5 Myths About Comic Book Collecting

Comic book collecting is a longstanding hobby that has endured many stereotypes. Here are some points to dispel certain myths about the hobby.

1. I have to be a nerd. Not so! Comic book collectors show up in all walks of life. Business Owners. State Representatives. Movie Stars. Even females. Also - most comic book collectors do not consider themselves nerds and with many, it's just a hobby, not a way of life. Some look at collecting comic books as entertainment, some look at it as an investment. There are many types of people who start comic book collections. The old comic book collector stereotypes are disappearing.

2. I have to go into a comic book shop. You should always support your local comic book shop. Many shops are so well organized and clean you would think you were in an Apple store. And then some are right out of your worst nightmares. Many store owners are extremely helpful and will answer all of your questions. But then there are some stores with kids who sit behind the counter and read their comic books. Every store is a different experience but a comic book collector should never be afraid to visit a local shop and explore the inventory. However, there are many places where you can buy comic books online. They offer old and new comics that can be purchased and shipped to you.

3. I have to have a lot of storage. As with anything, you can get carried away. But think about your goals. Depending on what type of comic books you want to collect, your collection may be relatively small. Do only want to collect the 90s Sandman series by Neil Gaiman? That will only run you 75 issues (and maybe a few one-shots), which will fill one short box. But if you want every appearance Spider-Man has ever made, you might want to clean out your garage for extra space.

4. I have to spend a lot to get started. It depends on how much you want to tackle. You might want to start collecting currently published books, where the comic book value is usually only cover price or a little more. Even the bulk of books from the 90s, 80s and even 70s can be acquired for low comic prices. Key issues - single books that have had special impact on the comics medium and industry - are more expensive. Also, the older the comic books, the higher the price. Study the comics price guides, peruse online or shop in your local comic shop to find the collectible comics prices right for you.

5. I have to go to comic book conventions. First off, comic book conventions can be great experiences for comic book fans. They have the chance not only to shop, but to meet some of their favorite comic book creators. If your comic book collecting intentions are to buy and store only, then get your comic books in the mail and bag them. But if you would really like to experience comic book culture, meet some great people and even get some of your comic book collection autographed, you should give the closest comic book convention a try.

Enjoy the hobby of comic book collecting and do not be afraid to experience all the opportunities this fascinating and entertaining medium has to offer.