Things You'll Need:
- Comic book price guide
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Step 1
Use a current comic book price guide to determine the current market value of the specific comic books you want to find. This will help you evaluate the various opportunities you'll get to purchase the issues you seek. Price guide books are available at hobby shops and comic book retailers such as ComicsPriceGuide.com, HA.com and the Comic Book Collection Made Easy website (see Resources below). The "Overstreet Comic Book Price Guide" is considered by most to be the definitive version.
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Step 2
Look for local comic book conventions, collectibles swap meets and other large group activities of the like. Not only might you find a seller with the very issue you're looking for, but you can also use the opportunity to network with other comic book enthusiasts to build up your list of contacts. Check the COMICON website for a list of upcoming conventions around the country (see Resources below).
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Step 3
Talk to local comic book merchants, and ask if they have an issue of the comic you're looking for, or if they know someone who does. Hobby shop employees are plugged right into the local collectibles scene, and can be of great help to you in your quest to locate specific comic books. They might even agree to help you in your search, or hold that issue for you if one should happen to come their way.
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Step 4
Ask other collectors for help. There's often a "scratch my back and I'll scratch yours" mentality among collectibles enthusiasts. If a collector has his eye on a certain issue in your collection and agrees to help you find the comic book you're searching for in exchange for trading or selling the coveted comic, give the offer some consideration.
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Step 5
Bid online. Online auction sites like eBay and uBid are excellent resources for collectors looking for specific items (see Resources below). Check often, since the very issue you seek could turn up on a moment's notice.
