Should I buy Comics for Investment Purposes?
The big question as of late from non-comic junkies is should I get into comics as a tool for investment? My first response to this question is “no”. Please understand that I say this from a purely selfish and sentimental place…the realm of comics belong to only those who truly love comic books. Whether for the art, the story or the characters themselves…what ever. I don’t want a bunch of “posers” hanging out at the shows and shops taking up space trying to snag some nice books….only to try and flip them for profit at a later date. Okay, did I just say all that? I suppose my fondness for comic books can get me all riled up. The truth of the matter is, with a bit of research, turning a profit with comic books is very possible for the non-collector.
Which Comic Books to Buy
If you have access to ridiculous amounts of cash, buying key golden and silver age comic books, especially at below guide, is a no-brainer. Silver age comic book gems such as Amazing Fantasy 15, Fantastic Four 1 and the Incredible Hulk 1 have increased in value consistently over the years, and will likely continue to do so. But remember, condition is all important. Yes, you will pay a lot more for high grade books, but the better the return on your investment will be in the long run. A near mint copy of Amazing Fantasy 15, for example, was valued at $1100 in 1984, according to Overstreet’s Update issue 3. Today, the same book guides for well over $120000.
Are There Any Guarantees Which Comic Books will Increase in Value?
Of course not. But with the current film trend being everything comic book, you can usually bank on seeing an increase in the value of key comic books (first appearances and significant plot lines) when film projects are first announced, and then once again a few weeks before the film is released. Tales of Suspense 39 is a great example of how a comic book can increase in value because of a Hollywood adaptation.
Paramount’s 2008 feature film, Iron Man, starring Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark, catapulted this 2nd tier Marvel comic book super hero to the forefront, even surpassing Spider-Man as the companies flagship character. As a result, Tales of Suspense 39, Iron Man’s first appearance, jumped in value significantly. Read my blog on how Hollywood influences comic book values by clicking here.
For more insight into comic books as investment, watch the following CNN expose on the subject.
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