Should You Sell Your First Printing of Walking Dead Comic Books Now or Wait?

Introduction

For collectors and fans of the graphic novel The Walking Dead (TWD), owning the first issue of the series holds a significant appeal. The economic decision on whether to sell or wait to sell the first-printing of issues 7, 8, and 9 can be complex. This article aims to provide insights based on the rarity, market trends, and potential sales strategies.

Market Analysis

The first issue of TWD, number 1, has been steady at around $2500 in the best condition. However, more recent offerings of the first printings of issues 7, 8, and 9 have not fared as well in terms of valuation, with even a "beat up copy" selling for just $300 on eBay. This stark difference in price points reflects the availability and rarity of these particular issues.

Supply and Demand

When the comic was initially released, it faced supply constraints. Globe News, ComicConnect, and other major comic sellers received initial orders of only four to five copies, followed by no extra reorders. This shortage significantly impacted the market value of these issues. Even though there are no additional printings like there were for TWD, the scarcity of these issues can still drive demand, especially among collectors focused on complete runs.

Strategies for Selling

Given the rarity and condition of the comics, there are strategic approaches you can take to maximize your return.

Sell Individually

báning these comics individually is a straightforward option. However, it might result in a longer selling period. In the comics market, prices tend to fluctuate, and every seller hopes for a better deal than the previous one. Therefore, while this approach can be slow, it can also eventually lead to a higher sale price if the market picks up.

Consignment at Specialty Stores

For higher condition issues, selling through specialty comic shops or consignment stores can be an effective strategy. Stores like the one in Chicago that provides space for consignment books in glass cases can offer a good platform. These stores often display issues that are in high demand, such as those featuring significant story arcs or highly sought-after characters, like The Governor in issues 7, 8, and 9. The store retains a portion of the sale, which can be a small price to pay for quick access to a broader market.

Group Sales and Completeness

Selling the three issues as a set can attract buyers looking for complete series runs. For example, if you have copies of issues 7, 8, and 9, you might find that displaying them in a store can generate interest, where more than one buyer might be willing to purchase them simultaneously. This strategy not only ensures a quicker sale but also potentially a better total amount compared to selling the individual issues at different times.

Projections and Market Trends

The historical trend shows that if you wait to sell, the prices are unlikely to go up. This is particularly true for issues with lower numbers of existing copies. For instance, Action #1 has a high value due to its scarcity and limited print run. Unlike TWD comics, which have multiple printings and supplementary formats like hardcovers and compendiums, the The Walking Dead issues are rarer.

The rarity of The Walking Dead issues 7, 8, and 9 is a double-edged sword. On one hand, this scarcity ensures that the prices do not decline significantly if sold now. On the other hand, waiting may not be the best strategy given the high likelihood of the market continuing to be volatile. Therefore, it is advisable to sell them now, especially if they are in mint or very good condition.

Conclusion

The decision to sell now or wait for a more favorable market is a personal one. However, based on the current market analysis and supply and demand dynamics, it might be more prudent to sell now. Specialty stores can provide a reliable platform for quick sales, and if you have a complete set, the group sales strategy can also be a viable option. Regardless of the approach, maintaining the condition of your comics is crucial, as it directly impacts their market value and the potential for higher sales.

Keywords: Walking Dead comic, first printing, comic collecting