Unless something has changed, the prospective film will not feature Ellis. Abrams previously said that his and Coates’ story would center on an African-American Clark Kent. When it comes to live-action projects, it is a knee-jerk reaction for collectors to grab those key issues. In this case, there’s never been a Black Clark Kent, so investors and collectors alike will aim for the next best thing, and that’s Calvin Ellis’ key issues. After all, he is the first Black Superman, and there could be some inspiration taken from that specific character.
That begs the question: what key issues should you be watching for? I’m glad you asked.
FINAL CRISIS #7
The first time we met Calvin was in Final Crisis #7. Although he wasn’t named, he was clearly featured in the group shot of the Supermen of the Multiverse. While we don’t know exactly what Gunn is planning for the future, the Multiverse should be a major part of any Chapter One overarching plots. That leaves the door open for the various Supermen to arrive, including Calvin.
Two years ago, the standard cover graded at a 9.8 averaged over $300. Since then, the prices have dipped to more reasonable levels, and you can own one for less than $100 at the moment. If you happen to want the variant edition with Calvin’s face on the cover art, that one has averaged $150 for the past year.
ACTION COMICS #9
After arriving on the scene in the battle against Darkseid, Calvin was given his first starring role during the New 52’s Action Comics #9. Here we learned his full origin story, which is an added bonus for your collection.
For the past 90 days, the graded 9.8 has a respectable $103 FMV.
EARTH-2 #19
The news that Coates and Abrams’ African-American Superman project should bring attention back to Val-Zod. The Superman of Earth-2, at one point Michael B. Jordan’s production studio was planning to develop an HBO Max series based on the character. Considering the he already looks like Jordan, it was only natural to assume the Creed actor would play the part.
There’s been no news on that topic in years, but I would not be surprised if Gunn were to address this in the near future. That would cause a spike in Val-Zodd’s key issues, beginning with his first non-costumed appearance in Earth-2 #19, a comic you can own at a 9.8 for around $255 for the standard cover and closer to $450 for the variant.
A JOB FOR SUPERMAN OF EARTH-23
When last we heard from Abrams, he had confirmed that Calvin would not be the Superman of Coates’ script. However, we don’t know what the future could hold. Considering Grant Morrison’s influence on the first half of Chapter One, Final Crisis could be adapted at some point down the line. It would be a sight to behold if we were to meet the Supermen of the Multiverse, specifically Calvin Ellis.
