CATALOG RECORD

Superman #53

DC · Series began 1939 · July-August 1948

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Dates

Cover date: July-August 1948
On sale: May 3, 1948
Pages: 52

Editions and covers

Original edition
Source ↗

Creators

pencils: Wayne Boring, C. C. Beck, Al Plastino, Henry Boltinoff, Lit-Win, Phil Berubeinks: Stan Kaye, C. C. Beck, Al Plastino, Henry Boltinoff, Lit-Win, Phil Berubescript: Bill Finger, Al Schwartz, Henry Boltinoff, Lit-Win, Joe Samachson, Phil Berube, Don C. Cameronletters: Henry Boltinoff

Stories

An Open Letter to Superman Fans · 0.67 pages
List of Superman's accomplishments in the "real world."
The Origin of Superman! · 10 pages
After a prologue which demonstrates Superman's amazing abilities, his origin is recounted. On the scientifically advanced planet of Krypton, Jor-El fails to convince the Council of Five that Krypton is doomed. As Krypton explodes, Jor-El and Lara send their son to Earth, where he is found and adopted by the elderly Kents. As Clark grows to maturity he manifests abilities far beyond that of mortal men. On his deathbed, his father urges Clark to become a powerful force for good as Superman.
The Oracle from Metropolis! · 10 pages
Professor Grog accidentally sends Superman and mechanic Mike Mooney back to ancient Egypt. The cynical Mooney tries to come up with ways to make money off of the Delphic Oracle, but Superman teaches him not to scoff at things he doesn't understand.
Untitled · 2 pages
Shorty is excited that he made the baseball team until he discovers that he was made the bat boy.
Untitled · 0.67 pages
Daffy catches up with a streetcar as it reaches its final stop.
The Tiniest Things in the World · 2 pages
Information about atoms and atomic radiation.
Mister Grumble · 1 pages
Mrs. Grumble ensure she can have a breakfast conversation with Mr. Grumble.
A Job for Superhombre! · 13 pages
The Eye takes all the criminals in Metropolis to South America to set up a giant piracy operation, using the home of an old friend of Lois' as a front.
Untitled · 0.5 pages
Homer ensures he is buying the correct rolling pin.

Characters

Clark KentSupermanLois LaneLex LuthorPerry WhiteJonathan KentMartha KentJor-ElLaraShortyHomerDaffy

Reprinted in

Superman (1948), Superman: The Golden Age Omnibus (2013), Three-Dimension Adventures Superman (1953), Superman from the Thirties to the Seventies (1971), The Best of DC (1979), The Greatest Superman Stories Ever Told (1987), The Greatest Superman Stories Ever Told (1987), Superman in the Forties (2005), Superman: A Celebration of 75 Years (2013), DC Comics: The Golden Age (1938-1956) (2023)