The comic market is mainly dominated by the two powerhouse publishers, Marvel and DC Comics. This has been established in the market for as long as comics have been in circulation. Though, it feels in the last handful of years the comic market has started to diversify to many independent (Indie) publishers. Notable Indie publishers include and not limited to names such as  Image Comics, Aftershock Comics, Oni Press, Dark Horse Comics, Action Lab, Boom Studios!, and Vault Comics. The advantage of these publishers is they are able to provide different stories and characters. This, compared to the standard "hero/villain" plot that Marvel and DC Comics produce on a consistent basis. Interestingly enough, fans believe in Indie comics and this has led to a rise in the value of these books.

It's not all about superheroes

The rise of Indie comics is definitely seen and perceived as a breath of fresh air in the perspective of a reader.  For example, one independent comic that has been received rave reviews from readers is Something is Killing the Children. The comic is produced by Boom Studios!. I'd rather not spoil too much about the story, but it is an ongoing horror series about kids disappearing in the small town of Archer's Peak.

This title is proving that Indie books can compete with the staples of Marvel & DC Comics. Firstly, the comic was originally supposed to be a limited five-issue series. Due to the popularity and support from fans, the series has been pushed as ongoing currently. The series is currently on issue #12. The value of the comics is another reason that proves Indie titles can make it. Something is Killing The Children #1 is the most valued book in the series and the regular cover A goes for about $270 at fair market value (FMV)  for a grade of 9.8. In addition, many of the early issues of the series are also highly coveted due to low print and are worth much more than the cover price.

 

 

Investment speculation?

From a speculation standpoint, Indie books appear to be on the weekly gamble.  Determining if they could produce nice financial gains is always a hope. Specifically, I am referring to the new weekly releases on "Comic Book Wednesdays".  The gamble can produce a big profit. Just imagine if the right title takes off and is rumored to be "optioned" as a television show or movie.

 

With that, it appears Indie titles have a secure spot in the comic world. Many titles in the last couple of years, such as The Boys, Umbrella Academy, Locke & Key, and of course, The Walking Dead. The titles mentioned here have been received well by fans. As a result, the values of these titles have spiked in a huge way. These titles have surged due to being adapted into a television show. The popularity of the show along with increased demand for obtaining the issues has allowed individuals to make a nice profit as well.

 

 

For this example, the title, Umbrella Academy, is a hit television show for Netflix, and the value of this issue has increased greatly. The first printed story of this series was a free comic that could be obtained on "Free Comic Book Day"! The profit for individuals who had this issue is spectacular. Umbrella Academy: Free Comic Book Day has an estimated FMV of $180 for a 9.8 graded copy. That is a very good value for an issue that is given for free.

 

 

 

Keep an eye on Indie Comics in the future

In the end, Indie titles have established themselves among the publisher giants and produce an escape and breath of fresh air for readers. In addition, many titles can provide a  nice investment and produce a big profit in the long run.