Since 1938, Action Comics has been published continuously – one of the longest-running series in comics history. Discover the most expensive issues, key milestones, and the current state of the series.
On April 18, 1938, Action Comics No. 1 was published – and with it began a comic series that still runs continuously today. What started as an anthology with several short stories soon developed into a Superman-dominated series that established the superhero comic as a genre of its own. For the history of the Action Comics series since 1938 and Superman’s debut in No. 1, see the detailed home page.
In total, more than 1,097 issues have been published so far. The numbering was not always linear: From 1938 to 2011, the comics were numbered consecutively up to No. 904. With the “New 52” relaunch in 2011, DC Comics started again at No. 1 and published 52 issues through 2016. As part of “DC Rebirth,” the series returned to legacy numbering in 2016 – beginning with No. 957 to continue the historical total count.
The current issue is No. 1097 (April 2026), written by Mark Waid with art by Skylar Patridge. That makes Action Comics one of the longest-running comic series in the world.
The early issues of the Action Comics series are among the most sought-after collector’s items worldwide. These six comics fetch the highest prices at auction – and each tells its own story.
First appearance of Superman – the most valuable comic in the world. Of the original print run, only about 50–100 copies are known worldwide.
The immediate sequel to No. 1 – second appearance of Superman and Lois Lane. In the Overstreet Price Guide among the Top 20 Golden Age comics.
One of the most sought-after early issues from the series’ debut year. High-grade copies are extremely rare.
After No. 1, the most expensive regular Action Comics issue. Shows Superman in iconic flight over a city on the cover.
First issue featuring Lex Luthor as Superman’s arch-enemy – one of the most famous villains in comics history.
Introduction of Supergirl (Kara Zor-El), Superman’s cousin from Krypton – one of the most important female superheroes in the DC Universe.
First appearance of Superman, created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster. Birth of the superhero genre. Cover date: June 1938.
First appearance of Lex Luthor – Superman’s arch-enemy is introduced and has shaped the series ever since.
First appearance of Brainiac, Superman’s dangerous foe from space, who stole and miniaturized the city of Kandor.
Introduction of Supergirl (Kara Zor-El) – Superman’s cousin from Krypton becomes one of the most important superheroes in the DC Universe.
Anniversary issue with an epic look back at Superman’s entire life and adventures. A novelty in comic format at the time.
“What’s So Funny About Truth, Justice & the American Way?” – one of the most acclaimed Superman stories of all time. Later adapted as an animated film.
No. 900: Superman renounces his American citizenship – widely discussed around the world. With the “New 52” relaunch, DC restarts at No. 1 (2011–2016).
As part of “DC Rebirth,” the series returns to historical numbering – with No. 957, the tradition dating back to 1938 is picked up again.
As the first American comic book ever, Action Comics reaches issue No. 1000. The 80-page special issue features contributions from writers and artists across all decades.
Anniversary issue marking 85 years of the series, with special covers and contributions from various artists.
The current issue from April 2026. Writer: Mark Waid, artist: Skylar Patridge. The series continues to ship monthly.
In No. 1097, heroes from the future – Booster Gold, Mary Marvel, and Martian Manhunter – travel to the past to help a young Superboy fight the villain Epoch. At the same time, Clark Kent struggles to keep his secret identity from Lana Lang’s father.
Action Comics is and remains DC Comics’ flagship series. With over 88 years of publishing history and no end in sight, the series shows that the Superman myth is timeless. The series continues to ship monthly and ranks among the best-selling comic series in the USA.
The next major milestone is within reach: Action Comics No. 1100 is expected in 2026 and will likely be celebrated with a special issue – just like No. 500, No. 900, and No. 1000 before it.
Superman himself continues to evolve: Under writers like Mark Waid, the character returns to his roots as a protector of the weak – exactly the values that Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster built into him in 1938.
Anyone who wants to experience the roots of this legendary series will find the ideal entry point in a high-quality reprint of Action Comics No. 1 – the comic that started it all.