Additional Coverage:
- ‘Antiques Roadshow’ guest stunned by valuation of rare Superman sketch that his ‘wife does not like’ (marketrealist.com)
A “Superman” sketch tucked away in a closet turned out to be a super find for one lucky “Antiques Roadshow” guest. The drawing, rescued from a roll by the guest, features the iconic hero and bears the signatures of both Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, Superman’s creators.
The guest recounted the sketch’s fascinating origin story. His father, Ralph Andy, received the drawing as a gift while attending a performance at the Cleveland Stage Door Canteen during World War II. Siegel and Shuster were entertaining the troops before deployment and presented the sketch to Andy.
Appraiser Philip Weiss confirmed the drawing’s authenticity and historical significance, noting the creators’ distinctive style. He pointed out that while Superman’s first appearance is often associated with Action Comics #1, it was actually a fanzine titled “Reign of Superman” that first introduced the character. Weiss also highlighted the rarity of a sketch signed by both Siegel and Shuster, making this particular piece even more valuable.
Despite some wrinkling, which Weiss assured only added to its provenance, the sketch was appraised at $4,000 to $6,000. The guest, clearly surprised and delighted, exclaimed, “Oh, that’s great!”
He also humorously admitted that his wife wasn’t a fan of the drawing, relegating it to their bedroom, much to her displeasure. Perhaps this newfound valuation will change her mind.