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So you, or someone you know has discovered the wonderful world of comics. Congratulations! Generally we delve into the realm of comics for a variety of reasons, after all the art is marvelous, the stories enthralling, etc. Our reasons for entering the realm of comic collecting are personal but there are some things that every collector should know. Most of us just starting out 26 years ago wish someone had mentioned these things to us.
First, you need to decide why you're collecting comics. If it is for the enjoyment of the stories, as it was for me, then you are in for hours of fun. However, if it is in the hopes of selling them in furture for profit, the variables in selecting which titles to buy are many, what is popular now may not be so in 20 years. Either way this is written for everyone who is just getting into collecting comics.
Some words on where to purchase your comics:
Reasons to Purchase Comics at a Comic Book Store
- the books are generally handled with more care, it is rare for anyone to bend them over to peak behind them, and there is less contact with people who do not appreciate the value of a comic and it's condition. This means the books purchased usually come into my possession in the best condition possible.
-the availability of items needed for the proper storage of comics. It is easier to purchase the bags, backings and boxes at the same time you buy the comics, thus keeping the books in good condition from the start.
-most, if not all, comic stores will give you a small % off your purchases, especially if you buy more than one title a month.
-if you live some distance from the store, comic stores will generally allow you to fill out a list of titles you wish set aside for you every month, and hold them til you arrive to pick them up. You may also select to recieve any new issues released. If you are considering this option, take a moment to discuss the conditions of the books you wish set aside for you.
This of course is based on my experience with the comic stores here, so call around and check out the ones closest to you and see which is best.
If there are no easily accessable comic stores for you, here are some things to consider:
-find out when the comics arrive at the store, regardless of whether it is a corner store or a 7-11.
-get there as soon as you can to select the issues you wish at the best condition possible (when touched by as few people as possible).
-after dealing with one store for almost a year, I spoke to with the person who set up the display, and was fortunate that they agreed to set things aside for me, being careful how they handled them.
Remember most people do not know how even fingerprints on the dark colors on the cover can detract from the value of a book in later years.
The condition of the individual comic books you decide to buy does matter. Here are a few things to remember that most don't know.
The books that you are looking to purchase appear as brand new as possible. Avoid purchasing books with:
- white down the spine, unless it is part of the artwork it shifts the cover off center.
- dark covers show up fingerprints, avoid buying those that are covered in other people's hand prints.
- with tears, curls, folds...ets.
Take your time to buy a book that looks good to you, with as few flaws as possible, place the book in a protective bag with a backing as soon as you can, so that in the future should you ever decide to part with it, you will be proud of the book the other person is getting, as well as get some money out of it.
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