The Virginia Vintage Comics and Collectibles Show returns to the Salem Civic Center for the 28th year on Saturday, Aug. 23. Started in 1998 by Roger and Nancy Mannon of Floyd, the show is now the longest running comic show in the state.
“There are a growing number of comic book and collectible shows and old comics can be found at many of them,” Roger Mannon said. “But we are the one that specializes in older comics.”
When it started, Virginia Vintage was the only comic book show between Richmond and Bristol, but since then the number of shows has mushroomed. There have been shows in Blacksburg, Wytheville, Dublin and Hillsville, and even the little village of Woodlawn sponsored a comic-con.
Because of its unique nature the show has over the years drawn vendors and collectors from 16 states, as far away as New York, Florida and Oklahoma. Chris Budel, of Nostalgia Zone, has made the 1,100-mile trip from Minneapolis several times, and he calls Virginia Vintage “the best one-day, small-city show in the United States.”
Comic books were a staple of life in the mid-20th century and have enjoyed a resurgence in recent years. One reason is the proliferation of blockbuster movies based on comic books. Not only have iconic heroes like Superman and Batman been the subject of movies, but in recent years, even secondary characters have spawned movie franchises.
Another reason for renewed interest in comics is that some of them have become extremely valuable. Action #1, which introduced Superman, sold for 10 cents in 1938 and today can bring as much as $6 million.
“People are interested in the valuable comics, but the great majority at our show can be had for $5 or less.”
In addition to old comics, other vintage collectibles are found at the show, including toys, games, sports, magazines, pulps and other memorabilia.
The Civic Center is located at 1001 Roanoke Blvd. Show hours are 10 to 5.
Admission is a vintage-era $5 for adults, and 12-andunder admitted free.
For additional information call 540-320-7056.
-The Salem Times-Register
