Beginner Guide to Variants

VARIANTS THE BASICS

Comics frequently have several different covers called Variants. The type or Variant can significantly impact the cost and transform it into a desired collectible comic

Trade Dress: This version usually includes the title, logos, and other text on the cover.

Virgin: This type typically features only the artwork with no text, making it cleaner and more visually striking.

For Modern age comics; Virgin covers are typically more desirable and expensive due to their lower print runs compared to trade dress versions.

NEWSSTAND VARIANTS

Its worth discussing Newsstand Variants, at the start as well. from around 1979 to 2013 comics could be scanned at a newsstand or corner shop for sale; or ordered and delivered like to day which we call Direct Editions. The type of comic is print on the comic:

In 1979, over 90% for comics were sold as Newsstand , by 2013 only 1% of comics where sold at a Newsstand. Therefore, Newsstand comics closer to 2013 are rarer.

Also, comics in newsstands were often handled a lot so finding a near mint one will be hard.

As such Newsstand Variants are often more expensive and desired by collectors.

INCENTIVE & RATIO VARIANTS

These comics are targeted at comic book sellers. For instance, if a seller orders 100 comics, they qualify for a special 1-in-100 print edition, making the comic rare and collectible.

The seller acquires this special print at a low cost, but due to its rarity, it can be sold for much more. The higher the order requirement, the rarer the comic, for example, a 1:25 variant requires the seller to order 25 comics to receive one special print, with further tiers at 1:50, 1:100,1:5000 etc. For collectors, lower print runs for desirable comics is attractive, although cost more to purchase.

When purchasing incentive variants, you are investing in an expensive comic that carries a higher risk of depreciating value. The most effective strategy is to pre-order or monitor which collections are trending and wait for their peak value to decline and then buy; if not done as a pre-order.

CONVENTION VARIANTS  

These variants are created exclusively for conventions, making them rare due to their limited numbers. It's best to purchase these at the convention itself or shortly thereafter, when many are still available, as they soon become scarce they will appreciate. However, be cautious, as more expensive comics carry a higher risk.

STORE VARIANT

When a retailer purchases a large quantity of comics, they are eligible to order special variants designated for their store, often with the store's name printed on the back cover. If you're interested in acquiring a specific variant cover, consider buying these during sales or using discount codes.

RETAIL EXCLUSIVE VARIANTS

Retailer Exclusive Variants, are bespoke covers made specifically for a store in limited quantities often the shop name is on the back cover e.g. 616 comics. It's advisable to purchase these directly from the store or pre-order when possible to secure your copy. Multiple stores may have the same variant cover; sometime they are unique, for example Trinity Comic Retail Exclusives are often exclusive to them

FIRST, SECOND & OTHER PRINTS 

In the realm of comic book collecting, the designations "first print," "second print," and "subsequent prints" denote various production cycles for a particular comic book issue.

These terms hold significant importance for collectors and enthusiasts due to the variations in value and desirability that accompany each printing.

First Print: This refers to the original batch of comics produced for an issue's initial release. Publishers estimate the demand and print accordingly. First-print editions are particularly prized by collectors if the comic gains notoriety or proves influential, as they represent the original distribution.

The value of first prints often exceeds that of any later printings, especially for comics that go on to become iconic or introduce beloved characters. However on occasion, later prints with lower print runs can have more value although rare.

Second Print: If the first printing sells out and there remains a demand for the issue, publishers may opt for a second print run. Although generally less valuable than first prints, second prints can still be sought after, particularly when they feature unique artistic elements or if the first print is extremely rare.

Subsequent Prints: Prints that run beyond the second—third, fourth, and so on—are considered subsequent prints. The collectability and value of these prints vary based on factors such as rarity, the presence of distinct cover art, and the comic's overall popularity and historical significance.

When buying comics, it is recommended to target first prints. Typically you can identify the print version as follows:

• The last number on the barcode.

• ·Dark Horse Comics, lists on the inside cover of the first page.

COVER VARIANT

Cover variants are alternate versions of comic book covers often labeled "A,B,C,D, etc". The aim is to offer different artwork while keeping the interior content the same.

Publishers use them to attract collectors, celebrate events, or highlight various artists' styles.

Variants can include unique designs, special materials (like foil or holographic covers), or themed editions. Some are widely available through "Open Order," while others are exclusive, such as retailer incentives or store-commissioned designs.

Cover Variants, can hold more value, based on their links to other comics e.g. a homage to Akira Absolute Batman #1 , or perhaps a popular artist designed on the cover.

LIMITED EDITIONS VARIANTS

Limited editions are Cover Variant with low print runs. e.g. 1000, 500, or lower. The lower the run the more valuable the comic. Typically these are limited edition are combined with Stored Exclusives or Convention Variants, making them highly collectible.

COMICS AND COUNTRY

Comics are published globally and as such, they appear in a variety of languages and feature different currencies on their covers. Typically, comics that display the US dollar symbol ("$") on the cover are considered the most valuable in the collectors' market.

However, there are exceptions to this general rule. For instance, comics printed in Canada might also hold significant value. It is advisable to verify the specific value of any non-US comic before making a purchase.

It's important to note that the lesser value of non-US comics does not mean they should be avoided. Many international comics offer unique artistic perspectives that can be valuable to collectors for reasons beyond monetary value.

SUMMARY

There are many other types of Variants, although these the most common you will come across.

There is no golden run regarding value; for example Ultimate Spider-Man #1, non-variant cover is more valuable than the cover variants. While Absolute Batman convention variant NYCC is the desired collector edition

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Author: David Edwards secret inked comics.