The Man of Steel #No. 1
DC Comics • The Man of Steel (6-Part Mini-Series)
Writer
John Byrne
Interior Artist
John Byrne (pencils), Dick Giordano (inks)
Cover Artist
John Byrne
Publication Date
October 1986
Cover Variant
Regular (Special Collector's Edition)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
This issue features the post-Crisis on Infinite Earths origin of Superman. It depicts Krypton as a cold, sterile world and follows Clark Kent's journey to becoming Superman. Key characters include Jor-El, Lara, and the Kents.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine/Near Mint (CGC 9.0)
Condition Details
Visible color-breaking spine stress/ticks on the left edge. Minor blunting at the bottom left corner. Slight surface ripples suggesting possible handling wear. Good color vibrancy and overall flat appearance.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $10 - $20; Graded 9.8: $100 - $150; Graded 9.0: $40 - $50
Recent Sales
Recent raw copies in similar mid-to-high grade condition sell frequently for $12-$18. CGC 9.8 copies have recently sold in the $130 range.
Grading Recommendation
Only worth grading if the comic is a guaranteed 9.8 candidate (near perfect). This specific copy shows spine wear and might peak at a 9.0-9.2, making the cost of grading higher than the market value increase.
Notable Features
First issue of the landmark 1986 reboot by John Byrne. This is a Direct Edition 'Special Collector's Edition' variant with a different cover than the newsstand logo variant. It features the iconic image of Clark Kent ripping his shirt to reveal the 'S' shield.
Authentication Notes
Authentic copper-age DC publication. Correct logos, price ($0.75 US), and artist signatures (Byrne/Giordano) present. No signs of reproduction or counterfeiting.