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Short, direct answers to the questions collectors search for most.
FAQ
“Slab” is collectors' slang for the sealed plastic holder a grading company such as CGC or CBCS puts a comic in after grading, and by extension for the graded comic itself. A slabbed comic has a label with its grade and certification number and cannot be read without breaking the case. The term comes from the coin-collecting hobby, where encapsulated coins were called slabs first.
Updated Sep 14, 2026
FAQ
They are the traditional grade names that predate the numeric scale: NM is Near Mint (9.2–9.8), VF is Very Fine (7.5–9.0), FN is Fine (5.5–7.0), VG is Very Good (3.5–5.0), GD is Good (1.8–3.0), and FR and PR are Fair and Poor (1.0–1.5 and 0.5). Plus and minus signs move within the range, so VF/NM is 9.0 and VG+ is 4.5. Reputable sellers of raw books give both the name and the number.
Updated Sep 14, 2026
FAQ
“None higher” means that, according to the grading company's census, no copy of that issue has been graded above the grade on the label. “Top of census” means the same. “One of three in 9.8, none higher” tells you exactly where the copy sits in the population. These phrases carry a premium because they identify the finest known graded copies.
Updated Sep 14, 2026
FAQ
A reading copy is a comic in low enough grade that its value lies in being read rather than collected — usually Good or below, with creases, tears, spine wear or writing but complete. For most issues it is the cheapest way to own the story; for major keys, a reading copy can still cost a great deal because demand for any copy of the issue is so high.
Updated Sep 14, 2026