Back in the 40s and through to the 70s gold had a very low price. For what you would have spent on 3500 comics (I know thats a lot for a kid) you could have bought an ounce of gold (price varied from $35 to $38) which today would fetch $1400+. But the $0.10 comics would be worth as much as $18000 if they are still in something resembling new condition. But theres a reason they are worth so much. Gold doesnt change much but comics age. I dont know anyone that has kept comics around for more than a few years.