Stolen Superman Comic from Nicolas Cage Sells for Record $15 Million
A rare edition of “Action Comics No. 1,” featuring the debut of Superman, has set a new record by selling for $15 million. This remarkable sale highlights the comic’s significance in both the comic book industry and American pop culture.
Record-Breaking Sale
The sale was finalized by Metropolis Collectibles/Comic Connect, a Manhattan-based firm. The identities of the buyer and seller remain confidential. This transaction surpasses the previous record of $9.12 million for “Superman No. 1,” achieved last November.
Historical Context
Originally published in 1938 for just 10 cents, “Action Comics No. 1” introduced Superman’s origin story. It tells of his birth on the dying planet Krypton, his journey to Earth, and his commitment to using his powers for the benefit of humanity.
Scarcity and Significance
Approximately 100 copies of this groundbreaking comic exist today, according to Vincent Zurzolo, President of Metropolis Collectibles. He emphasized its monumental importance in the comic book community, stating, “Without Superman, there would be no Batman or other superhero legends.”
Theft and Recovery
This particular copy of “Action Comics No. 1” was stolen from actor Nicolas Cage in 2000. After disappearing for over a decade, it was recovered in 2011 by a man who had purchased an old storage locker in Southern California. The comic was then returned to Cage, who had initially acquired it for $150,000 in 1996.
Impact on Value
Following its return, Cage sold the comic at auction for $2.2 million just six months later. Stephen Fishler, CEO of Metropolis Collectibles/Comic Connect, remarked that the theft actually increased the comic’s value significantly. He drew a parallel to the famous theft of the Mona Lisa, suggesting that both incidents elevated their respective icons’ status in popular culture.
Conclusion
This sale of “Action Comics No. 1” for $15 million underscores its status as a “Holy Grail” in the comic book world. It not only represents Superman’s legacy but also illustrates the interplay between theft and value in collectible markets.
