Action Comics 1

Definition
Action Comics 1 is the inaugural issue of the American comic book series Action Comics, published by National Allied Publications (later DC Comics) in June 1938. It is historically notable for introducing the superhero Superman, created by writer Jerry Siegel and artist Joe Shuster.

Overview
The 64‑page, 96‑mm × 165‑mm (3.78 in × 6.5 in) comic was released in a standard black‑and‑white newsprint format, with a three‑color cover. Its initial print run was approximately 200,000 copies; the issue sold out quickly, prompting a second printing in September 1938. Action Comics 1 is regarded as the launch point of the modern superhero genre and has become one of the most valuable and sought‑after comic books among collectors, with high‑grade copies fetching six‑figure sums at auction.

Etymology/Origin
The title combines the generic term “action,” indicating a focus on dynamic, adventure‑type storytelling, with the numeral “1” to denote the series’ first issue. The Action Comics title was originally intended for a superhero anthology; the inclusion of Siegel and Shuster’s Superman story was a last‑minute addition that transformed the publication’s commercial prospects.

Characteristics

• Publisher: National Allied Publications (later DC Comics)
• Publication date: June 1938 (cover‑dated June 1938)
• Format: 64 pages, 8 ½ × 11 in (standard comic book size of the era)
• Cover art: Joe Shuster, featuring the debut of Superman lifting a car.
• Interior content: Four stories:
  1. “Superman” (Siegel & Shuster) – 13 pages, introducing the character.
  2. “Zatara—The Magician” (Fred Hamel) – 13 pages.
  3. “The Adventures of Johnny Quick” (Merrill K. Stewart) – 13 pages.
  4. “The Shield” (Charles F. Kelley) – 13 pages.
• Printing: Black‑and‑white interior with a three‑color (red, blue, yellow) cover.
• Significance: Established Superman as the first major comic‑book superhero; set narrative and visual conventions later adopted throughout the medium.

Related Topics

• Superman (character)
• DC Comics
• Golden Age of Comic Books
• Comic book collecting and grading (e.g., CGC, CBCS)
• Action Comics (the ongoing series)
• Siegel & Shuster (creators)
• First appearances in comics (e.g., Marvel #1, Detective Comics #27)