Completing a comic collection is a moment of triumph, no doubt. It's the pinnacle of a journey filled with rollercoaster rides of highs and lows, anticipation, discovery, packed with moments of pure joy and sheer effing frustration.
Remember that time you found a rare issue tucked away in a comic shop? Or the time you outbid someone in a heated online auction, your heart racing as the timer ticked down to zero? Those are the moments we live for as collectors. Each comic is a piece of a larger puzzle and finding that final piece is incredibly satisfying.
But what happens once the puzzle is complete? For some, it's about jumping straight into the next collection. Others might take a breather, savoring the accomplishment before deciding on the next collecting adventure.
The thrill of the hunt is a significant part of the collecting experience. When the chase is over, it can feel a bit...anticlimactic. There's a certain void that comes with completion. You might find yourself staring at your collection, thinking, "Is this it?"
Some collectors channel this energy into related memorabilia—action figures, posters, or even rare artwork from their favorite series. Others might become more involved in the comic book community, sharing their knowledge and passion with newcomers.
But there’s a deeper, often overlooked aspect to consider: the legacy of your collection. This brings us to the heart of the matter: what happens to your collection after you die?
It's not the cheeriest of topics, but it's an important one. Many of us invest significant time, money, and emotional energy into our collections. They become a part of our identity. So, what happens when we're no longer around to care for them?
Have you thought about having an "Execute Order 66" for your collection in your will? Do you plan to pass your prized comics down to family, a spouse, or kids, and let them decide what to do? But what if your loved ones aren’t into comics and you know they’ll just cash in on all your hard work? Some might say, “I’m already dead, so what does it matter?” But for many of us, our collections are more than just items—they’re a legacy.
If you haven’t thought about the future of your collection, now might be the time. Here are a few practical steps to consider:
1. Document Your Collection: Keep detailed records of what you have, including the condition and estimated value of each item. This can be a simple spreadsheet or a more sophisticated database.
2. Legal Considerations: Make sure your collection is included in your will. This ensures that your wishes regarding the collection are legally documented.
3. Choose a Trusted Curator or Beneficiary: Consider who will truly appreciate and take care of your collection. It might be a family member, a close friend, a fellow collector, or even a trusted third party outside your immediate circle.
4. Consider Selling: Some collectors choose to sell their collections while they’re still around, allowing them to personally manage the process and enjoy the financial benefits during their lifetime.
5. Donations: Donating your collection to a library, museum, or comic book archive can be a way to ensure it’s preserved and enjoyed by future generations.
For some, the joy of collecting is all about the journey. Once they're gone, they don’t mind what happens to their comics. For others, ensuring their collection is curated and appreciated by future generations is paramount.
I brought the subject up to fellow collectors and found a range of opinions. Some couldn't care less what happens after they’re gone. Others had detailed plans, complete with legal documentation and chosen heirs.
What are your thoughts? Have you given any consideration to the future of your collection? Do you have plans in place, or are you winging it? Does the fate of your collection matter to you? Why or why not? Drop your thoughts in the comments below.
In the end, whether you’re meticulously planning for your collection’s future or living in the moment, there’s no right or wrong answer. The world of comic collecting is as diverse as the collectors themselves.
Until next time, Happy Collecting!