Action Comics #1 used as insulation makes $175,000

A copy of the famed Action Comics #1, with a highly unusual story, has auctioned for $175,000 with Comic Connect.

Featuring the first appearance of Superman, the 1938 publication always causes a stir at auction. Yet the fact that this particular copy was discovered by a contractor renovating a 1930s home only added to the intrigue.

Action Comics #1 wall found
Good for insulation: Action Comics #1

It had been used as insulation in the walls of the house, and was surrounded with newspapers from the 1930s, suggesting it had been lying in situ for 75 years.

The comic was graded CGC Fair/Good 1.5 ahead of the June 11-ending auction, a result of its off-white pages and detached cover.

Despite its fascinating back story, collectors demand pristine condition if they are going to part with major sums.

And while $175,000 is no inconsiderable price tag, it pales in comparison to the 9.0-graded copy formerly owned by Nicholas Cage that sold at Comic Connect for $2.1m in 2011.

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