Starting an Anime Comics Collection

Anime, the Japanese word for "animation," refers to a type of Japanese comic strip. Traditionally hand drawn, these comics have recently capitalized on modern technology by regularly featuring computer-enhanced graphics. Anime takes many forms including:
  • comics
  • DVDs
  • Internet videos and comic strips
  • television shows
  • video games.
Comics are a popular medium for anime, and many anime fans collect them. Starting your own collection can be fun and, if you plan to re-sell them, profitable.

Where to Buy Anime Comics

Anime is big business in the United States where purchases bring in over 4 billion dollars each year. With such a strong following in the U.S., finding a place to purchase anime comics is easy. A few places to look are:
  • anime tradeshows
  • bookstores
  • comic book stores
  • online auction Web sites, such as eBay
  • specialty sellers found on the Internet.

Tips on How to Start a Collection

While some people start collecting anime comics for fun, others are serious collectors who eventually wish to sell prized anime comics for profit. Regardless on what you plan on doing with the anime comics, here are a few tips to help you figure out which comics you might enjoy and which comics will yield the most profit.
 
When building an anime collection:
  • Ask the professionals: Visit your local comic book store and quiz the salespeople on their recommendations. People who work at comic book stores are the pros, and they're most likely to be avid anime readers themselves. The store clerks may also be able to tell you which comic books have sold well and which have sold poorly.

  • Check the bestsellers lists: In local bookstores and online, you will be able to track down the current bestsellers, as well as the series or types of comics that are most appealing to collectors.

  • Consider collecting an entire series: Start by examining series that have already been completed, rather than investing in an unfinished series that could stop selling before the final issue is even made.

  • Read the reviews: Check one of many anime Web sites that offer reviews to find the titles most likely to yield favorable returns for your investment.

  • Rent comics: Some anime stores will rent the comics to you, which is a good way for you to test drive a new comics and series that you are considering adding to your collection.

The price of anime comics depends on several factors, including:

  • condition
  • how old it is
  • popularity of the issue or series.
The cost of new books can range from as little as $5 to over $30.

Caring for Anime Comics

Whether you plan on keeping or selling your anime comics, keeping them in tiptop shape is a good idea because it allows you to either enjoy them for years to come or to sell them for the highest price possible.
 
Care for your anime comic books as you would any other comic book. This means that the use of acid free bags and boards is a necessary first step when storing your anime comic books. The bags not only keep the comic books clean and dust free, but they will also help to protect your collectibles from common and unavoidable elements (including humidity, sunlight and temperature extremes) that can age your books.
 
The booming popularity of anime comics proves that comics aren't just for kids anymore. With the proper selection and care, anime comics can be a valuable and satisfying addition to any fan's collection.

Resources

Anime Nation (2008). Anime Nation. Retrieved April 4, 2008, from the Anime Nation Web site: http://www.animenation.com/.

Heritage Auction Galleries (1999-2008). Caring for your Comics. Retrieved April 7, 2008, from the Heritage Auction Galleries Web site: http://comics.ha.com/common/caring.php?src=comics.

Kim, Michael (1996). Japanese Animation (Anime) on the www. Retrieved April 7, 2008, from Michael Kim's Web site: http://alumni.imsa.edu/~leda/anime/.

Miakiddo82 (1999-2008). How to Start up a Anime/Manga Collection. Retrieved April 4, 2008, from the ehow Web site: http://www.ehow.com/how_2101318_start-up-animemanga-collection.html.