Superman - Black Suit
sh077 · Super Heroes
DC Universe - Superman/Man of Steel · 2013
Figure ID
sh077
Theme
Super Heroes
Year Released
2013
Rarity
Ultra-rare; limited to 200 units produced as a San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC) exclusive.
Head
Flesh tone with dual-sided printing: one side features a determined grit, the other shows 'Heat Vision' eyes colored red with cheek lines. Hair is the standard Clark Kent mold in black with the signature 'S' curl.
Torso
Black torso with silver/light gray printing depicting the Kryptonian 'S' crest (House of El) and detailed muscle definition inspired by the Man of Steel suit. Plain black arms with light gray hands.
Legs
Black legs with silver printing on the hips and thighs representing the continuation of the suit's metallic trim and lining.
Accessories
Includes a custom thin black fabric cape. There were no handheld accessories included with this promotional release.
Color Scheme
Monochromatic; primarily Black, Silver, and Light Gray with red accents on the heat-vision head variant.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing. Features detailed muscle contouring on the front/back of the torso and front leg detailing. This was state-of-the-art for 2013 promotional figures.
Variants
This is the exclusive SDCC version. A similar 'Black Suit' Superman appeared later in 2021 (sh730) but featured a different head, torso design, and hair mold, making this 2013 version distinct and significantly more valuable.
Condition Notes
Subject to 'cape fraying' at the edges. The neck hole of the cape can stretch if handled too much. Silver printing can be prone to scratching or 'play wear' if not kept in a protective case.
Estimated Value
New (in original blister pack): $4,000 - $6,000 USD. Used (Mint condition): $1,500 - $2,500 USD. Value is highly dependent on the authenticity of the cape and headpiece.
Price (New)
Distributed via a random drawing at the 2013 San Diego Comic-Con; it had no retail price, though the secondary market value skyrocketed immediately upon release.
Compatible Sets
None. This was a promotional standalone figure not included in any standard retail building sets.
Character Background
This figure represents Superman in his recovery suit, seen in the 'Death and Return of Superman' comics and later adapted into the Snyder Cut of Justice League. The black suit helps solar absorption for Kryptonians.
Design Notes
Uses the 2013 Man of Steel movie aesthetic but applies the classic comic book 'Return of Superman' color palette. The silver printing was designed to look metallic under direct light.
Similar Minifigures
sh730 (Black Suit Superman 2021), sh003 (Classic Superman), sh073 (Man of Steel Superman), and the Comic-Con exclusive sh012 (Action Comics #1 Superman).
Collectibility
Extremely high. It is considered a 'Holy Grail' for DC Super Heroes collectors due to the strict 200-unit production limit and the popularity of the character.
History
Released during the peak of the 'Man of Steel' film promotion. It marked one of the first times LEGO used a movie-style mold for a comic-inspired 'alternate' costume for a top-tier DC hero.
Interesting Facts
The figure was given away in a plastic 'clamshell' blister pack with a cardboard backing plate. Because only 200 were made, it is one of the rarest Superman figures ever officially produced by the LEGO Group.
Display Suggestions
Should be kept in a UV-protected acrylic case. Best displayed with a spotlight to catch the silver metallic printing on the chest. Avoid high-humidity areas to protect the fabric cape.
Modification Potential
Low modification potential recommended due to value; however, some fans use the torso for custom 'Steel' or 'General Zod' MOCs. Purist collectors should never modify this figure.
Overall Assessment
A 10/10 centerpiece for any LEGO collection. Its combination of absolute rarity, iconic character status, and sleek design makes it a premier investment piece.