Remarqued Comics Guide

A remarque is an original sketch added by an artist to a comic, graphic novel, or print during a signing. Unlike a simple signature, a remarque transforms a mass-produced object into a unique piece of original art. Remarqued comics command the highest premiums in the signed comics market.

What Makes a Good Remarque

The best remarques feature the artist’s signature character or style. A Mike Mignola Hellboy head sketch on a signed Hellboy volume. A Frank Miller Batman sketch on The Dark Knight Returns. A Fiona Staples Alana sketch on a Saga volume. These are miniature original artworks that happen to be attached to a book.

Market Values

Remarques typically add $50–$500+ above a standard signature, depending on the artist’s original art market and the complexity of the sketch. A simple head sketch is worth less than a detailed multi-character scene. Artists who rarely do remarques command higher premiums.

Commissioning Remarques

Most remarques are obtained at convention signings. Some artists offer remarques for an additional fee ($20–$200+). Others refuse remarques entirely. The key is knowing which artists do them and attending the right events.

Authentication

Remarques on CGC Signature Series comics are verified as authentic. Non-CGC remarques rely on provenance — convention receipts, photographs of the signing, and the artist’s distinctive style. Forgery of remarques is rare given the difficulty of imitating an artist’s hand.