There’s something undeniably cool about holding a signed comic book. It’s like shaking hands with history—inked proof that your favorite artist or writer touched this very copy. And for collectors? Autographs are the cherry on top of an already valuable collectible.

But with great value comes great… forgeries. The comic world is full of fake signatures, sketchy COAs, and well-meaning fans who scribbled a name on their comic thinking it’d add value (spoiler: it doesn’t always). Whether you're a seasoned collector or just snagged your first signed Spidey book on eBay, this guide will show you:

• The top 10 most valuable comic book autographs

• How to spot a fake signature

• Where to buy safely online

• And how to protect your signed comics like a pro

Let’s dive into the world of ink, icons, and imposters.

💰 Top 10 Most Valuable Comic Book Signatures

These signatures consistently fetch top dollar in the comic market, especially when paired with key issues or high-grade books.

1. Stan Lee

• 🖊️ Known for: Co-creating the Marvel Universe

• 💵 Value: $300–$3,000+ (depending on book & grading)

• 🔥 Hot pick: Amazing Fantasy #15 with Stan’s signature can top $30,000

2. Jack Kirby

• 🖊️ Known for: Co-creating X-Men, Fantastic Four, Thor, and more

• 💵 Value: $500–$5,000+

• 💎 Rare find: Kirby-signed Fantastic Four #1 is grail-tier

3. Steve Ditko

• 🖊️ Known for: Co-creating Spider-Man and Doctor Strange

• 💵 Value: $1,000+ (very rare—he avoided signings)

• 🚫 Often faked due to scarcity

4. Todd McFarlane

• 🖊️ Known for: Spawn, Spider-Man, founder of Image Comics

• 💵 Value: $100–$1,200+

• ✨ Bonus: McFarlane sketch + sig? Skyrocket potential.

5. Frank Miller

• 🖊️ Known for: The Dark Knight Returns, Sin City

• 💵 Value: $150–$1,500+

• 📈 His signatures on early work like Daredevil are climbing in value

6. Alan Moore

• 🖊️ Known for: Watchmen, V for Vendetta, Swamp Thing

• 💵 Value: $500+ (Moore avoids public signings now)

• 🕵️ Watch for fakes—his sig is elusive

7. Jim Lee

• 🖊️ Known for: X-Men, Batman: Hush

• 💵 Value: $75–$500+

• 🔄 Common at signings, but still in high demand

8. Kevin Eastman & Peter Laird

• 🖊️ Known for: Co-creators of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

• 💵 Value: $200–$2,000+ (dual-signed TMNT #1? Take our money.)

9. Bill Finger

• 🖊️ Known for: Co-creator of Batman (finally recognized!)

• 💵 Value: Incredibly rare—only a few exist

• 🦇 Any signature from Finger is historical gold

10. Bob Kane

• 🖊️ Known for: Originally credited as Batman’s creator

• 💵 Value: $300–$2,500+

• 📜 Books signed by both Kane and Finger? Legendary.

🔍 Real vs. Fake: How to Spot a Comic Signature Scam

Unfortunately, the comic book world is crawling with fake signatures. Here’s how to spot them:

🚩 Red Flags:

• Inconsistent ink flow (especially sharpie that stops mid-line)

• Perfectly placed sigs in unrealistic locations (like inside back covers)

• Suspicious COAs from no-name companies or individuals

• No photos or proof of signing

• Low prices that feel too good to be true

✅ Green Flags:

• CGC Signature Series label (yellow label = witnessed by CGC)

• CBCS Authentic Signature Program (also very trustworthy)

• WestcoastCOA or other reputable COA providers

• Photographic evidence of signing

• Consistent signature style compared to verified examples

✍️ Need help checking authenticity? Reach out to us—we live for this stuff.

🛒 Where to Buy Signed Comics (Without Getting Burned)

Signed comics are everywhere, but not all sellers are created equal. Here’s where to hunt and what to watch for.

Best Places to Buy:

• eBay – Amazing finds if you vet the sellers and signatures

• Heritage Auctions – High-end, graded pieces

• Certified Guaranty Company (CGC) & CBCS Marketplace

• Comic Conventions – Meet the artist in person (bring your COA!)

🎯 Looking for current eBay deals? Check out these picks:
🔥 Signed Todd McFarlane Spider-Man – CGC Signature Series
🦇 Batman #404 Signed by Frank Miller – CGC 9.8

(Links will earn a commission at no cost to you—thank you for supporting the site!)

🛡️ How to Protect Your Signed Comics

A signature adds value—if it’s protected properly. Here’s how to keep it safe:

Signature Preservation Tips:

• Use Mylar bags instead of poly—clearer and more protective

• Avoid rubbing or stacking—signatures can smear

• Store flat or upright in a cool, dry, dark place

• Consider grading high-value signed comics with CGC/CBCS

• Frame with UV protection if displaying (sunlight = fade city)

• More detailed article at Medium.com or our other article here

📉 What Hurts the Value of a Signed Comic?

Not all signatures boost value. These do the opposite:

• Signed in the wrong spot (like over key art or small print)

• Signed by non-key contributors (unless it's part of a complete creative team)

• Smudged, fading, or sloppy signatures

• Fake or unverified autographs

• Personalized signatures (e.g., “To Jimmy – Stan Lee”)

Personalized isn’t always bad—but it narrows your buyer pool.

🤯 Real Stories: The Best (and Worst) Signed Comic Purchases

Best: A collector snagged a Spawn #1 signed by Todd McFarlane, complete with CGC Signature Series label, for just $125 on eBay. Today, it’s worth over $400.

Worst: A fan paid $500 for a “Stan Lee-signed” Amazing Spider-Man #300—turns out the seller traced the signature using a stencil. No COA, no refund, no bueno.

Lesson? Buy smart. Ask questions. And always verify.

💬 Final Thoughts: Signatures Are the Soul of a Comic Collection

A signed comic tells a story far beyond its panels. It marks a moment in time when fan and creator connected—even if by mail, con line, or CGC witness.

But like any collectible, the signature has to be real. Learn what to look for, protect your investments, and when in doubt—hit us up at WestcoastCOA.com.

And if you want hot leads on real signed comics, collector tips, and underpriced grails…

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