May 27 2009
Buying Graded Comics, What you Need to Know
Every comic enthusiast’s dream is to obtain a perfect copy of his favorite comic. The search is quite easy nowadays, with the proliferation of websites which cater to the comic industry. From auctions to collectible buy and sell sites, it takes only a few clicks to get that sough-after comic. Yet before you spend hundreds of dollars on that perfect-looking comic, how do you know that the comic you are about to purchase is authentic? How do you know what condition it is in? If before, words like “poor,” “okay,” and “mint” seem to be enough in evaluating comics, now they simply aren’t enough.
Why buy graded comics? Is there really a need for this grading? Why not just buy a simple comic that is being sold to you by a friend or some stranger? There is a “grading process” in comics, and it involves a more complicated system that the old way of judging on a personal basis, which tends to be very biased.
First, a Restoration Detection Expert examines the book and passes it on to a pre-grader. They are placed inside barcoded mylar sleeves to guarantee that graders will not know who the owners are, and will be impartial.
The graders begin by counting the pages and examining each for any peculiarities or flaws, like tears or creases. He then adds his notes, and assigns his grading opinion. It is then passed on to the next grader, who will not be able to see the previous grader’s grade and notes until he himself assigns and writes his. This continues until it reaches the Grading Finalizer. After making one final restoration check, he assigns his own grade. If all the grades are close to each other, then it is sent to the Encapsulation Department for sealing.
With this process in mind, you can see why it is so much better to buy graded comics. You are assured of an authentic comic, and you can also be sure that the condition they say it is in is as described. Buying graded comics has never been easier and safer. If you know the process, you can forget your worries and focus on finding that comic you have long been looking for!