Leading up to Comic-Con@Home, Scoop talked with a few dealers and auction houses, including Alex Winter of Hake’s Auctions. He provided an update on Hake’s auction schedule and how COVID-19 has impacted the auction house, as well as his expectations for the next Comic-Con.

Scoop: Since you normally set up at Comic-Con, are you creating any special events or sales in lieu of the live event? If so, what are your plans?
Alex Winter (AW): We are just conducting auctions as we normally would. We recently had internet exclusive auctions for comic book and sports memorabilia and upcoming is one for action figures (runs July 27-August 6). That will be followed by our next premier auction which goes online September 1 and closes September 23-24.

Scoop: What do you expect to see at next year’s Comic-Con since the live convention was cancelled this year?
AW: I expect even bigger and more enthusiastic crowds. I think the pause we are all taking will only make the return of such things as comic cons all that much more sweeter upon their return.

Scoop: COVID-19 has had a significant impact on all aspects of our industry. How has it impacted your company?
AW: We had a period where our doors were shuttered as per Governor Wolf of Pennsylvania, but we continued to work from home as best we could. Once we were able to return to the office, it has been full steam ahead conducting auctions, which have been met with great success. The auction world has thrived during these times where staying at home is necessary and the distraction of auctions and adding to your collections is a welcomed diversion. Many of us have not had the luxury of spending so much time with and around our cherished items, and we are now making up for lost time.

Scoop: As someone who works in the comics and collecting industry, what do you anticipate seeing in the market in the near future and long-term?
AW: The market is as strong and robust as ever. Every week there is a new auction record set for something. Collectors continue to find solace in their pursuit for that something special they have long coveted.