A convention exclusive is a trading-card variant, action figure, signed comic or other collectible released only at a specific in-person event — typically a major comic, card or hobby convention. Convention exclusives are usually produced in limited print runs, individually numbered or stamped, and distributed to attendees through booth purchase, panel attendance or organised-play participation.

The format is most associated with San Diego Comic-Con, New York Comic-Con, Worlds and major Pokémon and Magic events. Convention exclusives often carry a strong secondary-market premium because the available supply is fixed at the event and never reissued. Authentication is straightforward when the item is sealed in original convention packaging; loose convention exclusives are harder to verify and sometimes counterfeited.

Beyond the cards and comics released exclusively at conventions, the convention-exclusive category includes variant covers, limited prints, signed editions, and sometimes complete special-edition books. Distribution windows are narrow and resale prices typically settle well above original convention pricing once the event ends. Authenticity of convention exclusives is generally easier to verify than ordinary collectables because distribution channels are documented. See our cosplay entry for the parallel convention culture and our events index for upcoming gatherings.