DC treasury release. Indicators include the $1 cover price (as opposed to 10 cents on the 1938 original), the oversized dimensions, and the 'C-26' designation in the top right corner.