Expert: Brian G. Philbin - 4/8/2008

Question
Hi Brian, I recently purchased a collection of about 500+ comics at a n auction. Some old and some newer. What I am finding is that someone has written on alot of the covers with what seems to be a grease pencil. Some red and some black. I would like to know if you have any experience with getting it off without damaging the cover or devaluing the comic. I do not have knowledge of comic book collecting as this is my first purchase. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated and most helpful. The ones I am most concerned about are from the late 60's. Thanks so much, Mary

Answer
Hi, Mary - thanks for your question.
The answer is not a simple one.  There are a few factors to consider.

1. How large is the grease pencil mark?
2. What is the mark signifying?  Is it an arrival date?
3. Does the mark obfuscate the art of the cover itself?

Then, you need to consider some other things, as well.  The grease pencil mark is considered a defect, but it is only one part of the comic's overall condition grade.  Two things to keep in mind:

1.  A single defect only affects the overall grade of the comic book very slightly, if it is not a large one.
2.  Removing the grease pencil would require a chemical, such as Naphtha, to remove it - which wouldn't necessarily remove any stain underneath - and is considered "altering" the book, which is not as desirable as having the book in an "unmodified" or "unrestored" condition.

If you're looking to manage their condition at the highest level, it is always considered best to retain everything in as original a condition as possible - unless we're talking about a key book, like Superman #1, in which case it can sometimes (and I stress, *sometimes*) be advantageous to restore it.

If this is a small mark, not across the whole of the cover and just a number or two, there have been many collections sold in such condition that are notable specifically for the notations and have sold for multiple times the value indicated in the Overstreet Price Guide (which is the Bible of the comics collecting industry - you can find it at your local library or book store).

That said, it is a very personal decision to remove a mark from a comic and it is your own decision to make as to whether it makes the book more attractive to you or, possibly, a buyer.

If you'd like further information about comics and grading, please visit this site:

http://www.metropolisplus.com/COMICSBASICS.htm

If you have further questions, please feel free to ask a follow up question.

Hope this has been helpful!

Pax, harmonia,

Brian G. Philbin