11 Most Expensive Comic Books Ever Sold

Below is a list of the most expensive comics ever sold. 

1. A CGC 8.0 graded copy of Superman #1 was sold the last year, 2022, for an incredible $5.3 million in a private sale, making it the most expensive comic book sold three times in a year. This particular copy is tied for the highest-graded version of the 84-year-old comic and originates from the renowned Edgar Church/Mile High collection. Its reign as the top-selling comic book may be short-lived. However, only time will tell.
2. Action Comics #1 ($3.2 million) - Published in June 1938, Action Comics #1 is the first-ever appearance of Superman, the iconic character created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster. This groundbreaking comic book helped establish the superhero genre and is considered the holy grail of comic book collections. The highest-graded copy known to exist was sold in 2014 for a staggering $3.2 million.
3. Amazing Fantasy #15 ($3.6 million) - This pivotal comic book from August 1962 marks the debut of Spider-Man, created by the legendary duo of writer Stan Lee and artist Steve Ditko. Spider-Man's relatable struggles and unique powers captivated readers, and Amazing Fantasy #15 became a cornerstone of Marvel Comics. In 2021, a near-mint copy of the issue was sold for a record-breaking $3.6 million.
4. Detective Comics #27 ($2.22 million) - Detective Comics #27, released in May 1939, introduced Batman to the world. Created by Bob Kane and Bill Finger, Batman's dark and brooding nature quickly set him apart from other superheroes. This landmark issue gave rise to one of the most popular characters in comic book history and helped solidify DC Comics as a significant player in the industry. A high-grade copy of this issue was sold in 2021 for $2.22 million.
5. Batman #1 (1940) - Sold for $2.2 million
6. Batman #1 is the first comic book to feature the iconic duo of Batman and Robin, created by Bob Kane and Bill Finger. The issue includes several classic stories, including the debut of the Joker and Catwoman. Its historical importance and the first appearance of two major villains make Batman #1 a highly valuable collectible.
7. All-Star Comics #8 ($936,000) - First published in December 1941, All-Star Comics #8 marks the debut of Wonder Woman, created by William Moulton Marston and H.G. Peter. As a powerful female superhero, Wonder Woman broke new ground in the comic book world and quickly became iconic. A high-quality copy of this significant issue was auctioned in 2017 for $936,000.
8. Superman #1 (1939) - Sold for $507,500
9. Following the success of Action Comics #1, Superman #1 was the first comic book devoted solely to the Man of Steel. The comic book reprints Superman's origin story from Action Comics #1, along with new material detailing his early years. As one of the earliest superhero comic books, Superman #1 holds a special place in the hearts of collectors and fans alike
10. X-Men #1 ($492,937) - Published in September 1963, X-Men #1 is the first appearance of Marvel's famous mutant superhero team. Created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, the X-Men's unique abilities and diverse backgrounds resonated with readers, making this issue a classic. In 2012, a pristine copy of X-Men #1 was sold for $492,937.
11. Incredible Hulk #1 ($326,000) - This May 1962 issue marked the first appearance of the Hulk, another iconic creation by the prolific duo of Stan Lee and Jack Kirby. The story of Dr. Bruce Banner, who transforms into the monstrous Hulk when angered, captured the imagination of readers. A high-grade copy of this historical issue was sold for $326,000 in 2014.
12. Captain America Comics #1 ($343,000) - Released in March 1941, Captain America Comics #1 introduced the world to Captain America and his trusty sidekick, Bucky Barnes. Created by Joe Simon and Jack Kirby, Captain America symbolized patriotism and the fight against tyranny during World War II. A high-quality copy of this vital issue was auctioned for $343,000 in 2011.
13. Amazing Spider-Man #1 ($262,900) - Following the success of Spider-Man's debut in Amazing Fantasy #15, the character was given his own series in 1963. Written by Stan Lee and illustrated by Steve Dit

How are comic books graded?

Comic books are graded by professional third-party grading companies that evaluate their physical condition and assign a grade based on a standardized set of criteria. The 10-point scale established by the Certified Guaranty Company (CGC) is the most commonly used grading system.

To determine a comic book's grade, a grader first inspects the book's physical condition, looking for defects such as tears, creases, spine stress marks, and other flaws. They will also examine the book's pages for any signs of discoloration, damage, or missing pages.

After evaluating the book's physical condition, the grader assigns a numerical grade on a 10-point scale, with 10 being a perfect book and 0.5 being a heavily damaged one. The grading companies may also use other grading systems, such as the 100-point scale or the alphabetical grading system.

Once the grading process is complete, the comic book is encapsulated in a tamper-evident case to protect it from further damage and preserve its condition. This grading system ensures that comic book collectors and investors can purchase books with confidence, knowing that a professional third-party grading company has evaluated the book.

So how do I get my hands on valuable comic books without paying top money? Some comic book hunters go on flea markets and garage sales looking for that hidden gem, and sometimes they are lucky and find some rare comic books.