1966 Topps Superman Checklist

The 1966 Topps Superman trading card set was inspired by the Adventures of Superman television show which aired for six seasons between 1952 and 1958. Topps released several non-sports sets during this period which were taken from popular films and movies of the day but Superman had been off the air for eight years by the time this set was released.

Eager to capitalize on the massive popularity of the Batman television show (and the five associated card sets of this same year), Topps could justify this untimely addition to their catalog because, in 1965, the show was made available via syndication. Although only the first two seasons of the show were filmed in black and white, and 60s syndication was in color, this set features black and white stills taken from the series.

The first 44 cards have orange backs and a factoid explaining the image on the front alongside a picture of Superman in his iconic stance. There are variations to these backs, including one variation which does not include the orange background, that revolve around copyright placement and inclusion of a “Watch Superman on T.V.” ad at the bottom of the card. The remaining cards in the set are backed with puzzle pieces.

Clicking a link within the checklist will direct you to an affiliate retailer or to relevant eBay listings

1966 Topps Superman Checklist