Collector FAQ
Collecting underground comix, alternative comics and independent publications often means looking closely at the individual copy. Here are some useful starting points before you buy. For details about a particular comic, contact us with the product link.
Condition
What do condition terms mean?
Terms such as Near Mint, Very Fine, Fine, Very Good and Good describe a comic’s overall state, from relatively light wear to more substantial wear. In collector terminology, “Good” does not mean an almost-new copy. Read the individual listing and any condition notes rather than relying on a label alone. A condition description is not a promise of a particular third-party grade.
Which defects should I look for?
Check for spine stress, creases, tears, corner and edge wear, stains, writing, staple rust, loose or detached covers, and missing pages or pieces. Page colour and brittleness can also matter. Restoration or repairs are separate details worth asking about. If a feature matters to you and is not clear in the listing, ask before ordering.
Can I ask for more condition details or photos?
Yes. Send the product link and tell us which area you want to check, such as the spine, back cover, staples or interior pages. Ask whether the listing photos show the specific copy offered and whether additional images are available.
Raw versus graded comics
What is the difference between raw and graded?
A raw comic is not encapsulated in a third-party grading holder. A third-party graded comic has been assessed by a grading company and is usually sealed in a holder with a label. For a graded listing, check the company, grade, certification details and any label notes. Do not assume a raw copy is professionally graded.
Will a raw comic receive a particular grade or become more valuable?
A raw condition description does not guarantee a future grading result. Grading involves judgement, and defects or restoration can affect the outcome. A graded copy is not automatically a better purchase for every collector. Consider the edition, condition, your collecting goals and any grading costs. We do not promise future resale values or investment returns.
Editions, printings and rarity
How do I check which edition or printing I am buying?
Match the title, issue number, publisher, publication date and printing information in the listing. A cover variant, later printing and reprint are different details; an issue number alone does not identify a printing. For underground and small-press comics, ask about the indicia, copyright page, cover price or other identifying features if the printing is unclear.
Does “rare” or “hard to find” guarantee value?
No. Scarcity, demand, printing and the condition of the individual copy are different considerations. A description such as “hard to find” is not a verified print-run figure or a guarantee of future value. If a particular edition or rarity claim is important to your decision, ask what information supports it.
Authenticity and sourcing
How can I check authenticity, signatures or restoration?
Review the listing’s edition details and any stated certification or provenance. A signature alone is not the same as independently authenticated signature documentation, and a certificate should be considered on its own terms. Ask about any available supporting information, restoration or repairs before buying. Do not assume an item is signed, authenticated or unrestored unless the listing supports that description.
Where does Pure Comics source its stock?
Pure Comics is an independent Australian online comic shop specialising in underground, alternative and independent comics. We hunt down the strange, obscure, hard to find and downright weird, from vintage underground comix and small-press publications to independent comics, manga and cult favourites. For the known background or provenance of a specific item, contact us. Do not assume a particular supplier or ownership history where none is stated. Read more about us.
Shipping and order issues
What does Australian shipping cost?
Our shipping policy lists flat-rate standard shipping at $12 Australia-wide and free standard shipping on orders over $60 within Australia. See our Shipping Policy for the published shipping and packaging details.
How are comics packed, and when will my order arrive?
As collectors ourselves, we know that proper packaging is everything when it comes to comics. Our shipping policy states that all items are securely packed. For questions about packaging for a particular item, delivery timing or a destination not covered by the published policy, contact us before ordering rather than assuming a delivery date or service.
What if my order arrives damaged or is not as expected?
Please inspect your order upon arrival. If your item is damaged or not as expected, contact us immediately. Our published return policy provides 30 days from the date of delivery to request a return, and the item must be in the same condition as when you received it. Email purecomics@outlook.com to request a return. See the Refund Policy for the full process and approval requirements.
Ask about a specific item
What information should I send?
Use our Contact Us page, email purecomics@outlook.com, or call 0494389805. Include the product link, title and issue number, plus your question about condition, printing, provenance or shipping. For an existing order, include your order number. Specific questions help us focus on the details that matter to your collection.