Expert: Chris Brown - 12/3/2009

Question
Hello, I am trying to glean whatever information I can about my Superman #1 1939 reprint. This is the oversized (approximately 10x13.5") yellow cover, simply titled "Superman" which is 64 pages in length and in full color. The condition of the thin, fragile cover leaves much to be desired - dogeared, several tears and a fairly large portion of the upper righthand corner are missing (majority of the letters A and N are gone). Some staining on the cover is also evident. The interior is in much better condition, with all pages accounted for and firmly bound in place. A few of the first pages are slightly torn, but overall everything inside is intact.

My main curiosity is regarding value; does this book have ANY value at all other than sentimental? I would also love to learn how I would go about determining the year this particular reprint was published. Your reponse is appreciated!

Answer
Hi Bink

The comic you have is an issue of Famous First Edition and was published in 1979.  It should have an outside cover stating that "Famous First Edition" on it.  If not, unfortunately, your copy is incomplete.  This issue originally sold for $2.00 and is an exact replica of Superman #1 except for the extra cover and the larger size.

As to value, based on the condition you describe, this issue does not have any collectible value.  It's priceguide price would be less than $4.  That is assuming it still has the "Famous First Edition" cover.  I'm guessing yours might not, in which case, it would be worth significantly less.

Still a fun reprint of one of the most important comics ever published though!

Chris