104: Comics 101
Comic book ages, keys and variants, CGC and CBCS grading, and storage basics.
Full lessons are coming as our comics section grows. Here's the outline and the basics.
Lesson 104.1: The ages
Collectors group comics into broad eras, usually called the Golden, Silver, Bronze and Modern ages. Exact dividing lines vary by source, so treat them as a guide, not a rule.
Lesson 104.2: Keys and variants
A "key" is an issue collectors care about especially, such as a character's first appearance. A "variant" is an alternate cover for the same issue. Know which one you have before you compare prices.
Lesson 104.3: CGC and CBCS grading
CGC and CBCS grade comics on a 10-point scale and seal them in holders. Like coins, every graded comic has a cert number you can check on the grader's own website. Type the address yourself.
Lesson 104.4: Storage
Keep comics upright in archival, acid-neutral bags and boards, in a cool, dry, dark place. Avoid attics, basements and anywhere that floods. See Hurricane-season checklist.
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Add a comic with its title, issue number, cover variant and (if graded) cert number.
Educational only. This is not insurance, tax, legal or investment advice. Collectibles can lose value; past prices don't predict future ones.
Sources
General guidance; no outside figures are cited in this course outline. Related: Choice Insights: How comic book grading works.
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Last reviewed 2026-10-28 · Draft