DC ARCHIVES: Questions & discussion

[AlanScott606]

Are the DC Archives worth the nearly $50 price tag? I have debated on buying some of them but have been a little turned off buy the steep price tag. Thanks for any help

[Lotus]

Depends.

The books collect about 10-15 isues or so in chronological publication order on very high quality paper. That means the price point per issue is $3.50 to $5 per issue, for some of those issues you can't beat that with a stick. I have to get the full set of Legion Archives just because I'm neurotic like that however when it's all said and done I'll have shelled $550+tax for every Legion of Super-Heroes book ever published to me that's worth it. To you maybe not so much.

[Ryan K]

They are very nice books, but they're not really worth $50 IMO.

Fortunately if you go to ebay you can get pretty much any of them in the $20-25 range. In that case they are a very good deal.

[Slam_Bradley]

They are very nice books, but they're not really worth $50 IMO.

Fortunately if you go to ebay you can get pretty much any of them in the $20-25 range. In that case they are a very good deal.

Ryan's correct. You can buy almost any of these books, all day long, for $35. Anything but the newest books, you can usually get in the $20-25 range. If you're persistent and a little lucky, you can get them for under $20.

[The Shadow]

Get em off eBay as suggested... but they are worth it!

Where else are you going to get Action Comics #1 reprinted in full and NOT pay $400k?

[Metamorpho]

I get them off eBay too and haven't paid over 30 bucks for one I wanted yet. Of course I have to bid through multiple auctions to get them at that price but my patience has always paid off.

[Ryan K]

Another Archives tip.

I joined a site called Sequential Swap (www.sequentialswap.com) a while back. Basically you join and then contact other members to trade tpb's. One for one. I've made numerous trades to aquire DC Archives that way. Trade a tpb you paid $15 for, for a DC Archive. Both sides end up happy.

[hotrodimus]

well i just wish anyway they'd come up with SC versions .. but i understand they're coming with something smilar to marvel essential..first one is batman.. hope that becomes successful and most titles follow suit!

[AlanScott606]

Thanks for all the tips. There are a bunch of the DC Archives I would like to own and I think I will give Ebay a try.

Also, thanks to Ryan Kirk for letting me know about that TPB trading site. I will most definitley frequent that site.

[Gaz]

Bit late, but some stories, mainly pre-Crisis, can only be picked up in Archives. I got the 2 New Teen Titans books because of that, and I noticed that they're more expensive than the Marvel HCs retail.

[The Shadow]

well i just wish anyway they'd come up with SC versions .. but i understand they're coming with something smilar to marvel essential..first one is batman.. hope that becomes successful and most titles follow suit!
Yeah but the Batman is in full colour and only $20.00!

[Captain Jim]

Whether or not they're worth $50 probably depends on your affinity for the character in question and the writing and art styles of the period. For me, a Legion book wouldn't be worth it, but a Batman book might be. For someone else, the opposite might be true. Also, with a few exceptions, the golden-age (1940's) volumes probably aren't worth it for me, because I don't care for most of the writing or artwork from that period. On the other hand, many silver-age (1960's) volumes are worth it for me, because I do enjoy much of the writing and art from that period. (There's also the nostalgia factor, since these were the comics from my childhood.) When you figure that it's only $6.25/issue for the silver age material, that really isn't all too bad. Still, paying full price for any of these is probably a lot like paying sticker price at your local car dealer.

[barbgrayson]

to be honest i find it quite too expensive. and some of them are really for sentimental values that some collectors and fans hold dear but some storywise aren't that great. take for example those of the action comics and the action heroes. but that is only an opinion

[Captain Jim]

Welcome to CBR, Barb. :)

[barbgrayson]

Welcome to CBR, Barb. :)
thank you cap!

[Arune Singh]

The LEGION archives are worth it. Not only is it the best writing you'll ever see by a 13yr old, but as it progresses, you'll see why the Legion is so beloved- the comic has always been ahead of its time, no pun intended.

[Slam_Bradley]

I think another issue is how much you care about the history of the character or of comics in general. I've been reading Batman Archives Vol 1 and Dark Knight Archives, Vol. 1 recently (see the Classics board for my thoughts on the individual stories/issues). While the stories and art may be somewhat primitive by todays standards, it is absolutely fascinating to watch the evolution of the Batman character and of Kane's artwork as Moldoff and later Robinson and Roussos come on to do backgrounds and inks. The very clear softening of the Batman, from his very pulpy roots, as Robin is introduced and the evolution of his rouges gallery. Great historical stuff.

[AlanScott606]

I am mostly interested in the Golden Age Green Lantern stories and the Legion of Super Heroes. I have noticed that a few people have said the Legion stuff is great but what about the stories featuring Alan Scott?

[Zero Hunter]

I love the Legion Archives and have all of them. There is defienlty a reason why they have more volumes than any other Archives. I wish DC would get another one out soon.

[T Rath]

What timing, I just received four Archives I recently ordered. I pad about half of cover for all of them.

I think they are well worth the investment but I rarely pay full price. And golden age stories can be a tough go at times - they are very repetitive and often the artwork is rough. It's important to remember that the stories were 1. written for children, 2. in books that were published bi-monthly or quarterly, and 3. expected to be forgotten tomorrow. But the history makes it worth it. And you'd be surprised at what you like. my 13 year old loves the PLastic Man archives. My 16 year old goes for the golden age Batman. Me, I'm a LSH and JSA guy but loved the Aquaman book as well as the Challengers.

I would recommend for every golden age archive you read, pick up a silver age next.

[Ontir]

Are the DC Archives worth the nearly $50 price tag? I have debated on buying some of them but have been a little turned off buy the steep price tag. Thanks for any help

No. They are extremely overpriced, and the art is reproduced at a lesser reduction rate than the art was originally intended for. The result, is expensive, rough and ugly artwork. Save yourself some money, and scour the bargain bins for the 80's digests and back-issues until TPTB @ DC come to their senses, and revive the digest series.

[PokerPro]

Hi all, new here.

I got an e-mail from Mile High for their 20% off Valentines special. So decided to buy issue 436-472 of Batman (to get a run on Tim Drake as Batman).

Any other good suggestions to get, im not deep pocketed, just a student in University. My totals up to about $40 before the discount.

I was also looking to get some archives as I can't afford the vintage stuff. I checked out both Flash and Supergirl archives. But they were out and cost about $39.99 each on eBay. Is there a place where I can get them cheaper? Also are they like Marvels Spiderman Essentials where they have all the old issues? If they aren't how can I get like a run of the silver age type flash?

Also i was checking my wizard and I couldn't find the 1st issue with Wally West as Flash, I was thinking about reading up on flash as I am mostly a Robin and Spider-man reader. Did read Identidy Crisis and kinda got me wanting to read about him.

[Expletive Deleted]

I was also looking to get some archives as I can't afford the vintage stuff. I checked out both Flash and Supergirl archives.I don't know if they have those two, but Amazon has a bunch of archives for $35 or so.

[Paul Newell]

Tales of Wonder (http://www.talesofwonder.com/) deals a lot in Archives as well.

[Mon-el]

Hi all, new here.

I got an e-mail from Mile High for their 20% off Valentines special. So decided to buy issue 436-472 of Batman (to get a run on Tim Drake as Batman).

Any other good suggestions to get, im not deep pocketed, just a student in University. My totals up to about $40 before the discount.

I was also looking to get some archives as I can't afford the vintage stuff. I checked out both Flash and Supergirl archives. But they were out and cost about $39.99 each on eBay. Is there a place where I can get them cheaper? Also are they like Marvels Spiderman Essentials where they have all the old issues? If they aren't how can I get like a run of the silver age type flash?


Welcome to CBR PokerPro.

I got most of my Archives off of Ebay for about 15-25 dollars. I wouldnt pay anymore for them. I am not a big Ebay customer anymore due to bad sellers, people with sniper programs(lost so many original art sales), Sellers using several names to up the bidding. Every now and then you can find good deals. I got double copies of complete runs of Flash, Wonder Woman, bunches more for a relatively cheap price around 50 dollars.

Also i was checking my wizard and I couldn't find the 1st issue with Wally West as Flash, I was thinking about reading up on flash as I am mostly a Robin and Spider-man reader. Did read Identidy Crisis and kinda got me wanting to read about him.

The First Issue of Wally being in full Flash uniform is at the end of Crisis #12. Then began his own title.

[PokerPro]

Mon-el,
Where did you get complete runs of flash for $50? What would I have to search for?

I've been checking eBay for archives. I see alot of BINS for $39.99-49.99.

And others starting at 24.99 and up. Hard to get what i'm looking for

[Mon-el]

Mon-el,
Where did you get complete runs of flash for $50? What would I have to search for?

I've been checking eBay for archives. I see alot of BINS for $39.99-49.99.

And others starting at 24.99 and up. Hard to get what i'm looking for

I got them off of Ebay.

I found 2 sets complete runs from 200-350(silver age Flash only one that was missing was the death of Iris Allen Issue #275), And I found a set from 1-180( I think I paid 70 for those though grade F to NM). I already had these issues. They have been put up long ago, and I considered them to be a deal. Some were better than the copies I had considering I bought the newsstands for years off of spinner racks.

This was all several years ago. When Ebay used to be actually mean something. Like I said, its every now and then that you'll see a good deal, though it is a rarity anymore.

Check under Flash, then check under comics. You have to keep your eye out for them and the best of luck.

[PokerPro]

im going to be checking alot. and wow runs go for alot less on ebay.

[SelinaKyle]

Hey guys, I just picked up the first All-Star volume off Ebay, and to be honest I'm really enjoying it. Looking back at the Golden Age is proving to be both enjoyable and educational.

Do any of you guys own all eleven volumes, and is it worth investing in what is a very pricey collection ? How do the other volumes weigh up ?

My mind is pretty screwed right now as I started reading JSA from number 65, I picked up the series back catalogue from issue 1, which I'm reading too AND of course I'm reading this All Star Volume. But despite the lines of continuity being crossed by reading all three at the same time, its fantastic writing.

[ACK!]

I'm currently working my way through New Teen Titans Archives, Volume 2 and, as in volume one, I'm rediscovering my appreciation of these classic stories. It's interesting to see the artistic progression in terms of story and art with each issue.

Perez is truly starting to develop his technique and style in relation to these characters and Wolfman's scripting shows a firm authority of the conventions of superhero storytelling - particularly in relation to a team. His female characters are particularly well-written and nuanced.

Tellingly, Robin (the original Dick Grayson incarnation) seems to get the least amount of character exploration, but I guess that makes sense as Robin had forty years of exposure at that point, with his backstory well known by the comic reading masses. This was before his relationship with Starfire.

A throwback to a time when comics were more fun, yet still had advanced in terms of character development and subplots. This is the bedrock upon which future Titans books were built and nobody did it better than Wolfman and Perez in their '80s prime.

These volumes can be gotten from Amazon.com for very reasonable prices and I advise anyone looking to see the formative stages of the modern Titans to get these.

[Satana Hellstrom]

Couldn't agree more.
Not for nothing those stories made the book at the time the top-selling DC comic, and the Perez-Wolfman run has become legend.

It was most importantly (IMO) an entertaining read, and its feet were firmly planted in traditional superhero structure...and yet it felt like something new and refreshing.
And the art was simply stunning, of course.
Nobody does it better than Perez...Phil Jimenez would come close, if his art weren't such an obvious example of Perez-lite.

[SUPERECWFAN1]

I'm getting back Issues of the Titans at times. The stories from that early run remain a great read at times even today. The Judas Contract really made me a fan. Shame Wolfman stuck around too long on the series.

[tony2074]

i finally plucked up the courage to buy these, been wanting too for ages, but never had he wonga. still don't but at least im smiling while my girlfriend is watching eastenders...:)

[Kid Kyoto]

Is there any info on future archives avaiable? In particular is there any word on whether or not there will be Legion Archives 13 or a Supergirl Archives 3? Both are hot now so it would seem a good time to do them.

How about a New Gods archive to replace those awful black and white reprints?

[Paul Newell]

No word as yet on either of those. I'll see what I can find online that lists upcoming archives.

[Slam_Bradley]

CBRian Chris CCL has a website devoted to DC's Archives (among other things). He seems to get the scoop on upcoming books pretty early.


Collected Comics Libraray (http://www.collectedcomicslibrary.com/)

[Master Darque]

I would definitely pick up Legion Archives of their disco era with Grell .... I loved the long , lanky look of Superboy and the guys with sideburns and and hair almost to their shoulders ...lol !

[Kid Kyoto]

sigh... Kamandi Archives and no New Gods...

No Legion or Supergirl either.

Ah well.

[Paul Newell]

I would definitely pick up Legion Archives of their disco era with Grell .... I loved the long , lanky look of Superboy and the guys with sideburns and and hair almost to their shoulders ...lol !
All the Grell stuff...bar one issue, has already been collected. :)

Volumes 11 & 12 have the (almost) entire run. Volume 10 is also great as it has the entire Dave Cockrum run in one volume. :)

[YakkSoho]

I'm a big fan of Plastic Man and have seen the Archive series 1 through 6 in stores and on eBay for quite some time.

I'm wondering if DC has ever or ever plans to make paperbacks of these Archive series (as well as the similar series for Green Lantern, &c).

Thanks. :3

[jonahhex]

Hi YakkSoho:

DC is starting to do the chronology series for Batman, if that is successful they are probably going to do Superman next, then who knows.

There is nothing on schedule for Plas. And I would not hold my breath!

Sadly, the best bet to get the Plastic man archives at the price you want in the next year or so is either e-bay or used at Abe books or Amazon. I got Plastic man Archive volume 1 for $25 plus $3.50 postage and handeling. The best price I could find. Happy hunting! By the way, i love Jack cole's Plastic Man, even though I look and act more like woozy winks on a bad day. :D .

[Captain Jim]

I think it's pretty safe to say that there are no plans to put the Archives out in softcover format.

[Kid Kyoto]

In the last year or so I've really gotten into DC archives, I went from owning 1 to owning 10 with more purchases planned. (www.overstock.com (http://www.overstock.com) has several for $30).

So... if you had a say, what are 3 you would drop $50 on (or at least $30)? To keep things interesting, pick one no-brainer, one plausable pick and one off the wall.

No-brainer - Legion Archives 13. I'd order it now if it was available.
Plausible - New Gods, including the 12th issue done in the 80s and Hunger Dogs.
Off the wall - Ambush Bug Archives. The two mini series, the stocking stuffer, the 2 DC comics presents issues, the back up stories in Action comics, the 'nothing special' and the secret origins issue. Scarily I did a complete list of appearances from memory. God those were good comics.

[T Rath]

There are some I'd really like to see a second or more volume(s) of: Aquaman with all that great Cardy and Aparo art, silver age Teen Titans, golden age Flash. Plus some have been announced and not out yet that are definate buys for me: Robin and Kamandi.

So three not announced I would like to see:
Johnny Quick - great Mort Meskin art and a really unique way to show speed in comics.
Warlord - Mike Grell's vision
Scribbly - Shelly Meyer with the first autobiographic comic, decades before the underground guys. Plus it'd be the first non-superhero humor book and we'd get the orginal Red Tornado in later stories.

I'd also like to see a western, maybe something with Toth art - Johnny Thunder? Not sure which strip he worked on. Or maybe the Shining Knight with the Frazetta art.

[Paul Newell]

All-Star Archives - collecting the follow up series from the 70's.
Secret Society of Super-Villains - I don't know...For some reason I have a thing for series from the 70's recently. :)
All-Star Squadron - And the 80's. :D

[Beta Ray Bill]

I'm looking forward to the Kamandi archive and another Aquaman volume would be nice. Jonah Hex archive would be killer. More Charlton books would rule too. There's so many...

[jam]

There are a LOT I'd like to see but I can never remember them ...

However, first and foremost : Metamorpho!!!!

I'd like to see some existing series continue : World's Finest (Vol. 3 coming out soon!), Adam Strange, Superman : Man of Tomorrow ...

Also, I suppose this is a continuation of the Charlton "Action Hero" archive line : Blue Beetle. (Hmm, I'm surprised DC didn't put this out to tie in with the DC Countdown ...)

[Slam_Bradley]

I'd consider paying full price for Scribbly.

Sugar and Spike.

Danger Trail.

Johnny Peril.

Phantom Stranger (1950's).

[Reptisaurus!]

50 bucks is a lotta damn money.

It's insanely stupid that they don't release these puppies in softcover, ever. I don't want to call the suits at DC a bunch of crap-heads who don't actually WANT people to read their comics... But the suits at DC are a bunch of crap-heads who don't WANT people to read their comics.

If these were 20 dollar softcovers, I'd probably be buyin' a different one every couple weeks.

THAT SAID:

I could possibly see myself shelling out 50 (*Shudder*) Dollars for:

The Golden-Age Alfred Archives.

Sugar and Spike Archives.

Hoppy the Marvel Bunny Archives

And, heck, mebbe Ditko's Blue Beetle as well.

[Ryan K]

Guy Gardner Archives Vol. 1. Collect all of the Guy Gardner stuff from the GL books.
New Teen Titans Archives Vol. 2.

I don't know what else. Maybe some more Supergirl, Superboy, and LOSH Archives.

[Swamptours]

I'd really like to see a Metal Men archives. Also, would love to see any of DC's horror anthology series.

[matewan1990]

There's a lot of great DC material out there ... enough that they should be doing more Archives.
But, here are my three picks:
1. Jonah Hex.
2. Unknown Soldier
3. Warlord by Mike Grell
I'd also like to see Swamp Thing get the Archives treatment. Reprint all of the first series and the appearances in Challengers of the Unknown, then reprint the appearances in DC Comics Presents, Brave and the Bold and Saga of the Swamp Thing.
The 1970s Showcases are great, too, especially the Hawkman storyline and the OSS issue.
GI Combat would be great for an Archives edition. Bat Lash would also be a good one. I...Vampire was a great story and worthy of an Archives edition (yeah, I know it's a longshot, but I thought it was great).
More stuff from the 1970s is what I'd love to see.
Here's one that no one will think of:
The Cancelled Comics Cavalcade Archives, which would be a two-volume set, just like the ones distributed in the 1970s.
Mike B.

[dancj]

50 bucks is a lotta damn money.

It's insanely stupid that they don't release these puppies in softcover, ever. I don't want to call the suits at DC a bunch of crap-heads who don't actually WANT people to read their comics...

Well I believe the logic is this....

The Archive volumes cost a lot of money to put together because they have to do a lot of restoration work. Most of them really would never sell in the kind of quantities that would make a profit at a standard TPB price so they have to charge a lot. As they are charging a lot they're left with a choice of charging $40-45 for a softcover or £50 for a hardcover so they opt for the more prestige option.

That said, if the Batman Chronicles tpb sells well there's hope that more projects like it will surface

[AlanScott606]

I would love to see an All Star Sqaudron Archives.

[Reptisaurus!]

Well I believe the logic is this....

The Archive volumes cost a lot of money to put together because they have to do a lot of restoration work. Most of them really would never sell in the kind of quantities that would make a profit at a standard TPB price so they have to charge a lot. As they are charging a lot they're left with a choice of charging $40-45 for a softcover or £50 for a hardcover so they opt for the more prestige option.

That said, if the Batman Chronicles tpb sells well there's hope that more projects like it will surface

Yeahbut...

It seems like, with the restoration work already done, they'd be making even *more* money if they reprint the Hardcover Archives a year or five later in a cheaper paperback format.

I can't believe that I'm the only fan who's turned off from the series by the outrageously high price point.

[Beta Ray Bill]

New Teen Titans Archives Vol. 2
http://www.dccomics.com/graphic_novels/?gn=3862

[Lex]

Metamorpho Archives! :)

[Dante]

I've never purchased one of these and I'm seriously looking at

Action Comics Vol. 1

I love Supes and am really interesting in reading his early days.

These volumes can be found relatively cheap online at various book sellers. If you don't mind used volumes in most cases.

Dante

[dancj]

Yeahbut...

It seems like, with the restoration work already done, they'd be making even *more* money if they reprint the Hardcover Archives a year or five later in a cheaper paperback format.

I can't believe that I'm the only fan who's turned off from the series by the outrageously high price point.

I guess that's why they're trying out the Batman Chronicles format.

For some reason the Tales Calculated to Drive You Mad (which later became Mad Magazine) one does exist im paperback. I also seem to remember some of the other ones coming out in paperback as Barnes and Noble exclusives.

Dan

[ExoKnight]

I'm just curious what everyone thinks about the DC Archives series? What editions do you own? What archives are you favorites? What would you recommend? Did you buy them as a collectors item or something just simply to read?

Steve
ExoKnight

[Mr. Bungle]

I think they're awesome. I buy them to read, since I like the format, and the cleaned up printing and colors. I have:

"Shazam!" Achives 1
Adam Strange Archives 1
Legion of Super-Heroes Archives 10
New Teen Titans Archives 1
New Teen Titans Archives 2

I got all of them except the Legion one and NTT 1 for $25 at Wizard World Philly.

My favorite right now is probably the "Shazam" one.

[Paul Newell]

Love 'em!

I have all the All-Star, JLA volumes and the first 9 Legion of Super-Heroes.

Bought 'em to read and paid full price.

[Expletive Deleted]

I have the first ten LSH volumes (Silver Age goodness) and the first PLASTIC MAN volume (hilarious). I think I got all of them through Amazon, so they were something like 30% off.

[K'Nort]

I love them but I mostly read them via the library. I've picked up 3 via ebay (Spectre, Golden Age Sandman, first JSA) but just can't do full price.

[Slam_Bradley]

I have six volumes at present...

Batman Archives, Vol. 1 - gift
Batman-Dark Knight, Vol. 1 - $10 on e-bay.
Superman, Vol. 1 - $13 on E-bay
Superman, Vol. 5 - $8 at a remainder book store.
Flash, Vol. 1 & 2 - $8 at a remainder book store.


I'd like to have a lot more, but I can't justify the cost. I buy them when I can get them cheap.

[Phil Kollar]

I've started ordering a few of these in using my library's interlibrary loan system. Can't really comment on them yet, I guess, but I love the ide and will probably purchase any that I really want to own/can find for cheap.

[Zero Hunter]

Legion of Super Heroes 1-12
New Teen Titans 1 and 2

Half the fun is hunting them down and getting a good deal.

[The Shadow]

I have Batman Vol 1-3, Detective Comics Vol 1-3, all Star 1 & 2 and a few more that aren't coming to me.

I love em but I hope DC does something similar to the Batman Chronicles and reprints em SLIGHTLY cheaper though.

[Captain Jim]

Hmm, working from memory here. I have the first Batman Archives (cause it was a $20 special). Other than that I've got the first volume of Flash, Green Lantern, Atom and the first two of Hawkman. Also Batman & Robin: the Dynamic Duo (one of my favorites). Also a couple of Will Eisner Spirit volumes (I was gonna get them all, but they're coming out too blamed fast.)

[ExoKnight]

I just have the first batman($20 one) and superman archive. I recently Ordered Seven Soldiers of Victory. Namely, out of curiosity with what Grant Morrision is recently up to.


Steve
ExoKnight

[Ryan K]

I really like them when I can get a hold of them. I've ordered some off ebay and traded for (and traded off) some over the internet.

Currently I only own Green Lantern Archives Vol. 1-2 and Legion of Super-Heroes Archives Vol. 1.

But I'll probably get rid of the GL volumes as soon as the Showcase Presents Volume comes out in September. I would like to get the rest of the LOSH, Supergirl, and Doom Patrol volumes one day (unless of course DC puts them into Showcase Presents volumes)

[The Shadow]

I just have the first ... superman archive.
I forgot I have the first Superman as well

[Colossus]

I have over 40 of them so that is too many for me to list.

Most of the things I thought would be good are in fact really fun. What took me by suprise was some of the archives I thought would be the most lame, are just the opposite.

Adam Strange is fantastic, and Plastic man fricken OWNS!

However, I would pay $100 for a GA Hawkman at this point.

[Gilda Dent]

I have these (27 total):

Legion 1-12
Justice League 1-9
Doom Patrol 1-2
Hawkman 1-2
Teen Titans
Black Canary
Supergirl 1-2

Some I bought myself, some were presents from my SO.

I pretty mush stick with the silver age stuff. I don't have any Batman or Superman volumes yet, because they've only just recently started reprinting the Silver Age stories.

They're remarkably well done, uniformly excellent reproductions, have top notch introductions, but are otherwise a little short on extras.

I have a bunch of the opposition's equivilent books also, about the same number.

[Masterman]

I'm just curious what everyone thinks about the DC Archives series? What editions do you own?

Its the best way to be able to read those old comics. Otherwise you would have to buy the actual copies, that would be much more expensive. :)

[Cei-U!]

I have

All-Star Archives #1-4
Batman Archives #1-4
Batman: The Dark Knight Archives #1-2
Flash Archives #1
Golden Age Flash Archives #1
Green Lantern Archives #1
Justice League of America Archives #1-3
Legion of Super-Heroes Archives #1, 4, 7
New Teen Titans Archives #1
Plastic Man Archives #1
Shazam! Archives #1
Superman Archives #1-4
Superman: The Action Comics Archives #1-2
Superman in World's Finest Archives #1
Wonder Woman Archives #1

The Archives series is a dream come true for a character-oriented Golden Age fan like me who would never be able to afford collecting the originals. I do wish they would run scans of the original printed pages instead of the crappy, soulless recreations they use now but at least I get to read the stories. Since I actively collect the DC Silver Age titles, I generally only buy the first volumes with the early (and expensive) key issues. My only regret is the New Teen Titans book, a total waste of money considering buying the comics reprinted here in mint condition costs less than the Archive.

Bottom line? I love 'em. I wish I had more of 'em.

Cei-U!
I summon the golden oldies!

[Sigerson]

My great-aunt died about 18 months ago, leaving me some money, (still not ALL used up), and ONE thing I did was maybe even go overboard on the DC Archives a little. BUT. We did get all of the extant ones MissKale and I would ever really WANT. Some were mistakes, but not many, and one of them went to a better home who really appreciate it. Amazon is often a good way of getting some of them at better prices, as are sales. I've not had to pay full price for many of these in the long haul.

We have:

Shazam 1-4 (MissKale's favorites and I don't blame her. They are wonderful, pure joy. The Bulletman team-up in particular is just brilliant stuff)
New Teen Titans 1-2 (Cei-U, the quality of the format and my getting them on sale really means I don't MIND the availability issue. And there is one story in them that has become a personal all-time favorite. So I'm going to be... Leniant.)
All-Star Comics 1 and 11. The beginning and the end! Just cause. And there is some INSANE stuff here. No real supervillains in EITHER, just weird superadventure.
Dark Knight 1. I paid $20 Canadian for it, but I still think it's one of the weakest links in the heap to be honest.
The Atom 1-2. So weird. I had just hauled a massive computer for 2 miles. I had earned a treat. And these are. They start off weaker than they get, look out, this chemical element has gone bad, etc. etc... But. It's got real charm, one of my favorite DC characters at the helm and Gardner Fox at his most.. Varied. Not repeating himself, and LUNATIC stuff happens..
Sgt. Rock 2. Fun, Joe Kubert makes it worthwhile, but I am glad I got it on sale...
Flash 2-3. FUN stuff, it has the sense of building on itself the better books DC have, but as much as I love what the character has become, I don't LOVE these as much as some, you know? I regret that, some great stories I enjoy. But not my favorites.
Black Canary. Fascinating because it is the widest OVERVIEW of any of the archives, material spanning decades, 40s to 70s. Most of it highly enjoyable, but especially the 2 or 3 issue length Starman team-ups, great stuff.
Some odd Golden Age eclectic ones, Seven Soldiers of Victory and Comics Cavalcade, which are evil and mad. But often less than the sum of their parts. But both I'm glad I have, with some MAD lunatic stuff in them.
Blackhawk. Sort of disappointing, really. Not Eisner's pinnacle, though hardly bad.
Deadman Collection. Archive in all but name, It's ownly failing, over the strong writing and great art is that the story was never FINISHED.
Superman: The Man of Tomorrow. We both hated it. And MissKale's mother LOVES it. Best Christmas gift we ever came up with for her. It's an odd old world, must say.
Then my personal glee pile, the ones that just make me joyous to read them.
Hawkman 1-2. The modern characters aren't as good. Of ALL Gardner Fox's silver age restarts, this is the best, the art, from ALL concerned, the stories, varied, bizarre, memorable villains and real continuity, just blissful.
Adam Strange, BETTER STILL. My GODS, this is the pure stuff. The wonderous mad covers, the strong, intelligent writing, the canvas of imagination, and one of DCs all time great characters, whose personality and style were unique from day one. The covers are masterpieces, and the stories fit more into 9 pages than Brian Bendis does in 100.
Starman and Sandman. Similar names, these will always be special to me. Sandman is still my favorite DC character. Always will be. Sandman Mystery Theatre really made me a comics fan. And the original doesn't disappoint, it's dark, VIOLENT, (orchids that melt people's flesh in one story), pulp bliss. Starman is just as good, with my favorite Golden Age DC artist, Jack Burnley, being just a plain star. He's still alive, I met him once, talked with him and his wife for a good hour, without him ever mentioning Starman, (he considers his daily Bat and Superman strips to be his career highlight), and years later discovering his work properly with this archive. Of all I have, it's one I recommend more highly than most.

Enemy Ace. Ho boy. There are no words. This book is why Joe Kubert is a legend. It's just.. spectacular. Splurge. No arguing. It would be my favorite if not for one. Bloody hell, the truth is? I don't think any comic book has ever had BETTER art. And I'm not even touching the writing.

Finally.. the one which I don't think ANYONE here has mentioned! Cei-U? No! Oh, wait, Gilda Dent, you win the medal of supreme taste. SOMEBODY else knows.Come on, show some love for...

The Doom Patrol. The Silver Age's best comic. Better than Lee/Kirby FF, it builds on it, but as something unique. EVERY issue is memorable, a joy to read and a beauty to behold. The villains are classics, the writing builds a story over the whole of its run, subplots, reversals, romance, madness, sexy girls, guys in wheelchairs.. Read all this stuff. At the end of the penultimate issue of the second volume, the notion that the villains have all joined forces, (all villains who would be LAUGHABLE in any other hands but these) is a moment of genuine THREAT. It's stuff EVERY comic book fan should read. The one back-up story Robotman Stands Alone is in fact one of the most unique and brilliant comic book stories I've ever read. I won't say any more.
That it will take three more volumes to complete.. worries me! I WANT THE REST NOW! I know the shape of the rest of the story! Give me beast boy! Come on, DC!
I've gone on. And we're more or less Archive-ful now. Only a couple of these would we buy more of. But they are the industry standard for evil fan-glee. No denying.Who can afford them? But when you can it's so often worth it. Be CAREFUL about them, there is variable material out there. But there is stuff NO fan should have to be without. I'm glad I wrote this. Because now I'm rereading Enemy Ace

[Cei-U!]

New Teen Titans 1-2 (Cei-U, the quality of the format and my getting them on sale really means I don't MIND the availability issue. And there is one story in them that has become a personal all-time favorite. So I'm going to be... Leniant.)

The series certainly merits the deluxe treatment. I meant it was a waste of my money because I could've spent the money on another Golden Age archive.

Finally.. the one which I don't think ANYONE here has mentioned! Cei-U? No! Oh, wait, Gilda Dent, you win the medal of supreme taste. SOMEBODY else knows.Come on, show some love for...

The Doom Patrol. The Silver Age's best comic.

Dunno about THE best but it's one of the top ten for sure.

Cei-U!
I summon the Drake/Premiani goodness!

[Evan Lanctot]

I only have the first Superman, Batman, and Legion editions. At $50 a pop, they are just too darn expensive for me....and they are worth every penny. Try collecting the original issues and see what you'll pay.



Evan

[Babylon23]

I'll step forward and say it Sigerson. Doom Patrol is brilliant. I have the first 2 archives, plus a bunch of original issues. This is one of my alltime favourite series. I really hope DC produce volumes 3 and 4.

I also have:
Challengers of the Unknown 1&2: Kirby and Simon producing some of the most entertaining and bizarre stories from the silver age.
Adam Strange: This book is pure gold. I'd recommend it to any fan of the silver age.
Green Lantern 1-3: My favourite DC character (Hal) drawn by one of my favourite artists (Gil Kane).
All-Star Comics 1: GOtta love the JSA.
Spirit 1-3: I'd love to buy them all, but I just don't have the money.
Action Heroes: An underrated book, in my opinion. I love Captain Atom, and although the stories aren't the greatest, Steve Ditko's artwork is phenomenal.

[Kirk G]

I'll step forward and say it Sigerson. Doom Patrol is brilliant. I have the first 2 archives, plus a bunch of original issues. This is one of my alltime favourite series. I really hope DC produce volumes 3 and 4.

I also have:
Challengers of the Unknown 1&2: Kirby and Simon producing some of the most entertaining and bizarre stories from the silver age.
Adam Strange: This book is pure gold. I'd recommend it to any fan of the silver age.
Green Lantern 1-3: My favourite DC character (Hal) drawn by one of my favourite artists (Gil Kane).
All-Star Comics 1: GOtta love the JSA.
Spirit 1-3: I'd love to buy them all, but I just don't have the money.
Action Heroes: An underrated book, in my opinion. I love Captain Atom, and although the stories aren't the greatest, Steve Ditko's artwork is phenomenal.

I'm not sure I understand. Are you offering these Archive volumes? Or just giving your opinion of their relative value?

[Kirk G]

My great-aunt died about 18 months ago, leaving me some money, (still not ALL used up), and ONE thing I did was maybe even go overboard on the DC Archives a little. BUT. We did get all of the extant ones MissKale and I would ever really WANT. Some were mistakes, but not many, and one of them went to a better home who really appreciate it. Amazon is often a good way of getting some of them at better prices, as are sales. I've not had to pay full price for many of these in the long haul.

We have:

Shazam 1-4 (MissKale's favorites and I don't blame her. They are wonderful, pure joy. The Bulletman team-up in particular is just brilliant stuff)
New Teen Titans 1-2 (Cei-U, the quality of the format and my getting them on sale really means I don't MIND the availability issue. And there is one story in them that has become a personal all-time favorite. So I'm going to be... Leniant.)
All-Star Comics 1 and 11. The beginning and the end! Just cause. And there is some INSANE stuff here. No real supervillains in EITHER, just weird superadventure.
Dark Knight 1. I paid $20 Canadian for it, but I still think it's one of the weakest links in the heap to be honest.
The Atom 1-2. So weird. I had just hauled a massive computer for 2 miles. I had earned a treat. And these are. They start off weaker than they get, look out, this chemical element has gone bad, etc. etc... But. It's got real charm, one of my favorite DC characters at the helm and Gardner Fox at his most.. Varied. Not repeating himself, and LUNATIC stuff happens..

Sigerson,
I'm not sure if you are offering the DC Archives to anyone who contacts you, or selling them, or selling off your original comic books.
Anyway, my 11 year old daughter is seeking the New Teen Titans whether they are the complete Archive volumes 1 & 2, or if they are simply issues #1 & 2.
Please let me know. Thanks. Kirk G

[Paul Newell]

Nah, people are just listing what volumes they own, Kirk, as Exoknight asked. :)

[Babylon23]

I'm not sure I understand. Are you offering these Archive volumes? Or just giving your opinion of their relative value?

Sorry for the confusion. I was just responding to Exoknight's quesions. Good luck finding the volumes you need.

[Gilda Dent]

I only have the first Superman, Batman, and Legion editions. At $50 a pop, they are just too darn expensive for me....and they are worth every penny. Try collecting the original issues and see what you'll pay.


You really shouldn't need to pay any more than about $35 each for them.

Kirk G: You can usually find the New Teen Titans on E-bay for a very reasonable price. Right now theres a run of Vol 1, 1-58 with no bids for $40, which is about the price of volume one of the Archives. This is by far the best part of the series.

A quick check also turned up a set of the first 50 for $15 with no bids yet.

These are great comics, with top notch artwork.

Gilda

[ExoKnight]

I have been reading the current JSA series for the past few years and enjoying it very much. Such rich history behind the characters. So I decided to order the first All-Star Archive from amazon. I'm looking to eventually pick them all up. Does anyone have these archives and sorta give me a preview of what to expect?

I know they were written during the 40s, but I'm curious to see where the team originated and where certain heroes and villians first made their appearances. Any opinions would be appreciated?

[handOFfate]

I don't know anything about Barry Allen, and i've heard that these stories are pretty good. I have the cash for it, should I go ahead with Volume One?

[The Wayner]

Ayup; most definitely.

[Buried Alien]

They are good, but they are also hella expensive. I think DC will soon put out a more economic, black-and-white reprint series (they've already done so for SUPERMAN and GREEN LANTERN, so I imagine FLASH should be coming soon).


Buried Alien (The Fastest Post Alive!)

[The Wayner]

They are good, but they are also hella expensive. I think DC will soon put out a more economic, black-and-white reprint series (they've already done so for SUPERMAN and GREEN LANTERN, so I imagine FLASH should be coming soon).

I certainly hope so! Even though I have the archives, it'd be a great way for other comic lovers to be introduced to Barry. And heck, I could even pick'em up for Christmas/birthday gifts. :D

[Babylon23]

If you're lookiong for fun, entertaining superhero stories full of ideas (some good, some bad, some quirky, and some just plain bizarre), then I'd definitely recommend Flash. Carmine Infantino produced some of the finest silver age art on this title.

It's also an interesting look at the beginning of the Silver Age.

[Hellpop]

Oh my God, yes, are they worth it. Those stories are fantastic!

[Captain Jim]

If you got the cash, sure. And as much as I appreciate the Showcase volumes, those stories were produced for color and I think they lose something in the translation.

[Calybos]

I think the best answer is, "They're Silver Age." Some stories are on the silly side, a lot of implausible and ridiculous coincidences and seemingly over-the-top speeches and attitudes... but also a lot of solid heroics and earnest showndowns over important issues.

If you love the Silver Age (as I do), it's a great book. If you're a nineties kinda guy, you'd probably snicker and sneer.

[Chris Thomas]

These things just sit on the shelf and make me salivate. but very expensive price tags.

so

1. are they worth it, in general? i.e. if you are just looking to read some, is there a cheaper medium in which to read say the jsa early years?

2. which are the best--both titles and volumes?

3. are any 'lousy'?

4. which would be the first in which to build a 'dc library'?

[kossori]

I only have one Archive, myself, and that would be All-Star volume 1.
I like it, but I got it off e-bay for half-price.

I don't think I'd be able to spend full price on a book like that unless I gave up reading monthlies. Way too expensive. Of course, when compared to the price of the originals...
But then, I ain't runnin' out to buy those, either.

I'm actually liking Marvel's Essentials and I'm glad DC finally got around to not being scared of accusations of copying Marvel and put out their own version. I just wish they'd hurry up with a Doom Patrol one.

[K'Nort]

Considering they just solicited Vol 3 of a Doom Patrol Archives, I don't have high hopes for a Doom Patrol Showcase. Except for the initial Superman/Hal thing, they don't seem to be duplicating titles.

And half-price Archives are pretty easy to come by on eBay. Even when you factor in about $5 for shipping. That's how I've accumulated most of mine.

[The Shadow]

DAMN skippy they are good and worth the money!

I have Batman Vol 1-3, Detective Comics Vol 1-3, Wonder Woman Vol 1, Worlds Finest Vol 1, Flash Vol 1, Action Comics Vol 1,2 and Superman Vol 1

I'm getting the oldest stuff first... next up is Green Lantern.

As for price I believe you can get the early Archives fairly cheap now. Superman Vol 1 is 20.00!!!

[Paul Newell]

I'm a big fan as well.

I have All-Star 1-11, JLA 1-9 and Legion of Super-Heroes 1-9 and all volumes have been read several times.

[Chris Thomas]

well I'm convinced

I think I'll start with All-Star 1 and maybe JLA 1 (that issue with the JLA as galley slaves intrigues me for some reason). I heard that Legon 6 contains some 'key' issues so maybe I'll look for that one.

which Batman archives are key? which are earth 1 and which are earth 2? or will the answer give me a headache?

[ScottDMSimmons]

I have and treasure the only Archives I have... The Doom Patrol Archives (Volumes 1 and 2). I can't wait for Volume 3!!!

For me, finding the originals from the first series in any sort of good shape is almost impossible, and I've been enjoying the collected hardbound format. The only original Drake DP issue I have is his last, where the team blows up with the island. Classic, classic issue.

--Scott

[AlterEgo]

the archives make it affordable for those of us interesting in those stories that were contained in expensive and hard-to-find Gold and Silver age comics.

i've been buying the superman, action, batman, detective, wonder woman, all-star comics, plastic man, legion of super-heroes, and the spirit archives since they came out. love 'em! i'd be buying the jla and green lantern ones too but i already own all the separate issues.

didn't know that there were 2 doom patrol archives already released. i'm going to have to order those.

[MWGallaher]

My public library stocks a lot of the DC Archives. but if yours doesn't, almost every library in the USA offers Inter-Library Loans. Yes, you can actually read these collections of classic comics just by going down to your local library, filling out a form, maybe paying a few bucks depending on the library's policy, and waiting a week or two for some other library to send it your way. If you wanna try out the Archives, this is definitely the way to sample them.

[Paul Newell]

I heard that Legon 6 contains some 'key' issues so maybe I'll look for that one.

If you're interested in starting with the Jim Shooter era of Legion then any of the volumes from 5 to 8 contain key issues for hs run.

Vol. 5 contains the Computo storyline, Star Boy being expelled for killing, the Super-Stalag of Space. These stories were written by Edmond Hamilton. The introduction of Karate Kid, Princess Projectra and Ferro Lad and the Khunds in Shooter's first story, the introduction of Dr. Regulus and Universo.

Vol. 6 contains the introduction of the White Witch, the Fatal Five and the Sun-Eater, the famous "Adult Legion" story, Lana Lang joining the Legion and the introduction of the Controllers.

Vol. 6 contains Universo getting the Legion outlawed, the introduction of the Dominators, the return of the Fatal Five, the introduction of Shadow Lass and the Dark Circle.

Vol. 8 contains the origin of the Legion, the introducton of Mordru, the origin of the Legion of Super-Villains and the introduction of the Tornado Twins.

So Vol. 6 is a good one to start with, but the other volumes I mentioned have their merits as well. :)

[K'Nort]

My public library stocks a lot of the DC Archives. but if yours doesn't, almost every library in the USA offers Inter-Library Loans. Yes, you can actually read these collections of classic comics just by going down to your local library, filling out a form, maybe paying a few bucks depending on the library's policy, and waiting a week or two for some other library to send it your way. If you wanna try out the Archives, this is definitely the way to sample them.

And the more you request, the more they buy.

I've read a lot of JSA and JLA archives this way. That way I don't have to wait for the price to come down.

[Chris Thomas]

If you're interested in starting with the Jim Shooter era of Legion then any of the volumes from 5 to 8 contain key issues for hs run.

Vol. 5 contains the Computo storyline, Star Boy being expelled for killing, the Super-Stalag of Space. These stories were written by Edmond Hamilton. The introduction of Karate Kid, Princess Projectra and Ferro Lad and the Khunds in Shooter's first story, the introduction of Dr. Regulus and Universo.

Vol. 6 contains the introduction of the White Witch, the Fatal Five and the Sun-Eater, the famous "Adult Legion" story, Lana Lang joining the Legion and the introduction of the Controllers.

Vol. 6 contains Universo getting the Legion outlawed, the introduction of the Dominators, the return of the Fatal Five, the introduction of Shadow Lass and the Dark Circle.

Vol. 8 contains the origin of the Legion, the introducton of Mordru, the origin of the Legion of Super-Villains and the introduction of the Tornado Twins.

So Vol. 6 is a good one to start with, but the other volumes I mentioned have their merits as well. :)


awesome post. thanks for the breakdown! but now I am driven to start at number 1! my wife sends her 'thanks.'

btw I am becoming a major legion fan. read the first waid tbp (off topic here obviously) and man---awesome!

[Paul Newell]

awesome post. thanks for the breakdown! but now I am driven to start at number 1! my wife sends her 'thanks.'

btw I am becoming a major legion fan. read the first waid tbp (off topic here obviously) and man---awesome!
No worries Chris. :)

I find it better to start at #1 with the Legion. There are twelve volumes released with varying degrees of "readability". I ended up keeping only 1-9 as that was the sum total of the Silver Age Adventure/Action stories....I ended up building my collection to the back up stories in Superboy, before the Legion takes over that title.

FYI here's a breakdown of the other volumes:

Vol. 1: Contains the major appearances before their regular series started in Adventure #300 as well as the first 6 stories of the series. Includes the first appearance of the Legion, meeting Supergirl, the first appearances of most Silver Age Legionnaires, Mon-El being put into the Phantom Zone by Superboy, Lex Luthor and the adult Legion of Super-Villains, the origin of the Legion of Super-Pets and the death of Lightning Lad.

Vol. 2: Contains the origin of the Substitutes, the introduction of Element Lad, Lightning Lad's return, the death of the Legion, Jimmy Olsen joining the Legion and the intro of Dream Girl.

Vol 3: Contains the first Time Trapper story, the heroes of Lallor and the introduction of Timber Wolf.

Vol. 4: Contains the Bizarro Legion, Lightning Lad losing an arm, Starfinger, Lana Lang becoming Insect Queen, Glorith and the Time Trapper.

Vol. 9: Contains the last 4 Adventure storie and the Action back ups. Includes the first appearance of Saturn Girl's pink bikini.

Vol. 10: Contains the Superboy back ups and the entire run of Dave Cockrum stories. Includes just about everybody getting their 70's costumes, the introduction of Wildfire, and the wedding of Bouncing Boy and Duo Damsel.

Vol. 11 & 12: Contain all but one of the Mike Grell stories.