The collector should always stay informed about new trends developing in this fast-moving market. Since the market fluctuates greatly, and there is a vast array of comics to choose from, it’s recommended first and foremost that you collect what you enjoy reading or the cover artwork you like; that way, despite any value changes, you will always maintain a sense of personal satisfaction with your collection.

New comic books are available in many different kinds of stores, from the local comic shop to book and music stores, toy stores, and even supermarkets and convenience stores. Local flea markets and, of course, comic book conventions in your area are also excellent sources for new and old comic books.

Most collectors begin by buying new issues in Mint condition directly from their local comics stores. Subscription services are often available from such shops or any of the several mail-order services. The trick is to locate a store that carries a complete line of comics.

Before you buy any comic to add to your collection, you should carefully inspect its condition. Unlike stamps and coins, defective comics are generally not highly prized. The cover should be properly cut and printed. Remember that every blemish or sign of wear depreciates the beauty and value of your comics.

The serious collector may buy extra copies of popular titles. He may trade these multiples for items unavailable locally (for example, foreign comics), or he may store the multiples for resale at some future date. Such speculation is, of course, a gamble.

Today’s comic books offer a wide variety of subjects, art styles and writers to satisfy even the most discriminating fan. Whether it’s the latest new hot title or company, or one of many popular titles that have been around for a long time, the comic book fan has a broad range from which to pick. Print runs of many popular titles have dropped over the past few years, creating the possibility of a true rarity occurring when demand outstrips supply. Less “gimmicky” covers are seen these days, but occasionally an eye-catching specialty cover will appear, such as the Superman new costume issue (#123) that glows in the dark. Some cover variants continue to appear as well.

• Collecting comics by artist: Many collectors enjoy favorite artists and follow their work from issue to issue, title to title, company to company. In recent years, some artists have achieved “star” status.
• Collecting comics by company: Some collectors become loyal to a particular company and only collect its titles. It’s another way to specialize and collect in a market that expands faster than your pocket book.
• Collecting comic #1 issues: For decades, comic enthusiasts have collected first (#1) issues. This is yet another way to control spending and build an interesting collection for the future. #1 issues have everything going for them–some introduce new characters, while others are under-printed, creating a rarity factor. #1 issues cross many subjects as well as companies, and make for an intriguing collection.

Putting a quality collection of old comics together takes a lot of time, effort and money. Many old comics are not easy to find. Persistence and luck play a big part in acquiring needed issues. Most quality collections are put together over a long period.

A-Z list of comic books.

Astro City
Hulk (The Incredible)
Iron Man Avengers
(The) JLA - Justice League Batman
JSA Blade Moon Knight 
Captain America
Ms. Marvel 
Civil War
Nightwing
Daredevil Punisher
DMZ
Spawn
Eternals
Spider-Man
Fables
Superman
Fantastic Four
Teen Titans
Flash (The)
The Walking Dead
Ghost Rider 
Wolverine
Green Lantern
Wonder Woman
Heroes For Hire 
X-Men (The)

Tags: Comic Book Collecting