Like mythological Greek gods of old, superheroes captivate the imaginations of people of all ages. Superman’s 1938 debut kicked off the golden age of comic books. Created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, Superman became an instant sensation with audiences, inspired by the "Man of Tomorrow's" virtue and heroics. Superheroes have used their breathtaking powers to fight evildoers ever since. More superheroes have emerged throughout the decades, thrilling comic readers with their exploits, and their massive success in making the leap to movie screens around the world makes this a new golden age for these larger-than-life characters.
Stan Lee (born Stanley Lieber) was another one of the creators of the modern superhero template. His gift for storytelling, with multi-dimensional heroes and villains, entertained audiences around the world. His work on early comics featuring Spider-Man, Iron Man, The Hulk, Thor, and The Avengers helped lead Marvel to success. Lee used his platform to speak out against bigotry and racism by proclaiming the availability of the hero's journey for everyone. Lee and Jack Kirby famously created the first black superhero in mainstream American comics; the Black Panther made his first comic book appearance in 1966. Lee continued to reinvent himself and delight fans in movie cameos as a cultural icon in his own right.
Explore items in our collections related to superheroes, including comic books, original comic art, movie and television costumes and props, and memorabilia.
Superman No. 31
National Museum of American History
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Superman Costume, worn by George Reeves on The Adventures of Superman
National Museum of American History
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Shield used by Chris Evans as Captain America in Captain America:The Winter Soldier
National Museum of American History
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41c Captain America single
National Postal Museum
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Duncan Magic Motion Superman Yo-Yo
National Museum of American History
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41c Cover of Captain America #100 single
National Postal Museum
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America’s Greatest Comics No. 8
National Museum of American History
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Costume for Black Panther worn by Chadwick Boseman
National Museum of African American History and Culture
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Superman Lunch Box
National Museum of American History
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Store Poster, Superman Junior Defense League
National Museum of American History
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Captain America Slurpee Cup
National Museum of American History
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Captain Marvel No. 5
National Museum of American History
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Clark Kent's Eyeglasses in Superman IV: The Quest for Peace
National Museum of American History
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Black Panther #1
National Museum of American History
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Catwoman costume from Catwoman
National Museum of American History
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41c Cover of The Hulk #1 single
National Postal Museum
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Storm costume from X-Men: Days of Future Past
National Museum of American History
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Black Panther, Vol. 1 No. 4
National Museum of American History
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"Turn off the Dark" Spider Man costume worn in Broadway show
National Museum of American History
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41c Wolverine single
National Postal Museum
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Batman cowl worn by George Clooney in Batman and Robin
National Museum of American History
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Superman No. 108
National Museum of American History
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Wonder Woman Was Based on This Real-Life Lady
Smithsonian Channel
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Superman #180, “The Girl Who Was Mightier Than Superman”
National Museum of American History
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Superman
National Portrait Gallery
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41c Cover of Spider-Man #1 single
National Postal Museum
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Marvel Comic's Super Heroes Thermos
National Museum of American History
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Superman No. 108
National Museum of American History
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41c The Hulk single
National Postal Museum
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Autographed Justice League Unlimited finale script cover and illustrated cell
National Museum of African American History and Culture
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Superman No. 184
National Museum of American History
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Forever Mail a Smile: The Incredibles single
National Postal Museum
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Lois Lane No. 106
National Museum of American History
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Superman Telephone
National Museum of American History
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World's Finest Comics No. 5
National Museum of American History
