The Man of Steel ##1
DC Comics • The Man of Steel (1986)
Writer
John Byrne
Interior Artist
John Byrne / Dick Giordano
Cover Artist
John Byrne
Publication Date
October 1986
Cover Variant
Regular/A Cover (UPC/Newsstand Edition)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Modern reimagining of Superman's origin following Crisis on Infinite Earths. Features Kal-El arriving on Earth, being raised by the Kents, and the first modern appearance of Lex Luthor and Lois Lane in the PC (Post-Crisis) continuity.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good (CGC 4.0)
Condition Details
Extensive color-breaking spine stress/ticks, significant corner blunting at bottom right and top left, visible creasing along the spine and right edge, light staining/soiling on the white borders, and edge wear (shelf wear).
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $3 - $7. Graded: $30 - $40 (at current estimated grade). Note that 9.8 graded copies command significantly higher prices ($150+).
Recent Sales
Raw VF copies sell for $10-15; filler/VG copies sell for $3-5. High volume of supply exists due to high printing numbers in the 80s.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The costs of grading (approx. $25-40+) exceed the current market value of a mid-grade copy. A professional press and clean might improve it slightly, but significant color breaks will remain.
Notable Features
Key Issue: Modern origin of Superman. Newsstand edition (identified by the barcode/UPC). This issue exists with two different 'A' covers; this is the Clark Kent/Superman variant.
Authentication Notes
Authentic 1980s newsstand printing. Paper stock shows typical age-related tanning on edges. Ink density on logo and registration match period standards.