Many fans are looking forward to the all-new Superman Treasury 2025: Hero for All, but for some of us, it’s a trip down comic book nirvana. Before comic shops, comic books often struggled to get distributed and noticed. The treasury edition dates back to 1972 and was initially comprised of reprinted material.
Over time, though, there were many treasuries with all-new material, especially featuring Superman versus someone. Over the past few years, DC has reprinted some of those Superman treasury editions in the familiar treasury format. And, even though they are decades old—they still make for some fantastic reads.
One of my favorites is Superman vs. Wonder Woman. What makes it unique is that it’s the only one, kind of, sort of set on Earth-2. I say sort of, because those costumes don’t quite match the Earth-2 versions of the heroes. Still, for a kid at the time, accustomed to a 17-page story in a regular format, this treasury was fantastically special, not only because of its larger format, but also because it was 72 pages long.
Taking place during World War II’s peak, this tale revolves around America’s classified atomic bomb project. Superman adopts a utilitarian stance, viewing the weapon as a means toresolve the conflict and save lives. Wonder Woman, guided by her warrior’s moral code, considers it an unforgivable transgression against humanity. Their philosophical clash erupts into physical combat, creating one of the Bronze Age’s most unforgettable superhero confrontations.
However, the story transcends mere action sequences. Gerry Conway crafts the narrative to explore more profound questions about war, morality, and the responsibilities that accompany great power. The finale, featuring antagonists Baron Blitzkrieg and Sumo the Samurai, ultimately affirms that genuine heroism emerges from solidarity and empathy rather than overwhelming strength.
José Luis García-López delivers exceptional artistry throughout this work. His precise linework, energetic page layouts, and emotionally rich character expressions enhance every scene. The large treasury dimensions (10″ x 13.5″) provide ample space for his visual storytelling, lending a film-like quality to the battle scenes while allowing contemplative moments to carry genuine weight. This collection demonstrates García-López’s enduring status as one of DC’s most celebrated artistic talents.
One of the more famous ones is the matchup between Superman and Muhammad Ali. Among comic book crossovers, Superman vs. Muhammad Ali ranks as one of the boldest and most memorable. Story by Denny O’Neil and Neal Adams, art by Neal Adams and inks by Dick Giordano and Terry Austin.Released during the peak of Superman’s cultural influence and Muhammad Ali’s worldwide celebrity, this large-format treasury edition represents a spectacular fusion of superhero mythology and authentic star power.
An extraterrestrial species called the Scrubb descends upon Earth with an ultimatum: the planet’s finest warrior must defeat their champion in a boxing contest, or face destruction. Both Superman and Muhammad Ali volunteer for this critical role. To determine Earth’s representative, the two icons must battle each other—beneath a red sun that neutralizes Superman’s abilities.
Ali becomes Superman’s mentor in boxing techniques, yet when the fight begins, the outcome becomes evident: Ali possesses superior pugilistic skills. He overcomes Superman in an intense yet honorable contest, securing his position as Earth’s defender. However, the narrative extends beyond this encounter—both champions must eventually join forces to prevent planetary catastrophe.
Neal Adams produces some of his most energetic and film-like artwork in this project. The large 10″ x 13.25″ treasury dimensions allow his visual storytelling to flourish, while the fight sequences—particularly the boxing scenes—pulse with raw energy and intensity. The wraparound cover has achieved iconic status, showcasing 172 meticulously illustrated celebrity appearances, ranging from Batman and Lex Luthor to Andy Warhol, Lucille Ball, and President Jimmy Carter.
Of course, possibly, the most famous one is Spider-Man! In 1976, comic readers experienced the unprecedented: DC’s Superman and Marvel’s Spider-Man appeared together in identical scenes and frames, ultimately exchanging blows. Superman vs. The Amazing Spider-Man transcended mere curiosity—it represented a groundbreaking achievement in publishing, a daring venture in cross-company partnership that succeeded in delivering spectacle, character development, and quintessential Bronze Age appeal. Written by Gerry Conway, with art by Ross Andru and inks by Dick Giordano, it features the perfect creative team that satisfied both DC and Marvel fans at the time.
Lex Luthor and Doctor Octopus join forces to threaten global domination through an orbital mind-control device. Superman and Spider-Man inevitably become entangled in the crisis. However, before they can collaborate, they fall victim to manipulation that pits them against one another—a typical superhero miscommunication, amplified by red sun energy that temporarily equalizes their abilities.
After their conflict concludes, the heroes unite to thwart their adversaries in a worldwide quest spanning Metropolis, New York, and the cosmos beyond.
Superman vs. The Amazing Spider-Man was not reprinted in treasury format, but it was included in the DC Versus Marvel Omnibus, released last year. That was a fanboy dream come true, because many die-hard fans didn’t think DC or Marvel would ever release those team-ups in a collected edition anytime soon.
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