Marvel Team-Up Featuring Spider-Man and Doctor Strange ##21
Marvel Comics Group • Marvel Team-Up Vol. 1
Writer
Len Wein
Interior Artist
Sal Buscema
Cover Artist
Gil Kane
Publication Date
May 1974
Cover Variant
Regular/Direct Edition (35-cent price variant era, but this is a standard 25-cent copy)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Story titled 'The Spider and the Sorcerer!' featuring Spider-Man and Doctor Strange. The duo battles the sorcerer Xandu who is attempting to use the Crystal of Kadavus to restore his love, Melinda. This issue explores mystical themes and high-action choreography between Spidey's agility and Strange's magic.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine/Very Fine (CGC 7.0)
Condition Details
Moderate spine stress with color-breaking ticks. Visible blunting on the bottom-right corner. Slight surface wear and minor edge rubbing. The cover retains good gloss and color vibrancy, but general shelf wear suggests a mid-to-high grade.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $25 - $40 | Graded (CGC 7.0): $60 - $85
Recent Sales
Recent sales for raw copies in similar condition average around $30. CGC 9.6+ copies can reach $250+, but mid-grade copies remain steady in the $50-$80 range.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading unless for personal collection. The cost of grading (shipment, fees, and pressing) would likely exceed the immediate market value gain for a 7.0 grade copy.
Notable Features
Features Xandu the Unbeatable. Iconic Gil Kane cover art. Bronze Age Marvel issue with standard 25-cent price point.
Authentication Notes
The item appears to be an authentic 1974 original. The paper aging (slight off-white appearance) and ink registration are consistent with Marvel's mid-70s production standards.