Archie Comics has agreed to a partnership with Macroverse to reproduce some of its golden age comics. Released as part of its Authentic Edition facsimiles, which are recreations of the originals down to their paper and printed detail, the process will use similar period-correct techniques reproducing the comic as if it were fresh on the newsstand.
The joint venture will be reprinting ten key Archie titles (first appearance of Archie, Betty, Veronica, Sabrina, etc.) and is available on Kickstarter starting on December 17th. It will be a part of Macroverse’s continued high-end reproductions of key titles in an Authentic Editions program, which has already recreated some classic comics by EC using the same methods.
“Being able to work with Archie Comics to preserve and present these classic stories is an exciting milestone for Macroverse,” said Eben Matthews, Macroverse Co-Founder/CEO. “Archie Comics has long been a mirror of American culture, resonating across generations. With Authentic Editions, we’re bringing Archie’s earliest adventures back to life, celebrating the artistry and storytelling that laid the foundation for a pop culture phenomenon.”
“Our commitment to detail with Authentic Editions borders on obsession,” said Macroverse Head of Publishing Adam Fortier. “From faithfully preserving the original cover prices and vintage ads to meticulously maintaining the Golden Age coloring, paper stock, and printing techniques, we leave no stone unturned. Every element is crafted to deliver the most authentic experience possible, allowing collectors and fans to hold a piece of history in their hands exactly as it was originally meant to be seen and experienced. It’s a labor of love and respect for the artistry and craftsmanship of these timeless comics.”
Matthews added, “This is an exciting opportunity to connect timeless classics with today’s fans, honoring Archie’s incredible legacy.”
Archie is the comics industry’s longest-running independent publisher. Launched in 1939 with a line of action and superhero comics that grew to include other genres, the line is most famously associated with the teen humor of Archie Andrews as a backup feature in PEP COMICS #22. That debut, by Vic Bloom and Bob Montana, was an instant success, spurring the creation of dozens of iconic characters populating the small town of Riverdale including Veronica Lodge in PEP #26, and the launch of Archie’s own series with ARCHIE COMICS #1.
These new to release Authentic Editions are not only faithful page-by-page reprints; they’re produced with the same materials and technology used at the time of first publication, giving collectors a way to own essential comic book milestones as close to the originals.
The crowdfund campaign offers several rewards to backers, including the “Archie Comics Tip-Top 10” collection of core titles, special variants with cover effects, additional titles to be announced as stretch goals when the campaign reaches certain benchmarks, and collectible storage cases with “Team Betty” or “Team Veronica” artwork options (referring to the long-running rivalry for Archie’s affections between the two characters).
The remaining “Tip-Top 10” titles are known for their iconic covers and character introductions: PEP COMICS #36; ARCHIE COMICS #2, #7, and #13; BETTY AND VERONICA #1 and #3; and ARCHIE’S MAD HOUSE #22 featuring the first appearance of Sabrina the Teenage Witch.
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