MARVEL TALES STARRING SPIDER-MAN ##181
Marvel Comics • Marvel Tales Vol. 2
Writer
Stan Lee
Interior Artist
Steve Ditko
Cover Artist
Gil Kane (Original art from Amazing Spider-Man #1)
Publication Date
November 1985
Cover Variant
Regular Direct Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
This issue is a reprint of The Amazing Spider-Man #1 (1963). It features Spider-Man's first encounter with the Fantastic Four as he attempts to join their team to earn a salary. It also features J. Jonah Jameson's first character arc and the introduction of his son, John Jameson.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine (CGC 6.0)
Condition Details
Visible spine stress marks with several minor color-breaking ticks. Bottom right corner shows blunting/rounding. Outer edges exhibit minor shelf wear. Possible light vertical stacking crease near the spine but cover remains flat.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5 - $15 | Graded (9.6+): $50 - $75
Recent Sales
Recent raw copies of Marvel Tales #181 typically sell for $3 to $12 depending on condition. High-grade slabbed copies occasionally reach $60+ but are uncommon for this specific issue number.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of CGC/CBCS grading (approx. $30-$40 + shipping) exceeds the current market value of the comic in this condition. This is a reprint issue and not a major key.
Notable Features
Reprint of the landmark Amazing Spider-Man #1. Features the Incredible Hulk, Thor, Iron Man, Captain America, and Giant-Man on the cover (a modified version of the ASM #1 cover art). Includes a UPC barcode identifying it as a Direct Market edition.
Authentication Notes
Authentic Marvel Copper Age publication. Standard newsprint interior pages with a semi-glossy cover. Staple placement and Ben-Day dot patterns consistent with 1985 printing technology.