Origins and General Information
ZOMG! SO MUCH STUFF! Bankston's Comics and Collectibles was established in 1985 by brothers Brad and Brent Bankston. Originally, the store began as Bankston's Used Books as a section of their parents' tire and appliance business. Mainly hardcover and paperback books were sold, but the brothers quickly realized that the collectibles industry was poised to boom. Eventually, they began carrying comic books and sports cards, as well as action figures and other items of collector interest as time passed.
Bankston's would become a prominent figure in keeping comics alive in Waco, and business did so well that the brothers expanded their business into Austin, TX with Austin Books & Comics. Brad Bankston overlooks operations of Austin Books, while Brent manages Bankston's in Waco.
With the boom of comic book-influenced films, Bankston's typically features a booth at the local theaters with memorabilia from the movie that is premiering. Previous instances include the release of X-Men, X-Men 2, Iron Man, Spider-Man, Spider-Man 2, Spider-Man 3,
Bankston's is also a yearly participant in Free Comic Book Day, allowing any patrons to pick up any three of the Gold and Silver comics that are released on the day.
Comic Books
Featuring 8-foot cabinetry, Bankston's carries all of the latest ongoing series from the hottest and biggest names in the industry, as well as another section for independent releases from smaller companies. A separate section of cabinetry is dedicated to trade paperbacks and hardcovers. If something is not available, it can be ordered for delivery.
Sports Memorabilia
Behind the counter, as well as in other portions of the store, customers can find a large amount of collector's items associated to various sports. This ranges from a massive assortment of trading cards dating all the way back to Mickey Mantle, special framed moments (like Nolan Ryan punching out Robin Ventura on the mound in 1993), and other signed and autographed memorabilia.
Action Figures
A back area of the store features a large array of collectible action figures from all eras, including Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, rare Nightmare Before Christmas figures, and even more obscure figures.
Trading Card Games
Ranging from Magic The Gathering to Yu-gi-oh to World of Warcraft, Bankston's offers all the latest booster packs and starter decks for the hottest trading card games around. Every Saturday morning, they host special time in the store specifically for playing trading card games.
eBay Auctions
Aside from offering items in-store, Bankston's also offers the ability to purchase items
via eBay. These items typically fall into the category of sports memorabilia, although a large variety are available.
In-Store Signings
From time to time, Bankston's will feature in-store signings with comic writers, sports figures, etc. Previous signings include the likes of Matt Sturges (
Fables).
Comic Vine Ambassadors
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