As PopCultHQ looks to expand our coverage with all things associated with the comic book industry, it only seemed appropriate to look at Local Comic Shops (LCS). Not only do we #SupportIndieComics, but we most definitely #SupportLCS. The brick-and-mortar establishments are an integral component of the comic book industry. Run by hard-working individuals, it’s these shops and retailers who offer what online stores don’t – a personal experience, true customer service, and often some gems which online retailers may not carry or keep in-stock.
<Check out PopCultHQ’s LCS Spotlight: DREAMWELL COMICS – Carson City, NV>
Gone are the days of finding comic books on spinner racks in mini-marts and on newsstands (though Alterna Comics is certainly working towards changing that). The biggest detriment of losing those additional locations is that physical comic books are now not as prevalent and harder to find in person. And given the current state of the entertainment industry, primarily in films and television, superheroes and comic book-related or based properties are at an all-time high. But when a kid goes and sees Guardians of the Galaxy or is a fan of The CW’s Supergirl, there’s a good chance they don’t even realize these characters, and often many of the storylines, come straight outta Compton comic books.
With that being said, we at PopCultHQ will begin a new feature – PopCultHQ’s LCS Spotlight. Our hope is that this will encourage people to check out some retailers, some of which they may not have known, see all the aspects which a comic shop can provide (that may not be found elsewhere), and to get kids and new readers/collectors into these locations. Free Comic Book Day and Halloween ComicFest are great events in bringing fans into stores, but is that enough? It almost feels like an Easter and Christmas deal.
Today we want to spotlight a comic book retailer who we visited during our visit to Seattle for Emerald City Comicon…Ancient Comics.
Jeff Hicks has been serving the city of Burien, WA (a few short miles south of downtown Seattle) for nearly three decades. His location has changed a few times, but Jeff has remained true to the area and the many regulars he has had over the years. Count me as one of them. I first met Jeff Hicks when his store was a few blocks north of its present location back in the mid-1990s. Since then, he has had to relocate his store a few times for various reasons but he never went far. In fact, he has outlasted any comic shop in close proximity, even larger stores with more to offer. How has he endured and become synonymous with Burien and comics? It’s all about what he has to offer.
And check out some of his recent acquisitions from earlier this year. Jeff even brought them out while I visited him to show me just how beautiful these issues look. All high-grade!
Jeff does not, and will not, carry any new releases. If you ever really want to know, he’ll certainly express his feelings on Diamond Comic Distributors. What you will find is a store filled with impressive back issues, rare Golden and Silver Age comics, and some great deals you won’t find anywhere else. He maintains his 25¢-bins regularly (and he has well over 20 long boxes of quarter comics) and are often filled with many surprise finds and comics you’d be hard-pressed to find in most stores’ dollar bins. His back issues are 50% off guide, always has specials on his large assortment of TPBs and HCs, and more than likely some comics on the wall or in his case that you just never get to see in person. Plus, Hicks buys comics more often than probably any retailer you know. Large collections come his way too many times to count and keep his store stocked and filled.
Here’s your look at Ancient Comics in Burien, WA!
And if you happen to be a Magic: The Gathering player, he has quite the selection of the hot cards people want (many not pictured). You can even bring a deck you’ve built and he’s willing to thump you down. But after a couple of games, he may have to take a beatdown break.
So if you are in or around the great Seattle area, visit Ancient Comics in Burien, WA. Open 7 days a week from 10am-8pm (often outside those times, as well). Be sure to bring a large, strong bag, or better yet a box, because with the selection and prices, you’ll leave with a fatty stack of comics!
All pertinent info can be found below…
Here’s a video from owner Jeff Hicks…
Ancient Comics
(206) 243-2002
14439 Ambaum Blvd SW
Burien, WA 98166
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STORE HOURS
Monday – 10:00am to 8:00pm
Tuesday – 10:00am to 8:00pm
Wednesday – 10:00am to 8:00pm
Thursday – 10:00am to 8:00pm
Friday – 10:00am to 8:00pm
Saturday – 10:00am to 8:00pm
Sunday – 10:00am to 8:00pm
