How do you read a comic UPC code?

The first 3 numbers 001 indicate the issue number. The fourth number indicates the cover; a 1 is the regular cover. If it was a 2 or 3 it would mean this issue has a variant cover. The fifth and final number tells you the printing, with 1 meaning the issue is a first printing.

Where is the UPC on a comic book?

Comic Book Barcodes. Since the 1980s, comic books sold in retail have included UPC barcodes. Unlike consumer product goods, a 2 or 5 digit supplemental barcode is included to the right of the 12-digit UPC barcode.

Why do some comics have barcodes?

The example with the barcode / UPC code on it is what’s known as a newsstand edition comic book. It was distributed across the newsstand distribution channel, where copies sat on the stands waiting for readers to make a purchase, and any unsold copies were returned to the publisher for a refund.

What year did they start putting barcodes on comic books?

Newsstands and magazine stores used these scanners, so by 1976, comic book companies had to begin adding UPCs to their books.

Why do some comics not have barcodes?

REPEATING THE INITIAL QUESTION: Why Do Some Comics Not Have Barcodes? THE ANSWER: To distinguish returnable newsstand copies from direct-sold non-returnable copies, Marvel placed logos instead of bar codes on direct edition comics of this era.

How can you tell when a comic book was published?

The indicia “small print” on the first page or inside front cover of most comics also tends to contain the proper Title of the publication, the Issue Number, and other helpful information such as the publisher name and date of publication.

Why doesn’t my comic have a barcode?

Why do some comics have a in the barcode?

How do you tell if a comic book is a first edition?

The publisher may actually state the words ‘first edition’ or ‘first printing’ on the copyright page. Another common method of identification is the number line – that’s a line of numbers on the copyright page. Usually, if a one is present in the line then it’s a first edition.

How are comics numbered?

Since they’re published like a book, they’re numbered like books—by an International Standard Book Number (ISBN).

How do you tell if a comic is a first edition?