What is comic consignment, and how does it work?

How it works

1. You agree terms: commission rate, any minimum price (reserve), how long the consignee will hold the book, who insures it and who pays shipping.
2. You deliver the book. The consignee lists it, markets it, and handles the buyer.
3. When it sells, you are paid the price less the commission, usually within a stated number of days.
4. If it does not sell within the agreed period, it is returned to you or re-listed at a new price.

What to look for in a consignment agreement

• Commission stated as a percentage, with any minimum fee.
• Reserve or floor price — the consignee cannot sell below it without your consent.
• Insurance while in the consignee's custody and in transit.
• Payment timing after the sale.
• Term and what happens at the end of it.
• Grading and pressing decisions — whether the consignee may press or grade the book, and who pays.

Consignment vs auction

Auction houses are consignees too, with the sale price set by bidding on a fixed date. An auction gives a definite outcome and the widest exposure for significant keys; a dealer consignment gives you a fixed asking price and more time. Auction commissions are often split between a seller's fee and a buyer's premium.

When to consign

Consign when the book is valuable enough that the extra return over a dealer's offer is worth waiting for, and when you do not have the audience or the time to sell it yourself. Our consignment and brokerage service sets out the commission, insurance and payment terms up front.