The Man of Steel ##1
DC Comics • The Man of Steel Vol. 1
Writer
John Byrne
Interior Artist
John Byrne
Cover Artist
John Byrne
Publication Date
October 1986
Cover Variant
Regular/A Cover
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
First issue of the 6-part mini-series that rebooted Superman's origin following Crisis on Infinite Earths. Features a new origin for Kal-El's departure from Krypton and his 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. Minor surface wear and potential light edge wear near the top header. The white background appears relatively clean with minimal staining or foxing visible through the polybag.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5 - $15; Graded (9.0-9.8): $25 - $120
Recent Sales
Raw copies frequently sell for under $10. CGC 9.8 copies have recently sold in the $100-$130 range, while 9.6 copies settle around $50-$60.
Grading Recommendation
Only worth grading if the comic is a guaranteed 9.8 after a professional clean and press. As a 9.0-9.2 candidate, the grading fees and shipping would likely exceed the market value of the slabbed book.
Notable Features
Major Key Issue: Modern origin of Superman. First appearance of the Post-Crisis Superman, Martha Kent, and Jonathan Kent. First appearance of the new Krypton.
Authentication Notes
First printing confirmed by the 75 cent cover price and absence of later printing UPC/indicia modifications. Color registration and gloss appear consistent with mid-80s DC copper age stock.