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Wizard Guide Comics Back Issues: A Collector's Dream
If you are a comic book fan, you probably have heard of Wizard, the magazine that was once the ultimate source of comic book information and entertainment. Wizard was not only a magazine about comics, but also a guide to comics, featuring a comprehensive price guide that helped collectors track the value of their comic books.
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But did you know that Wizard guide comics back issues are also valuable collectibles themselves? That's right, those old issues of Wizard that you may have stashed away in your attic or basement could be worth a lot more than you think. In this article, we will explore the history, legacy and collectibility of Wizard guide comics back issues, and show you how to find, buy and enjoy them.
The History of Wizard Magazine
Wizard magazine was launched in July 1991 by Gareb Shamus, a comic book fan who wanted to create a magazine that would cater to the growing interest in comic books. Wizard started as a guide to comics, featuring a price guide that listed the current market value of thousands of comic books, as well as comic book news, interviews, previews and reviews.
Wizard quickly became a hit among comic book fans, who loved its glossy paper, colorful printing and humorous tone. Wizard also supported new publishers like Valiant Comics and Image Comics, who were challenging the dominance of Marvel and DC Comics with their innovative and creator-owned titles. Wizard heavily promoted these new releases, giving them exposure and boosting their sales.
The Rise and Fall of Wizard Magazine
The Golden Age of Wizard Magazine
The 1990s were the golden age of Wizard magazine, as it embodied the comic speculator boom that swept the industry. Comic books were seen as valuable investments that could skyrocket in price overnight, and Wizard was the guide that helped collectors find the hottest and rarest comics. Wizard also featured exclusive offers, such as free mini-comics or variant covers, that increased the demand and value of its issues.
Wizard also expanded its scope beyond comics, covering other aspects of pop culture such as movies, TV shows, anime, toys and games. Wizard spawned several spin-off magazines, such as ToyFare, InQuest Gamer, Anime Insider and Toy Wishes, that focused on these topics. Wizard also hosted its own conventions, called Wizard World, that attracted thousands of fans and celebrities.
The Decline of Wizard Magazine
However, by the late 1990s, the comic speculator boom had burst, and the comic book industry faced a slump in sales and popularity. Wizard also faced competition from the internet, which offered faster and more accessible sources of comic book information and entertainment. Wizard tried to adapt by revamping its format and content, but it lost its relevance and humor that made it appealing to fans.
In 2006, Wizard laid off several of its staff members, including its co-founder and editor-in-chief Pat McCallum. In 2009, Wizard reduced its frequency from monthly to bi-monthly, and switched to an online-only format in 2011. The last print issue of Wizard was #235, published in March 2011.
The Legacy of Wizard Magazine
The Influence of Wizard Magazine on Comic Culture
Despite its demise, Wizard magazine left a lasting impact on comic culture. Wizard shaped the tastes and opinions of comic fans, introducing them to new talent and trends in the industry. Wizard also created memorable features that became staples of comic fandom, such as the Top 10 lists that ranked the best comics, characters and creators of all time; the fan awards that honored the favorites of the readers; and the exclusive offers that gave fans a chance to own rare and special comics.
Wizard also influenced many comic creators who grew up reading the magazine. Some of them even worked for Wizard or contributed to its content. For example, Brian Michael Bendis, one of the most acclaimed writers in comics today, started his career as a columnist for Wizard. Geoff Johns, another prominent writer and producer, was a former intern and staff writer for Wizard. Mark Millar, a bestselling writer and movie producer, was a guest editor for Wizard #228.
The Collectibility of Wizard Magazine Back Issues
Because of its influence and nostalgia, Wizard magazine back issues are sought after by collectors who want to relive the glory days of comic fandom. Wizard back issues are valuable for several reasons:
They are rare: Wizard had a high circulation in its peak years, but many copies were discarded or damaged over time. Finding mint condition copies of Wizard is not easy, especially for older or more popular issues.
They are nostalgic: Wizard captured the zeitgeist of comic culture in the 1990s and 2000s, reflecting the trends and preferences of comic fans at the time. Reading old issues of Wizard can bring back fond memories of discovering new comics, characters and creators.
They are informative: Wizard was a comprehensive source of comic book information and entertainment, featuring news, interviews, previews, reviews and price guides. Reading old issues of Wizard can provide insight into the history and evolution of comics.
How to Find and Buy Wizard Guide Comics Back Issues
Where to Look for Wizard Back Issues
If you are interested in finding and buying Wizard guide comics back issues, there are several places you can look:
Online platforms: You can search online platforms like eBay, Amazon and OpenSea for listings of Wizard back issues. You can filter your search by issue number, condition, price and seller rating. You can also bid on auctions or buy items directly from sellers.
Local comic shops: You can visit your local comic shops and browse their inventory of Wizard back issues. You can also ask the staff if they have any issues that are not on display or if they can order them for you.
Conventions: You can attend comic conventions and look for vendors who sell Wizard back issues. You can also meet other collectors who may have issues that you are looking for or who may be willing to trade with you.
Flea markets: You can go to flea markets and look for stalls that sell old magazines or comics. You may find some hidden gems among the piles of junk.
How to Determine the Condition and Value of Wizard Back Issues
Once you find some Wizard back issues that you are interested in buying, you need to determine their condition and value before making a purchase 71b2f0854b