Marvel Fanfare Omnibus Vol. 3

Stories and art by the greatest talents in the comics industry!

The third and final Marvel Fanfare Omnibus completes the definitive reprinting of the 1980s’ premier comics anthology! Showcasing top-tier creative talent and a diverse lineup of characters, Fanfare delivered a cutting-edge comics experience like no other. Hot off the success of Watchmen, artist Dave Gibbons teams with Walter Simonson for a Doctor Strange mystic masterpiece; Steve Gerber pens a four-part Shanna epic brimming with “good girl” charm; John Buscema makes a triumphant return to the Silver Surfer; and Mike Mignola crafts a poignant Namor tale. Plus: an all-pinup issue bursting with iconic artwork from Arthur Adams, Jim Lee, Barry Windsor-Smith and more. And that’s just for starters!

COLLECTING: Marvel Fanfare (1982) #41-60

Written by Bill Mantlo, Steve Gerber, Steven Grant, Steve Englehart, Walter Simonson, Ken Steacy, Mike W. Barr, Jo Duffy, Terry Austin, Carl Potts & More

Penciled by Dave Gibbons, Michael Golden, John Buscema, Ken Steacy, Bret Blevins, Alan Weiss, Richard Howell, Mike Mignola, Gene Colan, Sandy Plunkett, Paul Smith, Tony Dezuniga & More

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