To grade or NOT to grade? That is the question.

[DredJAw]

So I am in the process of making my wantlist. It is primarily going to consist of 1st appearances, with a sprinkle of variants, and key issues (i.e. deaths, new costumes/teams, etc.).

So the question that has been running through my brain for weeks is: Do I look for graded copies of these? Or not graded? I am having a real tough time deciding. I would like to keep my collection uniform (as in, all either graded or raw, not mixed).


Graded Pros:

- Easier to assess condition and subsequently a value (esp. for online deals)
- Keeps them in great condition
- Nice to store/showcase


Graded Cons:

- Generally more expensive
- Can not open/read the comic. And isn't that what comics are all about?
- Bulkier/more storage room/space required


I should also ask, is there something other than graded (and not just a typical bag and board) that I can keep the comics in to keep them sharp while enhancing their appeal? Similar to a one-touch instead of a topload in the card world. Anything 'upscale' like that?

Please feel free to add some more pros/cons that I have not considered yet.

Interested in your thoughts.

 

[newfiecomicguy1]

Comics are for reading, I don't collect slabbed books. The only exception is variant covers and CGC signature series books as they have to be slabbed. IMO the only other exception is if you buy an expensive vintage book for investment purposes, those need to be slabbed to protect your investment. I have bought 3-4 cgc books and have cracked all of them out of the cases.

There are thick Mylars that look similar to the cgc cases but can be opened when ever you want to look at or read your book. There are a few different types available including framed ones for hanging on walls to display the books.


I guess it will come down to what you like. Comics for me is about reading and enjoying the artwork and I can't do that through a slab of plastic.

 

[weasel-king]

I agree--only get slabbed comics if you are investing. Worst case, you can get some reader copies, though.

 

[DredJAw]

There are thick Mylars that look similar to the cgc cases but can be opened when ever you want to look at or read your book. There are a few different types available including framed ones for hanging on walls to display the books.

Few questions:

a) Are they acid free?
b) Can they fit various sized comics? (i.e. golden age vs. new age - are cut slightly differently)
c) Price per mylar?
d) Can you put a comic bag over them? (similar to a team bag over a 1-touch for example).

 

[newfiecomicguy1]

Few questions:

a) Are they acid free? Yes (to the best of my Knowledge)
b) Can they fit various sized comics? (i.e. golden age vs. new age - are cut slightly differently) YES (I think you can buy different sizes like you can comic bags)
c) Price per mylar? Depends on the ones you buy but they are not cheap. Check ebay for good prices.
d) Can you put a comic bag over them? (similar to a team bag over a 1-touch for example). Regular bag no but you can get specially designed bags that are designed to fit them or you can use a magazine bag

 

[DredJAw]

K, these mylars look perfect for what I am trying to do. I am going to magazine bag em also, and put labels on the back with the writer/artist/note (i.e. death of..., 1st app. of...)

Now I just have to make my wantlist. Probably do it over the weekend and post it up here. I need your sources for this Scotty! lol

 

[newfiecomicguy1]

Not a problem. Not sure if you own an Overstreet comic guide but they are fantastic. They have great articles and advice on collecting plus they have all kind os list including a complete 1st app list for all characters. It really is a valuable tool for all collectors.

Another cool thing to do (esp the vintage key books) is to do a page on your site with a small write ups on each book after you have read them. Put key details as well as any minor stuff that you noticed, liked or disliked about the book. Its always cool for other collectors to read your opinon on books and its a quick ref guide for yourself.