It’s true – after 45 years of selling funny books, I’m finally retiring. In fact, the upcoming September 12th First State Comic Con* at the Millcreek Fire Hall will be my last time setting up at any show or flea market. It’s never an easy thing to do after so many years, especially when you’re retiring from doing something you really enjoyed. As it turns out, the pandemic was probably responsible for me actually meeting my stated goal of many years ago. Not being behind the counter at the shop I started over 40 years ago, not finding new inventory during all of those months, and my stock dwindled as I moved most on eBay. Joe generously bought out my remaining comics (if you see some with green tags, they used to be mine).
Will I miss it? Of course! Naturally, being in a business where everyone who walks through the door wants to be there is certainly a plus – remember, in my other life, I spent over 30 years teaching mathematics in the public school system. And, actually making some bucks doing it ain’t bad either, but what I’ll really miss is the people! I couldn’t have asked for better co-workers. Never much turn-over at Captain Blue Hen Comics. Why break up a good team? And the customers – no, make that extended family members – who were always in a good mood, who you could engage in good conversation or trade barbs with – they made it not seem like a “job” – more like we were members of the cast of Cheers. Believe it or not, we have many who have been with us for decades and a couple for the whole 40+ years!
It does seem like I faded into the mystic (the title of one of my favorite songs) and to Joe’s credit, he wanted to have a farewell event for me, but those who know me best know that that isn’t me. Still, I do want to thank everyone who made these years so special. There are just too many to list, but I hope I made you know you are on the list. I’m sure I’ll run into some of you at the shop, as I will still be by occasionally. Then again, perhaps at the FSCC on the 12th!?
Now for some shameless self-serving promotion. Although I won’t have boxes of comic books to hawk at the show, I will be bringing along comic book related material to move. STUFF I DON’T WANT TO PACK UP AND BRING BACK HOME! So, ANY reasonable offer will be accepted on the trades, plushes, and collectibles.
Any numismatists in the family or friends? Tell them that I will be bringing my binders and boxes of extras (my specialty was collecting Indian Head and Lincoln cents, but I have a few other coins as well) – all being offered at less than guide. (Psst – got any large cents? I’m in the market)
Will I keep an eye on the comic book world? You betcha! The market for comics (collectibles in general really) is good right now with records constantly being broken. I’ve reported sales of key golden age and silver age comics here many times, but how about a copy of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1 in CGC 9.8 bringing $245,000! I’m kicking myself as I sold a sweet copy for a friend for only $1,500 to another dealer a few years ago.
Again, it’s been a good run and thank you to everyone. Good Luck and STAY SAFE!!
paul
*FSCC on FB and FSCC on Twitter
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