Tomart's Price Guide to Worldwide Star Wars Collectibles is released

In 1998, Tomart released a special edition of their popular price guide. Rather than updating the prices or items listed however, Tomart added pages to the back of the guide, showcasing many previously unseen prototypes and unproduced concepts. Collectors were initially excited over this idea, despite the fact that many had just purchased the standard edition of the guide, however they soon learned that the cover price of this new edition would be $80. Thus, a controversy was born. Was this a fair price? Was Tomart trying to bleed every penny from collectors by releasing the special edition after the standard one? These questions and more were addressed in several lengthy usenet threads.

In the end, despite all the controversy, the hobby gained a great book that no collector should be without. Although the price may seem high to some, it has been the difinitive guide in the hobby since 1998.

"Tomart Ripp Off!!"
04/06/98: Collectors receive the announcement that the hardcover is being produced.

"New Tomart hardbound Star Wars Guide"
06/09/98: The hardcover is discussed again.

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