Hobby Highlight ~ March 2017 (ARCHIVE)

COMIC BOOKS

From the golden age of comics to the modern day collectors have stuck by this artistic, and story inclusive hobby regardless of it's ups and downs. Starting at a lowly 5 cents a copy back in your great grandfather's days to the costly $5 printings of today comic books have evolved in both offerings, and value. The birth of indies, the introduction of TPB (Trade Paperbacks) / HC (Hard Covers), and cover art variations being of the more notable changes throughout the history of the collectible. Some of us like the more niche indies while faithful fans of the past stick by heroes, and heroines who have withstood the test of time. Hyped up by special story driven events including the death of characters, and sometimes the rebirth of the same it's hard not to get caught up in the collecting frenzy that is as varied as it is in the world of comic books. Some of us hoard our collections for future value while others love to read through the pages within, and enjoy the art that makes each story pop.

When collecting comic books it is good to know a few things. First, and foremost the condition of the comic book matters, especially if you aim to resale your copy later on. Collector's know that keeping them bagged, boarded, and in mint condition is top priority in this regard. It is best these days to keep first issues sealed while enjoying the story, and art through TPBs that collect entire plots for a fraction of the price it would take to buy each individual issue. Other things to note include the cover variations which in themselves are not created equal. Some covers of the same issue will have more favorable art that will in turn have more collector's value. Keeping up with what's worth what can be done through comic book price guides which take in account condition, cover, and issue number. Some collectors are also lucky enough to get their comic books signed which in itself increases the comic book's worth, especially if the artist is famous. Recently comic publishers such as MARVEL, and DC have also started producing blank covers with which collectors can have artists at conventions draw art on, and sign for even more added value. Needless to say comic book creators these days are constantly staying on top of trends, and innovation. Sometimes to their benefit, and sometimes to their detriment.

As a collector I, myself enjoy the more mature comic books. I often times by lewd nude editions that are more costly than the standard editions. Just know that, that type of thing does exist, and that parents need to realize that comic books also bare ratings for such reasons. Most comic, and hobby shops selling nude or lewd issues will have the decency to cover up the art so that browsing children will not be exposed to it. As far as keeping the kids from the more mature items though that responsibility lies mostly with the parents, and as far as I know it isn't as enforced as video games are. It's one of those things where the argument of "What is art?" holds sway.

If you have the convenience of a  nearby comic book, or hobby shop that sells comics I strongly suggest you support them. Simply stop in from time to time and maybe buy a bargain bin comic or two if nothing new. It'll help them stay in business, and keep the hobby viable for future generations of collectors. I personally feel comic book collecting is one of those hobbies that is good to share, and pass down to your own children. It's fun, and does hold future value as a collection based hobby. Just be sure to pass along what knowledge you have, and give the young ones the opportunity to discover their own favorite heroes, heroines, and villains as well.

I think that about wraps this month's hobby highlight up. I hope you enjoyed it, and that it inspires you to start collecting too! Until next time be sure to keep it Awesome!

Your Last Samurai,
Brad Carver (OtakuDante)