Selling Inherited Comic Books: What You Need to Know
Losing a loved one is never easy, and dealing with their belongings can be overwhelming. If you've inherited a comic book collection, this guide will help you navigate the process with respect and get fair value.
A Note on Sentiment
Comics often represent decades of someone's passion and memories. Take your time with this process. There's no rush, and it's okay to feel conflicted about selling. Many buyers, including us, understand the emotional weight of these decisions.
Step 1: Don't Throw Anything Away
This is the most important advice we can give. Before you assume something is worthless:
- Even damaged, incomplete comics can have value
- Comic-related items (posters, toys, magazines) may be collectible
- Original art, sketches, or signed items could be extremely valuable
- Storage boxes themselves might contain surprises
Step 2: Document Everything
Before moving or selling anything, create a record:
Photos
Take photos of boxes, stacks, and individual notable issues. This helps with insurance and getting quotes.
Inventory List
Even a rough count helps: "Approximately 500 comics, mostly Marvel 1980s-1990s"
Step 3: Understand Your Options
Option A: Sell to a Professional Buyer
Best for: Large collections, estates that need to be settled quickly, people who don't want to deal with individual sales.
A professional buyer (like us) will:
- Come to the location
- Assess everything on-site
- Make an offer for the entire collection
- Handle all the heavy lifting
- Pay immediately
Option B: Consignment
Best for: High-value individual items when you have time to wait for maximum returns.
Auction houses like Heritage or ComicLink can sell valuable keys for top dollar, but take 10-20% commission and may take months to sell.
Option C: DIY Sales
Best for: Those with time, knowledge, and patience to list items individually on eBay or at conventions.
Step 4: Working with Estate Attorneys
If you're an executor handling an estate:
- Get a written appraisal for estate tax purposes if the collection may be valuable
- Document all sales with receipts for probate records
- Consult the attorney before distributing or selling if there are multiple heirs
- Keep records for 7 years minimum for tax purposes
What Makes Estate Collections Special
Long-held collections often contain treasures that newer collectors don't have:
Pre-1980 Comics
Silver and Bronze Age issues that are increasingly rare
Complete Runs
Full series that collectors spent years assembling
Original Storage
Comics stored properly for decades, often in great condition
We Specialize in Estate Collections
We work with families and estate executors throughout NY, NJ, PA, and MD. We're respectful, thorough, and can work directly with attorneys when needed. Free, no-obligation consultations.
Get Estate Consultation