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Your Ultimate (Digital) Beginner’s Guide to Comic Collecting Terms

TOP 10 DC COMICS AVAILABLE ON CANDY DIGITAL

Welcome back friends &amp; hello new readers, to an updated chat on collecting in the digital age and the growing importance of edition (mint) numbers in the hot-topic pursuit of showroom glory!If you’re new to platforms like&nbsp;<a href="https://www.veve.me/" data-as-button="false" data-mce-href="https://www.veve.me/">VeVe</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.candy.com/dc" data-as-button="false" data-mce-href="https://www.candy.com/dc">DC NFT / Candy Digital</a>, you’re in for a treat. We’re jumping back into the pages of a rapidly-growing, captivating concept that’s sweeping floors &amp; marketplaces within the digital collecting scene, with a term I would like to coin as: “MINTOLOGY.”Grab that coffee (right&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/doublequillnft" data-as-button="false" data-mce-href="https://x.com/doublequillnft">@Doublequill</a>?) and get ready to explore the thrilling art of collecting those fancy mint numbers!<h1>So, What Exactly is MINTOLOGY?</h1>Simply put, Mintology is the study and pursuit of collecting unique mint numbers (or edition numbers) on digital collectibles. Mint numbers are akin to a collectible’s serial number, like a numerical signature and they play a pivotal role in defining the rarity and value of digital assets, much like their physical counterparts.In the ‘early days’ of digital collecting, lower mint numbers held clout as “hot of the press” or first-to-mint numbers were harder to come by, often given bonus points from the platforms and thus quickly became more coveted.Over the past few years however, things began to change, and this is where mintology comes into play - a blend of mint numbers + collecting, sprinkled with a dash of digital delight!<h1>What’s Changing and why do Special Mint Numbers Matter?</h1>Think of it this way: just as in traditional collecting where a low serial number or a rare asset / very nifty number can make an item highly desirable, in the digital realm, mint numbers hold similar charms. Collectors are increasingly drawn to these unique identifiers as they add layers of exclusivity and individuality to their collections. Add to this that significant brands are directly involved, officially licensing their coveted intellectual property (IP) for use in digital asset collecting, and things that can help set pieces apart have taken on an entirely new level of significance. Those early to these apps are grabbing up these items quickly, with a mutual consensus the timing is still quite early, where the bulk of mainstream (&amp; physical) collectors have not yet dove deep into this space.For instance, on platforms like VeVe or DCNFT (Candy Digital), where digital collectibles are bought and sold in vibrant marketplaces, collectibles with fancy mint numbers are fetching premium prices, making mintology a valuable aspect of the collecting strategy.Some brands, like The Comics &amp; Crypto Podcast are now even placing&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/ComicsandCrypto/status/1811081586491936901" data-as-button="false" data-mce-href="https://x.com/ComicsandCrypto/status/1811081586491936901">BOUNTIES</a>&nbsp;on key edition numbers to reward lucky 'drop winners' who land 1:1 Mints referencing the year of comic key publication dates. These are REAL DOLLARS. Real Collector Dollars in a real marketplace:<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_xo7eQ9SDyg" data-as-button="false" data-mce-href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_xo7eQ9SDyg"><img title="Screenshot 2024-09-08 at 11.27.37 AM" src="https://img.gocollect.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJnb2NvbGxlY3QuaW1hZ2VzLnN0YWdlIiwia2V5IjoiYmxvZ1wvMDI1Yzc1MmEtM2E0Ni00NTEyLTgxZWItMzg4MmY1MTY0NDcxLnBuZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MTI4MH19fQ==" width="946" height="602" data-mce-src="https://img.gocollect.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJnb2NvbGxlY3QuaW1hZ2VzLnN0YWdlIiwia2V5IjoiYmxvZ1wvMDI1Yzc1MmEtM2E0Ni00NTEyLTgxZWItMzg4MmY1MTY0NDcxLnBuZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MTI4MH19fQ=="></a>The concept of mintology isn’t just about the numbers; it’s also about understanding how these numbers impact a collectible’s value and desirability. A common thread among serious collectors is the pursuit of those “holy grail” (1:1) mint numbers, such as highly correlated historical dates (think Aug 1939 for Marvel Comics #1, 1961 or 19618 for the August 1961 Publication date of Fantastic Four #1, 628 (’62 August) FA Spider-Man from Amazing-Fantasy #15 or May '75 for Wolverine's first joining the X-Men in Giant Size X-Men #1). Then there are those coveted fancies like the binaries (1's and 0's), sequential (1234 4321), or FUN (8008 ring a bell?)These specific numbers often come with hefty price tags, but can also be the crown jewels of a collection. Consider the analogy of traditional physical collectibles, such as rare baseball cards or limited-edition stamps. Just as collectors have always had an eye for rare editions or low serial numbers, palindromes or sequentials, digital collectors now have the same zeal for their virtual counterparts. Mint numbers can be seen as the digital version of those rare finds.As you navigate through platforms like VeVe, DC/Candy Digital, Topps &amp; more, you’ll discover a world where every mint number tells a story. These platforms offer a treasure trove of digital assets, each with its own unique mint number, adding layers of intrigue and investment&nbsp;potential&nbsp;to any collecting journey (as always, NFA, but the parallels are certainly there).I mean come on…how can you NOT find collections like those of&nbsp;SUPREME MASTER COLLECTOR&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/cleverjerk" data-as-button="false" data-mce-href="https://x.com/cleverjerk">@Cleverjerk</a>&nbsp;appealing from a visual standpoint?&nbsp; These pairings are a new form of artwork, blending his years of physical comic &amp; asset collecting with the excitement of pairing many of those assets with their newer digital counterparts, with numbers any collector can immediately visualize as appealing.&nbsp; And that’s the point…"VeVe has been an incredibly fun way for me to express my collecting interests across a variety of IP, both physical and digital.&nbsp; Mint Numbers have Meaning, absolutely, as they differentiate digital assets in rather unique ways that are fun to showcase!&nbsp; VeVe, and other platforms like DC/Candy etc. have certainly re-invigorated my overall, long-standing passion of comic collecting."<img title="Screenshot 2024-09-08 at 12.18.12 PM" src="https://img.gocollect.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJnb2NvbGxlY3QuaW1hZ2VzLnN0YWdlIiwia2V5IjoiYmxvZ1wvOGU5NTI0MTYtMTllZC00MDQ5LWE4MDMtNjEwYTM3NmVlZTJhLnBuZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MTI4MH19fQ==" width="1694" height="1196" data-mce-src="https://img.gocollect.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJnb2NvbGxlY3QuaW1hZ2VzLnN0YWdlIiwia2V5IjoiYmxvZ1wvOGU5NTI0MTYtMTllZC00MDQ5LWE4MDMtNjEwYTM3NmVlZTJhLnBuZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MTI4MH19fQ==">On a personal note, as I’ve discussed many times, I simply ADORE the hunt - also akin to bargain box searches or scouring old ‘throwaways’ at garage sales.&nbsp; I enjoy the homework too…looking up key dates on Marvel, Google and so forth and then having a peek at&nbsp;<a href="https://gocollect.com/app/dashboard" data-as-button="false" data-mce-href="https://gocollect.com/app/dashboard">GOCOLLECT</a>&nbsp;to check what the Fair Market Values on those books to paint a more holistic picture on assets of interest.&nbsp; Where some love the thrill of the gamble on drop days, my thrills begin in the marketplace.<h3>I asksed SERIOUS VeVe mint hunter Daniel (<a href="https://x.com/ViVa_La_VeVe" data-as-button="false" data-mce-href="https://x.com/ViVa_La_VeVe">@VivaLaVeVe on X</a>) why he takes such effort to collect these types of assets:</h3>“My journey on VeVe started with humble beginnings. I was Initially attracted to collectibles that brought about nostalgic emotions stemming from my youth (many moons ago!), though my focus over recent times has transitioned into the world of special mint collecting.Personally, this has been a game changer.&nbsp; I can continue to collect what I love, but also focus on assembling bespoke sets / collections. And whilst this adds another dimension of ‘having fun’ within the VeVe ecosystem, it also offers me a greater potential return on investment (NFA).<img title="Screenshot 2024-09-08 at 11.57.48 AM" src="https://img.gocollect.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJnb2NvbGxlY3QuaW1hZ2VzLnN0YWdlIiwia2V5IjoiYmxvZ1wvNDk4ZDA1OTAtNTJiNi00ODA4LWEyNzItOTczODQ5Y2U0MjUxLnBuZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MTI4MH19fQ==" width="1686" height="522" data-mce-src="https://img.gocollect.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJnb2NvbGxlY3QuaW1hZ2VzLnN0YWdlIiwia2V5IjoiYmxvZ1wvNDk4ZDA1OTAtNTJiNi00ODA4LWEyNzItOTczODQ5Y2U0MjUxLnBuZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MTI4MH19fQ==">Within my vault I currently have 1,528 unique mint items. Some are special in the truest sense, such as specific cover dates, sequential, binary, and angel mints, whereas some maybe veer on the side of just being in the ‘cool’ category. Here a few of my humdingers:Uncanny X-Men #266, Mint 11111 - Reflects Gambit’s FAFantastic Four #52, Mint 1234 - Sequential mint of a key bookHulk #181, Mint 1997 - Nod to the epic X-Men 97 seriesStar Wars #1, Mint 5477 - A classic ‘May the Force’ 1977 themed mintUltimately, whilst none of this represents financial advice, special mint collecting allows me to enhance my overall collecting experience, while diversifying my portfolio, and most of all, bringing a lot of joy between my physical and digital collecting paths.”<img title="Screenshot 2024-09-08 at 11.50.06 AM" src="https://img.gocollect.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJnb2NvbGxlY3QuaW1hZ2VzLnN0YWdlIiwia2V5IjoiYmxvZ1wvM2UyZGUzNzYtM2NmMy00OTdlLThjNzgtZDE1MjVmNzYwYjFhLnBuZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MTI4MH19fQ==" width="1884" height="1128" data-mce-src="https://img.gocollect.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJnb2NvbGxlY3QuaW1hZ2VzLnN0YWdlIiwia2V5IjoiYmxvZ1wvM2UyZGUzNzYtM2NmMy00OTdlLThjNzgtZDE1MjVmNzYwYjFhLnBuZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MTI4MH19fQ==">Mintology is more than just a trendy term, it’s a bartender’s Mixology equivalent within the digital collectibles sphere. In this writer’s humblest of opinions, pay attention to mint numbers, whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out.&nbsp; If you own some interesting editions, do the homework and check if your numbers may have any unique meaning before listing in marketplaces, as these are great ways to break out from the herd, while maybe picking up a few points on your list price.&nbsp; Embracing mintology can add a whole new dimension to your digital collecting adventure, which, trust me on this, makes the entire ecosystem way more fun!<h4>If interested in a bit more homework, please check out the other articles I wrote further back on the topic: <img title="Screenshot 2024-09-08 at 11.03.41 AM" src="https://img.gocollect.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJnb2NvbGxlY3QuaW1hZ2VzLnN0YWdlIiwia2V5IjoiYmxvZ1wvOGZmOTg4YWItNTNmNC00MDAyLWIwZGYtODA5YmI1ZjYyNjQ1LnBuZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MTI4MH19fQ==" width="1128" height="598" data-mce-src="https://img.gocollect.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJnb2NvbGxlY3QuaW1hZ2VzLnN0YWdlIiwia2V5IjoiYmxvZ1wvOGZmOTg4YWItNTNmNC00MDAyLWIwZGYtODA5YmI1ZjYyNjQ1LnBuZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MTI4MH19fQ=="> <a href="https://gocollect.com/blog/phygital-collecting-do-you-care-about-mint-s" data-mce-href="https://gocollect.com/blog/phygital-collecting-do-you-care-about-mint-s">https://gocollect.com/blog/phygital-collecting-do-you-care-about-mint-s</a></h4><img title="Screenshot 2024-09-08 at 11.05.29 AM" src="https://img.gocollect.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJnb2NvbGxlY3QuaW1hZ2VzLnN0YWdlIiwia2V5IjoiYmxvZ1wvOGJmZmI2YjktOTEwMi00M2Q0LTljMmUtZTYwMWNjN2FiMzI3LnBuZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MTI4MH19fQ==" width="1128" height="606" data-mce-src="https://img.gocollect.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJnb2NvbGxlY3QuaW1hZ2VzLnN0YWdlIiwia2V5IjoiYmxvZ1wvOGJmZmI2YjktOTEwMi00M2Q0LTljMmUtZTYwMWNjN2FiMzI3LnBuZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MTI4MH19fQ=="> <a href="https://gocollect.com/blog/comparing-veve-fancy-mints-with-real-world-number-collecting" data-mce-href="https://gocollect.com/blog/comparing-veve-fancy-mints-with-real-world-number-collecting">https://gocollect.com/blog/comparing-veve-fancy-mints-with-real-world-number-collecting</a>Or take time to peruse "The Socials" where over 300,000 active fans now participate in sharing their great collections and finds. Here are a few recent examples I grabbed, but there are so many to choose from!<a href="https://x.com/sc0tchy68" data-as-button="false" data-mce-href="https://x.com/sc0tchy68"><img title="Screenshot 2024-09-08 at 12.03.42 PM" src="https://img.gocollect.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJnb2NvbGxlY3QuaW1hZ2VzLnN0YWdlIiwia2V5IjoiYmxvZ1wvOTEzODIzYzItMGIxOS00YmQyLTg2YWQtNTc4MDgzYmEwZTI3LnBuZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MTI4MH19fQ==" width="1918" height="674" data-mce-src="https://img.gocollect.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJnb2NvbGxlY3QuaW1hZ2VzLnN0YWdlIiwia2V5IjoiYmxvZ1wvOTEzODIzYzItMGIxOS00YmQyLTg2YWQtNTc4MDgzYmEwZTI3LnBuZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MTI4MH19fQ=="></a><img title="Screenshot 2024-09-08 at 12.08.54 PM" src="https://img.gocollect.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJnb2NvbGxlY3QuaW1hZ2VzLnN0YWdlIiwia2V5IjoiYmxvZ1wvNzNmM2FiNDEtNWRiYy00OGEzLWFjNGYtMGJmZGEwMjczMjJhLnBuZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MTI4MH19fQ==" width="2038" height="966" data-mce-src="https://img.gocollect.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJnb2NvbGxlY3QuaW1hZ2VzLnN0YWdlIiwia2V5IjoiYmxvZ1wvNzNmM2FiNDEtNWRiYy00OGEzLWFjNGYtMGJmZGEwMjczMjJhLnBuZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MTI4MH19fQ==">As our friend @MyCollectibles always ends his YouTube’s with, “Happy Collecting” - may the mint force be with you!&nbsp;Thanks for Reading!

MINTOLOGY - The Science & Fun Behind Fancy Number Digital Collecting!

<h1>The Ruby Slippers!</h1><h3>“You've always had the power my dear, you just had to learn it yourself.”&nbsp; Glinda, The Good Witch</h3><a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0032138/" data-mce-href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0032138/">The Wizard of Oz (1939)</a>, directed by Victor Fleming, remains one of cinema’s most beloved classics, with a timeless story that has captivated audiences for generations. This iconic film, based on L. Frank Baum's novel, tells the tale of Dorothy Gale (Judy Garland), a young girl from Kansas swept away to the mystical land of Oz. Accompanied by memorable characters like the Scarecrow (Ray Bolger), Tin Man (Jack Haley), and Cowardly Lion (Bert Lahr), Dorothy embarks on a journey to meet the Wizard and find her way back home. Since its release,&nbsp;The Wizard of Oz&nbsp;has drawn an estimated 1 billion views worldwide, further generating revenues well over $1 Billion through ticket sales, TV broadcasts, and merchandising.One of the most iconic items from the film is the pair of ruby slippers worn by Garland as Dorothy, which of course gave her magical powers to click her heels and return home to Kansas. These dazzling slippers are now back in the spotlight at Heritage Auctions in Dallas, with online bidding open until December 7.<img title="Screenshot 2024-11-07 at 12.20.42 PM" src="https://img.gocollect.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJnb2NvbGxlY3QuaW1hZ2VzLnN0YWdlIiwia2V5IjoiYmxvZ1wvZGM5ZDQ0MmItZWEwOS00YjBkLTk1NWMtYzVlYzQ5NzhiZTI0LnBuZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MTI4MH19fQ==" width="752" height="940" data-mce-src="https://img.gocollect.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJnb2NvbGxlY3QuaW1hZ2VzLnN0YWdlIiwia2V5IjoiYmxvZ1wvZGM5ZDQ0MmItZWEwOS00YjBkLTk1NWMtYzVlYzQ5NzhiZTI0LnBuZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MTI4MH19fQ==">The current bid (as of November 8th) is already a staggering $812,500 USD!See Details @&nbsp;<a href="https://entertainment.ha.com/itm/movie-tv-memorabilia/props/the-wizard-of-oz-mgm-1939-judy-garland-dorothy-gale-screen-matched-ruby-slippers/a/7388-89182.s?ic4=GalleryView-Thumbnail-071515%C2%A0" data-as-button="false" data-mce-href="https://entertainment.ha.com/itm/movie-tv-memorabilia/props/the-wizard-of-oz-mgm-1939-judy-garland-dorothy-gale-screen-matched-ruby-slippers/a/7388-89182.s?ic4=GalleryView-Thumbnail-071515%C2%A0">HERITAGE AUCTIONS</a>&nbsp;where many other Wizard of Oz items are also up for bids!<img title="Screenshot 2024-11-07 at 12.50.14 PM" src="https://img.gocollect.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJnb2NvbGxlY3QuaW1hZ2VzLnN0YWdlIiwia2V5IjoiYmxvZ1wvNjJmZjQzODMtNGM5OC00MTA2LWEyN2MtOTc4MjUwYTYzYjk2LnBuZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MTI4MH19fQ==" width="1090" height="512" data-mce-src="https://img.gocollect.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJnb2NvbGxlY3QuaW1hZ2VzLnN0YWdlIiwia2V5IjoiYmxvZ1wvNjJmZjQzODMtNGM5OC00MTA2LWEyN2MtOTc4MjUwYTYzYjk2LnBuZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MTI4MH19fQ==">Originally belonging to collector Michael Shaw, the slippers were stolen in 2005 from the Judy Garland Museum in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, and remained missing until the FBI recovered them in 2018. The slippers are one of only four pairs known to survive from the film's production.&nbsp; Read more details at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stolen-ruby-slippers-wizard-of-oz-minnesota-96f32011bac9d8b55432079c3f91f9d5?_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9MOXLCFBjVwHnND5Gpsdu49k1C0EaCOXE0uo9q1AIcTyGPqcqONd9vxRphrxE69FAExHErAd8qIDJBumS5bkSK90GbCg&amp;_hsmi=332750848" data-as-button="false" data-mce-href="https://apnews.com/article/stolen-ruby-slippers-wizard-of-oz-minnesota-96f32011bac9d8b55432079c3f91f9d5?_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9MOXLCFBjVwHnND5Gpsdu49k1C0EaCOXE0uo9q1AIcTyGPqcqONd9vxRphrxE69FAExHErAd8qIDJBumS5bkSK90GbCg&amp;_hsmi=332750848">AP NEWS</a><img title="Screenshot 2024-11-07 at 12.19.34 PM" src="https://img.gocollect.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJnb2NvbGxlY3QuaW1hZ2VzLnN0YWdlIiwia2V5IjoiYmxvZ1wvYjk1ZjljNjUtN2ZmYi00NThjLTg3ZjgtZjE0Y2JkYzM1OWQ2LnBuZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MTI4MH19fQ==" width="1282" height="898" data-mce-src="https://img.gocollect.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJnb2NvbGxlY3QuaW1hZ2VzLnN0YWdlIiwia2V5IjoiYmxvZ1wvYjk1ZjljNjUtN2ZmYi00NThjLTg3ZjgtZjE0Y2JkYzM1OWQ2LnBuZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MTI4MH19fQ=="> <a href="https://judygarlandmuseum.com/" data-as-button="false" data-mce-href="https://judygarlandmuseum.com/">The Judy Garland Museum</a>, which raises funds yearly at its Judy Garland Festival, is vying to reclaim the slippers, hoping to add them to its collection with financial support from the state of Minnesota. Alongside the slippers, other memorabilia from&nbsp;The Wizard of Oz—including Margaret Hamilton’s Wicked Witch of the West hat and Dorothy’s Kansas screen door—will also be auctioned, allowing fans a rare opportunity to own a piece of cinematic history.<img title="Screenshot 2024-11-07 at 12.47.49 PM" src="https://img.gocollect.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJnb2NvbGxlY3QuaW1hZ2VzLnN0YWdlIiwia2V5IjoiYmxvZ1wvYzFlN2Q2NjgtNjU5YS00ZjJiLTk0ZjctNzA4ZjA0MTYwODE1LnBuZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MTI4MH19fQ==" width="632" height="372" data-mce-src="https://img.gocollect.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJnb2NvbGxlY3QuaW1hZ2VzLnN0YWdlIiwia2V5IjoiYmxvZ1wvYzFlN2Q2NjgtNjU5YS00ZjJiLTk0ZjctNzA4ZjA0MTYwODE1LnBuZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MTI4MH19fQ==">Learn more about the state-wide effort to reclaim the slippers here:&nbsp;<a href="https://judygarlandmuseum.com/ruby-slippers/" data-mce-href="https://judygarlandmuseum.com/ruby-slippers/">https://judygarlandmuseum.com/ruby-slippers/</a>This could almost be as fun to see how this auction turns out as the show itself - good luck to all the bidders! Thanks for Reading

Dorothy's Ruby Slippers Listed at Heritage Auction!

Marvel Comics #1: An Out-of-Reach Fantasy for Most Collectors…Now Within Reach?!?

In the age of streaming, it’s easy to forget the impact physical media had on home entertainment. But before digital downloads and instant access, formats like VHS, Betamax, DVD, and Blu-ray ruled the industry. While the primary focus of these formats was to deliver movies and TV shows to end consumers, one unique aspect of home entertainment is the use of screeners.&nbsp;These promotional copies were sent to industry professionals, critics, and retail partners before the official release to drive buzz, facilitate feedback, and drive sales. Very few were produced compared to the commercial releases, and it was extremely frowned upon to share them with unauthorized people. While screeners are still in use by the Academy and other awards shows, older screeners from significant films have become coveted collector’s items in recent years.<h3>Demo Screeners</h3>There are two main categories of screeners that we see in the market today, each with its own purpose. The first type was sent to video retailers and were often referred to as “demo tapes” or “promo tapes”. These tapes, produced prior to the commercial release of a film, were sent directly to video stores by the studio or distributor so the store owner or manager could decide how many copies of the film to stock their shelves with. These tapes were meant to be a sales tool, so the back cover often features box office numbers, quotes from critics, or information on the marketability of a specific actor.<figure id="figure-q8xltrweghsm1i741m8" class=""><img id="q8xltrweghsm1i741m8" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2edCk4tmvRHEY7JZi631Z1o79k84Hrp8BOrXSymoN3LFt1pqk2wl5wy5VYfoIaHi.png" alt="Gladiator " title="Gladiator " class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2edCk4tmvRHEY7JZi631Z1o79k84Hrp8BOrXSymoN3LFt1pqk2wl5wy5VYfoIaHi.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;"></figure><a data-mce-href="https://www.encyclopedia.com/economics/economics-magazines/industry-profiles-video-tape-rental-0" href="https://www.encyclopedia.com/economics/economics-magazines/industry-profiles-video-tape-rental-0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">According to the Video Software Dealers Association</a>, there were approximately 31,000 video rental stores in 1990. That number dropped to 27,000 in 1996, and then continued to rapidly fall in the early 2000s as the industry consolidated and eventually moved to on demand video. Knowing this, we can assume that there were likely no more than 31,000 demo tapes produced for any given movie. And with millions of commercial copies produced on average for a single movie, these demo tapes begin to stand out as rare variants of the original release.Since demo tapes were not intended for sale, many of them were destroyed or sent back to the distributor after they were watched, making them even more scarce. It’s especially rare to be able to find a demo tape still sealed in the original manufacturer’s packaging because most retailers wanted the opportunity to watch the movie early and be able to make educated business decisions based on what they watched.&nbsp;<h3>Award Screeners</h3>The second type of screener was sent to voting members of an award show like the Academy Awards, Golden Globes, or Screen Actors Guild Awards and are often referred to as “award screeners” or “for your consideration tapes”. The tapes often say “For Your Consideration” on them and notate which award categories the film would like to be considered for. For example, an Academy Awards Screener might be looking for nominations in categories like Best Picture, Actor, Original Score, or Costume Design.<figure id="figure-rh0g8bd2zem1i755er" class=""><img id="rh0g8bd2zem1i755er" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2cWgGs90Rm6BCCblYUzB0eK6HxeTrzfy7dbiqEn0TA3GWeKvcBvlpMYBEyLlBwkx.png" alt="Lord of the Rings" title="Lord of the Rings" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2cWgGs90Rm6BCCblYUzB0eK6HxeTrzfy7dbiqEn0TA3GWeKvcBvlpMYBEyLlBwkx.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure>These special screening VHS tapes (and eventually DVDs) were mailed to the homes of voting members, sometimes even before the film was released in theaters, so it was a serious offense to share them with other people. Getting caught doing so could result in expulsion from the award organization or possibly even prosecution. In recent years, studios have even begun watermarking award screeners for each specific person they send it to so they know exactly who the offenders are.&nbsp; There’s actually a very interesting story to how award screeners became standard in the industry. It all started in 1986 when John Boorman, director of The Emerald Forest, worried that too few members of the Academy had seen his film and he wouldn’t get the votes he needed. So John<a data-mce-href="https://www.latimes.com/business/hollywood/la-fi-ct-oscar-screeners-20180301-story.html" href="https://www.latimes.com/business/hollywood/la-fi-ct-oscar-screeners-20180301-story.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> produced several hundred</a> screening VHS tapes of the film to be made available for free to members of the Academy at local video stores. He even took out ads in entertainment publications to let people in Hollywood know that the tapes were available at stores.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-plh2u28cuqm1i77k4b" class=""><img id="plh2u28cuqm1i77k4b" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1bQYSwyRULkQXwGN1jCnJdRHw89pvHqVpsypi6dr9KGqIdNJBePuws1My15sb0PG.png" alt="the emerald forest" title="the emerald forest" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1bQYSwyRULkQXwGN1jCnJdRHw89pvHqVpsypi6dr9KGqIdNJBePuws1My15sb0PG.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure>John’s stunt unfortunately did not work and The Emerald Forest received zero Oscar nominations. However, he basically invented the awards screener and started a massive tradition that still lives on to this day. Screener copies of The Emerald Forest can be identified by the “PROMOTIONAL USE ONLY NOT FOR RESALE” stamp on the back of the box. With only a few hundred produced and them being considered the first ever award screener, these tapes are extremely difficult to find. In the future, we believe these tapes will have the prestige, popularity, and scarcity to be considered grails for serious VHS collectors.We also view these award screeners as rare variants of the original film, with far fewer being produced than the commercial release. And since voters were obligated to watch the film (especially from home), the popular films are incredibly difficult to find still sealed today. We are still researching the exact numbers for how many award screeners were produced for each film, but we can make some educated guesses based on how many academy members there were in a given year.&nbsp;In 2003, the Academy said it mailed out nomination ballots to <a data-mce-href="https://www.cnn.com/2003/SHOWBIZ/Movies/12/30/oscars.reut/" href="https://www.cnn.com/2003/SHOWBIZ/Movies/12/30/oscars.reut/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">5,803 members</a>. So it’s safe to presume that there were no more than 5,803 screeners produced for films in 2003, especially since not every member receives screeners and not every member votes for every category. The Academy grew to <a data-mce-href="https://www.motionpictures.org/2018/01/meet-7258-members-academy-choose-oscar-winners-okay-not/" href="https://www.motionpictures.org/2018/01/meet-7258-members-academy-choose-oscar-winners-okay-not/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">7,258 members by 2018</a>, which gives us a pretty good ballpark for how many DVD screeners were produced in that time. We don't know how many academy members there were in the 80s and 90s, but the voting body has only grown over time, so we can assume there were probably no more than 5,000 produced for any film prior to the 2000s.&nbsp;<h3>The Collectibility of Screeners</h3>While many people don’t see the value in screeners, there are a ton of serious collectors who will pay big money for them, especially sealed. It’s ironic that a market has grown for these tapes, considering they were never intended to be sold in the first place. But I guess that’s how collecting goes – oftentimes the most valuable items were things that were never meant to be collectible.To give you an idea of what these screeners can sell for, here are few examples that have sold on Heritage over the last couple years:<ul><li><a data-mce-href="https://entertainment.ha.com/itm/movie-tv-memorabilia/memorabilia/it-canadian-full-length-vhs-screening-copy-1992-vga-85-nm-flatback-seal-rear-wb-logo-watermarks-warner-home-video/a/48151-19057.s?ic4=GalleryView-Thumbnail-071515" href="https://entertainment.ha.com/itm/movie-tv-memorabilia/memorabilia/it-canadian-full-length-vhs-screening-copy-1992-vga-85-nm-flatback-seal-rear-wb-logo-watermarks-warner-home-video/a/48151-19057.s?ic4=GalleryView-Thumbnail-071515" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A retailer screening copy of Steven King’s IT sold for $2,500</a></li><li><a data-mce-href="https://entertainment.ha.com/itm/movie-tv-memorabilia/memorabilia/terminator-2-judgment-day-widescreen-academy-screener-vhs-1991-vga-85-nm-slipcase-vertical-overlap-seal-live-home-video-watermark-/a/7325-38213.s?ic4=GalleryView-Thumbnail-071515" href="https://entertainment.ha.com/itm/movie-tv-memorabilia/memorabilia/terminator-2-judgment-day-widescreen-academy-screener-vhs-1991-vga-85-nm-slipcase-vertical-overlap-seal-live-home-video-watermark-/a/7325-38213.s?ic4=GalleryView-Thumbnail-071515" target="_blank" rel="noopener">An Academy screener of Terminator 2 sold for $1,618.75</a></li><li><a data-mce-href="https://entertainment.ha.com/itm/movie-tv-memorabilia/memorabilia/the-nightmare-before-christmas-screener-copy-vhs-1994-beckett-vhs-90-nm-and-seal-a-u-seal-grey-sticker-seal-touchstone-home/a/7299-38206.s?ic4=GalleryView-Thumbnail-071515" href="https://entertainment.ha.com/itm/movie-tv-memorabilia/memorabilia/the-nightmare-before-christmas-screener-copy-vhs-1994-beckett-vhs-90-nm-and-seal-a-u-seal-grey-sticker-seal-touchstone-home/a/7299-38206.s?ic4=GalleryView-Thumbnail-071515" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A retailer screening copy of The Nightmare Before Christmas sold for $1,250</a></li><li><a data-mce-href="https://entertainment.ha.com/itm/movie-tv-memorabilia/memorabilia/star-wars-episode-i-the-phantom-menace-academy-screener-vhs-2000-igs-box-9-mint-and-seal-8-nm-no-upc-no-wm-20th-century-fox/a/7299-38166.s?ic4=GalleryView-Thumbnail-071515" href="https://entertainment.ha.com/itm/movie-tv-memorabilia/memorabilia/star-wars-episode-i-the-phantom-menace-academy-screener-vhs-2000-igs-box-9-mint-and-seal-8-nm-no-upc-no-wm-20th-century-fox/a/7299-38166.s?ic4=GalleryView-Thumbnail-071515" target="_blank" rel="noopener">An Academy screener of Star Wars: The Phantom Menace sold for $1,250</a></li></ul>The VHS market is still maturing and there isn’t a lot of price discovery yet, so there’s ample opportunity to find good deals for screeners. We’re regularly able to find sealed screeners of popular movies on eBay for under $100, but sometimes we have to spend a little more to get something special like sealed Academy screeners for films like the Lion King, Harry Potter, or Spirited Away. While sealed is always going to be the best, we also buy CIB (complete in box) screeners for significant movies. There are so few sealed copies of these screeners still in existence, so sometimes the next best thing is to get a clean CIB copy.&nbsp;<h3>Conclusion</h3>In today’s digital landscape, it’s fascinating to see how screeners have transformed from simple promotional tools into highly sought-after collectibles. Their scarcity, combined with the nostalgia of the VHS and DVD eras, makes them a valuable part of film history. As collectors continue to recognize their significance, these screeners will likely remain a coveted piece of the home entertainment collecting market. The future of this market is bright, and we can’t wait to see how it grows!

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