Comic Collecting Guides

Getting Started with Comic Collecting

Welcome to the exciting world of comic collecting! Whether you're drawn to superheroes, indie stories, or manga, collecting comics can be a rewarding hobby. Here's how to start:

1. Determine Your Focus

Before buying anything, decide what you want to collect:

• Characters/Teams: Follow specific heroes like Spider-Man or teams like X-Men
• Creators: Collect works by your favorite writers or artists
• Publisher: Focus on Marvel, DC, Image, Dark Horse, etc.
• Genre: Superhero, horror, sci-fi, fantasy, autobiography
• Format: Single issues, trade paperbacks, hardcovers, omnibuses

2. Essential Supplies

Protect your investment from day one:

• Comic Bags & Boards: Standard size for modern comics, Silver Age for older books
• Storage Boxes: Short boxes for easier handling, long boxes for bulk storage
• Backing Boards: Acid-free boards to prevent creasing and acid migration
• Gloves: White cotton gloves for handling valuable comics
• Magnifying Glass: For examining condition and details

3. Where to Buy

London has excellent options for comic purchases:

• Local Comic Shops (LCS): Support local businesses and get expert advice
• Conventions: Find rare issues and meet creators
• Online Marketplaces: eBay, MyComicShop, ComicConnect for specific issues
• Subscription Services: For weekly pull lists of new releases

Comic Preservation & Storage

Proper preservation is crucial for maintaining your comics' value and readability. Follow these guidelines:

1. Bagging & Boarding

Every comic should be bagged and boarded:

• Use Mylar bags for valuable comics - they last longer and don't become acidic
• Polyethylene bags are fine for reading copies
• Always use acid-free backing boards
• Replace bags every 5-10 years as they degrade

2. Storage Environment

Your storage location affects comic longevity:

• Temperature: Keep between 60-70°F (15-21°C)
• Humidity: Maintain 40-50% relative humidity
• Light: Store in complete darkness - UV light fades covers
• Position: Store boxes upright, never stack boxes on their sides

3. Handling Comics

Proper handling prevents damage:

• Wash and dry hands before handling
• Use gloves for valuable comics
• Hold comics by the edges, never bend the spine
• Don't force comics to lay flat if they resist
• Never eat or drink near your collection

Comic Grading Guide

Understanding comic grading is essential for collectors. Here's what you need to know:

Grading Scale Basics

• Mint (9.8-10.0): Perfect condition, looks brand new
• Near Mint (9.0-9.6): Almost perfect, minor flaws visible under magnification
• Very Fine (7.5-8.5): Slight wear, still excellent condition
• Fine (6.0): Noticeable wear but complete, staples may show rust
• Very Good (4.0): Significant wear but still readable, may have creases
• Good (2.0): Heavy wear, may have tears or missing pieces
• Fair (0.5): Poor condition, mainly for reading only

What Affects Grade

• Spine: Stress marks, rolling, or spine splits
• Covers: Creases, tears, stains, or fading
• Corners: Blunting, fraying, or dog-ears
• Pages: Discoloration, brittleness, or tears
• Staples: Rust, misalignment, or missing staples

Professional vs. Personal Grading

• Professional Grading: Worth it for keys worth £100+
• Personal Grading: Good for reading copies and filler issues
• Always Be Conservative: Grade lower than you think - buyers appreciate honesty
• Use Multiple Light Sources: Different angles reveal different flaws

Comic Buying Tips

Smart buying habits will save you money and help build a better collection:

Do's of Comic Buying

• Do research prices: Check recent eBay sold listings and price guides
• Do inspect carefully: Bring a small flashlight to conventions
• Do negotiate politely: Bundle purchases for better deals
• Do support local shops: Build relationships for first dibs on new arrivals
• Do set a budget: Stick to it to avoid impulse purchases

Don'ts of Comic Buying

• Don't buy damaged comics unless they're extremely rare or you're restoring
• Don't trust "investment advice" from sellers with something to gain
• Don't buy without comparing: Check multiple sellers for the same issue
• Don't overlook modern keys: First appearances and low print runs can appreciate
• Don't rush: Good deals come to those who wait

Best Times to Buy

• End of conventions: Sunday afternoon deals as vendors don't want to pack
• January-February: Post-holiday sales and slower market
• Local shop sales: Sign up for newsletters for clearance events
• Online auctions ending at odd hours (late night/early morning)

Selling Comics Guide

Maximize your returns when selling comics with these strategies:

Preparation is Key

• Clean comics gently: Use soft eraser on non-glossy covers, never water
• Take quality photos: Multiple angles in good lighting
• Be honest about condition: Note every flaw to avoid returns
• Research current values: Prices fluctuate daily for hot books
• Consider grading: For key issues, grading can double value

Where to Sell

• eBay: Best for high-value singles, worldwide audience
• Local comic shops: Quick cash but lower prices (50-70% of value)
• Conventions: Good for bulk sales and trading up
• Facebook Groups: No fees, but limited to members
• Instagram/Twitter: Build a following and sell directly

Pricing Strategy

• Start with 10-15% above target: Allows room for negotiation
• Consider "Buy It Now" with Best Offer: Captures both impulse buyers and negotiators
• Free shipping increases sales: Build it into your price
• Seasonal pricing: Some genres sell better at certain times (horror in October)
• Competitive pricing: Check what similar graded/similar condition books sold for

Comic Convention Guide

Make the most of comic conventions with these do's and don'ts:

Do's at Conventions

• Do bring cash: Many vendors offer cash discounts (5-10%)
• Do wear comfortable shoes: You'll be walking for hours
• Do bring a backpack: With water, snacks, and comic bags/boards
• Do make a want list: With prices you're willing to pay
• Do arrive early: For limited exclusives and best selection
• Do be respectful to creators: They're people too
• Do check the whole floor first: Before making major purchases

Don'ts at Conventions

• Don't bring your entire collection to get signed without checking creator policies
• Don't be afraid to walk away: If the price isn't right
• Don't block aisles: Step to the side to examine comics or chat
• Don't haggle aggressively: Especially on already discounted items
• Don't forget to eat and hydrate: Convention centres are dehydrating
• Don't wait until Sunday for everything - popular items sell fast
• Don't be that person who talks through panels or signings

Essential Convention Gear

• Comic short box on wheels: For purchases
• LED flashlight: For inspecting comics in dim dealer areas
• Magnifying glass: For checking restoration or small flaws
• Want list with maximum prices: Printed or on your phone
• Snacks and water bottle: Convention food is expensive
• Hand sanitizer: You'll handle a lot of comics