Keeping track of all the variations and special editions released has turned into a pastime in and of itself for genuine Akira manga collectors. Over the years, there have been countless limited editions, unique covers, and specialty prints in addition to the common standard editions.
Some of the most remarkable collector’s items are:
- The “Akira Club” art book, containing design sketches, alternate covers, and commentaries from Otomo himself.
- Various anniversary editions released for the 10th, 20th, 25th… Until Akira 30th anniversary edition so far.
- Limited edition box sets with exclusive artwork or supplementary materials.
- The Marvel/Epic “Graphitti Designs” limited edition hardcovers from the early 1990s. It consists of the original 38 chapters comic book issues compiled in a very rare hardcover edition.
- The UK magazine Manga Mania was one of the first to feature a serialized Akira manga in Europe, from 1993. In this release, Dave Hughes and Lee Brimmicombe-Wood examine the film’s popularity following its home video release, including many behind-the-scenes images.
- Special mention to the original Japanese “Kaba” (hippopotamus) Otomo’s artwork book—named for its distinctive cover design.
The value of these collector’s items has increased dramatically over the years. Complete sets of the original Epic Comics colorized issues in mint condition have sold for thousands of dollars, while rare Japanese editions can command premium prices from dedicated collectors.
