Superman Comic Found in Attic Sells to Become Most Expensive Ever Sold
A long-forgotten Superman comic discovered in a dusty attic has become the most valuable comic book ever sold, fetching an astonishing $9.12 million (£7 million) at auction. The near-perfect copy of Superman No. 1 was uncovered in a Northern California home by three brothers sorting through their late mother’s belongings.
Graded an exceptional 9.0 by CGC, the world’s leading comics grading service, the 1939 issue shattered the previous record of $6 million, set by an 8.5-graded Action Comics No. 1 in 2024.
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Discovery
Despite being stored for decades in a simple cardboard box under a stack of old newspapers, the comic remained in remarkably pristine condition. The brothers, now in their 50s and 60s, had heard their mother mention a valuable comic collection but had never seen it.
“It’s a twist on the old ‘Mom threw away my comics’ story,” said Lon Allen, Vice President of Heritage Auctions, which handled the sale. “This copy is not only in unprecedented condition, but it has a movie-worthy backstory.”
The brothers contacted Heritage Auctions earlier this year, prompting Allen to travel to San Francisco to inspect the collection—six rare comics purchased by their mother and uncle between the Great Depression and World War II.
A Milestone in Pop Culture History
Industry experts hailed the sale as a defining moment in comic-book collecting.
“Superman No. 1 is a milestone in pop culture history,” Allen said. “I’m thrilled for our consignors and honoured that Heritage was entrusted with such an iconic book.”
Heritage Auctions noted that the mild Northern California climate likely saved the comics from deterioration. “If it had been in an attic here in Texas, it would have been ruined,” Allen added.
More Than Just a Comic Book
For the youngest of the brothers, the discovery carried deep emotional significance.
“This isn’t simply about old paper and ink,” he said. “It’s a testament to memory, family, and the unexpected ways the past finds its way back to us.”
Superman No. 1 has long been one of the world’s most sought-after comic books. Previous high-profile sales include a $5.3 million auction in 2022.
With this latest record-breaking sale, the legendary superhero has once again proven his enduring power—both culturally and financially.
