The Amazing Spider-Man ##226
Marvel Comics • The Amazing Spider-Man Vol. 1
Writer
Roger Stern
Interior Artist
John Romita Jr.
Cover Artist
Frank Miller
Publication Date
March 1982
Cover Variant
Regular (Direct Edition - Spider-Man head in UPC box)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Part one of a two-part story involving the return of the Black Cat (Felicia Hardy). Felicia escapes from a mental institution, and Spider-Man must determine if she has really reformed or is returning to her life of crime.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine- (CGC 7.5)
Condition Details
Visible spine ticks along the left edge, several of which break color. Minor blunting on the top right corner. Very slight edge wear visible on the bottom right. The cover retains good gloss and color vibrancy, but the spine stress limits it from higher NM grades.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $25 - $40 | Graded (CGC 7.5): $60 - $80 | Graded (CGC 9.0+): $120+
Recent Sales
Recent sales for raw copies in mid-to-high grade average around $30. CGC 9.8 copies have sold for over $400, while 9.0 copies hover around $100.
Grading Recommendation
In its current raw state (estimated 7.5), professional grading may not yield a significant profit after fees. It is generally a 'keep raw' candidate unless it is a high-grade 9.6 or 9.8 candidate. A clean and press might improve the spine slightly but won't fix color-breaking ticks.
Notable Features
Early appearance of Black Cat; Iconic cover art by Frank Miller; Direct Edition (indicated by the Spider-Man face in the UPC box).
Authentication Notes
Appears to be an authentic 1982 newsprint original. Color registration is correct for the era, and the 'Direct Edition' logo box shows correct line weight and placement.