JACK KIRBY COLLECTOR #88

Since TJKC is FOR Kirby collectors, we're doing a whole issue ABOUT collectors! In #88, we'll explore people's quest for and purchase of Jack's original artwork, and what it means to them to own not just of the art, but the Kirby comics themselves. Collectors share personal stories about meeting Jack and never-published photos from their encounters, choice fan-art and fan-fiction pertaining to Jack, and some of the coolest memorabilia and Kirby art you've ever laid eyes on! Plus an interview with Marv Wolfman about his (and friend Len Wein's) interactions with Jack first as fans, and then as pros. Plus: a gallery of Kirby pencil art, our regular columnists, and Mark Evanier moderating the 2023 Kirby Tribute Panel from WonderCon (with Marv Wolfman, Steve Leialoha, Paul S. Levine, and John Morrow). It features a deluxe wrap-around Kirby cover with fold-out back cover flap, inked by Mike Royer! Edited by John Morrow.

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