Superman: The Man of Steel ##22
DC Comics • Superman: The Man of Steel Vol. 1
Writer
Louise Simonson
Interior Artist
Jon Bogdanove
Cover Artist
Jon Bogdanove and Dennis Janke
Publication Date
June 1993
Cover Variant
Regular/Direct Edition (includes Man of Steel poster mention)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Part of the 'Reign of the Supermen' storyline following the Death of Superman. This issue features the Steel (John Henry Irons) as he officially takes up the mantle in Metropolis. Key characters include Steel, White Rabbit, and Lois Lane.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine- (CGC 7.5)
Condition Details
Visible color-breaking spine stress marks, moderate corner blunting on the bottom right, and a bright yellow price sticker on the top right corner of the polybag (which may leave residue or a compression mark on the cover). General light surface wear and minor edge softening.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5 - $15; Graded (9.8): $60 - $80
Recent Sales
Recent raw sales range from $3 to $12 depending on condition. Graded 9.8 copies have recently sold for approximately $75.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The comic is part of the high-circulation 'Reign of the Supermen' era. Only 9.8 copies generally cover the cost of grading and shipping; the visible spine wear on this copy suggests a grade lower than what is required to make grading profitable.
Notable Features
First appearance of the 'Steel' persona by John Henry Irons (though his first appearance as a character was in issue #18). Part of the iconic Reign of the Supermen multi-title crossover. Features a 'Busting Out' cover design.
Authentication Notes
Appears to be a genuine first printing from 1993. The paper stock and ink saturation are consistent with DC's standard production of that era. The presence of the original polybag (indicated by the sticker) suggests it may still contain the 'Man of Steel' poster.