Heritage Auctions Launches John Cassaday Collection, To Benefit His Family

Legendary artist John Cassaday passed away, suddenly and shockingly, a little over a year ago at age 52. Now, as shared by Cassaday’s friend and Dynamite publisher Nick Barrucci, Heritage Auctions has launched the John Cassaday Collection, with proceeds set to benefit Cassaday’s sister Robin, his partner Tara, and his art dealer, Albert Moy.

“This is an announcement that is very personal to me,” Barrucci explained in a letter to press. “As many know, John Cassaday was one of my best friends.  He was one of the best people I knew.  Most of the comics world knows his creativity and art, which stands on its own.  Others were as fortunate as myself to have been friends with John, and he was a shining light as a person as well as an artist.  And for those who did not know him personally, he blessed the industry with his art, with the passion he brought to the comics he worked on.  And his art will keep his flame alive forever.”

Included in the auction is the cover to Planetary #1, something that Cassaday previously turned down all offers for. In addition, there are multiple other covers and pages from the storied Wildstorm issue, as well as art from Marvel, DC, Dynamite, and more — ranging from titles including Captain America and Astonishing X-Men, to Lone Ranger and Buck Rogers.

Adding to the benefit auction are pieces from Cassaday’s personal collection, including a Marvel Fanfare cover by Michael Golden, New Frontier by Darwyn Cooke, Captain America by Jack Kirby, and others. And also, other artists have donated art to the collection, including Jim Lee, Liam Sharp, Paul Pope, and more.

The best part? Heritage Auctions is giving what is called the “hammer price” to Cassaday’s family — meaning they’re only keeping the Buyer’s premium, and not a percentage of the sale as usual.

You can check out the full rundown of the pieces in the auction, which is available to bid on until November 6, over at Heritage Auctions.

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