Superman Universe: Super-Family Characters to Collect

Superman is not an isolated hero: over the decades, DC Comics has built a veritablefamily of characterswho share his powers, his Kryptonian heritage or his values. For collectors, this “Superman Family” offers fascinating territory for exploration, with first appearances that range from the very affordable to the highly sought-after.

This guide maps the essential characters of the Superman universe, identifies their key first appearances, and offers collecting strategies for each member of the family. Whether you're looking for a cohesive collection theme or targeted investments, the Superman Family holds opportunities for every budget.

Supergirl (Kara Zor-El) — The Kryptonian cousin

Supergirlis the most popular and collected member of the Superman Family after Clark himself. His first appearance inAction Comics #252(May 1959) is a major key issue of the Silver Age which continues to appreciate.

Key first appearances

Action Comics #252(1959) — First appearance of Supergirl (Kara Zor-El). CGC 6.0: $3,000-5,000. CGC 4.0: $1,500-2,500. CGC 2.0: $600-1,000. A major investment but a comic of capital historical importance.

Superman/Batman #8(2004) — First appearance of modern Supergirl (post-Crisis Kara). Drawn by Michael Turner. CGC 9.8:$80-150. A much more accessible entry point for collectors on a budget.

Supergirl #1(2005) — First issue of the modern solo series by Jeph Loeb and Ian Churchill. CGC 9.8: $30-50. Turner varying: $60-100.

Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow #1(2021) — Series by Tom King which inspired the announced film. CGC 9.8:$100-200. Strong increase since the casting announcement.

Supergirl Collection Strategy

For a complete Supergirl collection, aim for Superman/Batman #8 as an accessible centerpiece, supplement with the 2005 solo series, and invest in Woman of Tomorrow #1 before the film's release. If budget allows, an Action Comics #252 in modest grade (2.0-3.0) anchors the collection beautifully.

Superboy — Sons of Superman

Kon-El (the 90s clone)

Adventures of Superman #500(June 1993) — First appearance of Superboy (Kon-El/Conner Kent), the clone of Superman created by Cadmus. CGC 9.8:$40-70. This issue is part of “Reign of the Supermen” and marks the debut of a character who has become cult in Young Justice and Teen Titans.

Superboy #1(1994) — First issue of the solo series. CGC 9.8: $30-50.

Jon Kent (biological son)

Convergence: Superman #2(2015) — Birth of Jon Kent. CGC 9.8:$60-100. The real first appearance of the character.

Superman #10(Rebirth, 2016) — Jon Kent in Superboy costume for the first time. CGC 9.8: $30-50.

Superman: Son of Kal-El #1(2021) — Jon Kent takes up the mantle of Superman. CGC 9.8: $20-40. Multiple variations.

Superboy Collection Strategy

Jon Kent is the future of the Superman franchise at DC. His first appearances are still affordable but could explode if a film or series highlights the character. Convergence: Superman #2 is the sleeper to watch.

Steel (John Henry Irons) — The hero forged by inspiration

Steelis one of the four "Supermen" who appeared after the death of Superman in 1992. An African-American engineer who built an armor in homage to Superman, he became a permanent character in the DC universe.

Key first appearances

Adventures of Superman #500(1993) — Steel's first cameo (shared with the other Supermen). CGC 9.8: $40-70.

Superman: The Man of Steel #22(1993) — Steel's first full appearance in costume. CGC 9.8:$50-90.

Steel #1(1994) — First issue of the solo series, chrome cover. CGC 9.8: $25-40.

Investment potential

Steel is regularly cited as a character likely to get his own film or series in James Gunn's new DCU. His first appearances remain very approachable for a character with such cinematic potential.

Power Girl (Kara Zor-L) — The Supergirl of Earth-2

Power Girlis Earth-2's version of Supergirl, an independent and powerful heroine who has developed her own identity over the decades.

Key first appearances

All-Star Comics #58(1976) — First appearance of Power Girl. CGC 9.8:$800-1,500. CGC 9.6: $400-600. CGC 9.0: $150-250.

Power Girl #1(2009) — Solo series by Jimmy Palmiotti and Amanda Conner. CGC 9.8: $30-50. Adam Hughes varying: $60-100.

Power Girl #1(2023) — Recent relaunch. CGC 9.8: $20-35.

Market context

Power Girl is a character with a dedicated fanbase. All-Star Comics #58 is a premier Bronze Age key issue that is steadily increasing in value. This is a solid investment for collectors targeting DC's early female appearances.

Krypto the Super Dog

Superman's canine best friend saw a massive resurgence in popularity with the animated film "DC League of Super-Pets" (2022).

Key first appearances

Adventure Comics #210(March 1955) — First appearance of Krypto. CGC 6.0:$800-1,200. CGC 4.0: $400-600. An underrated Silver Age key issue that has risen sharply since the animated film.

Superman #680(2008) — Modern Return of Krypto. NM: $5-10.

Other family members to watch out for

Bizarro

Superboy #68(1958) — First appearance of Bizarro. CGC 6.0: $500-800. An iconic villain/anti-hero whose value remains stable.

Natasha Irons (Steel's niece)

Steel #1(1994) — First appearance of Natasha Irons. Same issue as #1 of the Steel series. She became a hero in her own right under the name Starlight.

Kenan Kong (Super-Man of China)

New Super-Man #1(2016) — First issue. CGC 9.8: $25-40. A character with potential for diversity that DC could exploit more.

The Superman Family offers a collectible spectrum ranging from $20 to $5,000, with characters for all tastes and budgets. It's one of the most rewarding collecting themes in the DC Comics universe.