Captain America Epic Collection: The Lazarus Conspiracy

Artist Mike Zeck makes his Captain America debut!

Captain America has never faced a threat more ironic than an animated statue of Honest Abe at the Lincoln Memorial! Who is Animus, the man behind it all — and what is his grand plan? This volume features legendary artist Mike Zeck’s first Captain America story in a team-up with the Avengers, followed by a shocking battle with a legion of Red Skulls that strips Cap of his Super-Soldier powers! Then comes an unforgettable crossover with the Hulk as the Falcon finds himself trapped on Alcatraz. And after the iconic team-up of Falcon and Captain America draws to a close, Cap confronts the National Front hate group head-on. Plus: thrilling team-ups with Nick Fury, the Incredible Hulk, Sharon Carter, Daredevil and — in one of his earliest appearances — the Punisher! And the first-ever Falcon solo story.

COLLECTING: Captain America (1968) #222-246, Incredible Hulk (1968) #232, Marvel Premiere (1972) #49

Written by Roger McKenzie, Peter B. Gillis & Steve Gerber with Roger Stern, Mark Evanier, Mike Barr, Steven Grant, Alan Kupperberg, Jim Shooter, David Michelinie, Michael Fleisher, Chris Claremont & Paul Kupperberg
Penciled by Sal Buscema with Don Perlin, Fred Kida, Mike Zeck, Frank Springer, Rich Buckler, Carmine Infantino & Jerry Bingham

Standard and Primary covers are widely available through general retailers. They often have higher print runs and can be cheaper, especially during sales.

In contrast, Direct Market (DM) and variant covers are primarily sold in comic shops. DM editions tend to have more limited availability and may be more valuable to collectors.

The main differences lie in artwork style, availability, price, and collector appeal. Ultimately, the choice between standard and variant covers depends on personal preference, budget, and individual collecting goals.

Comic book enthusiasts have various formats to choose from when collecting their favorite stories.
Here's a brief overview of the main types:

Omnibus

• Large, hardcover collections
• Usually contain complete runs or extensive story arcs
• Typically 800-1000+ pages
• Higher price point, often €100-€150

Oversized Hardcover (OHC)

• Similar dimensions to omnibus, but thinner
• Collect shorter runs or story arcs
• Usually 300-600 pages
• Priced between €30-€50

Hardcover (HC)

• Standard-sized hardcover books
• Collect 6-12 issues typically
• Similar dimensions to single issues, but with a hard cover
• Priced around €25-€35

Trade Paperback (TP)

• Softcover collections
• Standard comic book size
• Usually collect 4-6 issues
• Most affordable option, typically €15-€25

Other Formats

• Absolute Editions: Oversized, deluxe hardcovers (mainly DC Comics)
• Compendiums: Massive paperback collections
• Graphic Novels (OGN/GN): Original stories not previously released as single issues

The choice between these formats often depends on personal preference, budget, and collecting goals. Omnibus and OHC editions offer larger artwork and more content but at a higher price, while TPs provide a more affordable way to collect complete story arcs