THE SPECTACULAR SPIDER-MAN ##157
Marvel Comics • The Spectacular Spider-Man Vol. 1
Writer
Gerry Conway
Interior Artist
Sal Buscema
Cover Artist
Sal Buscema
Publication Date
November 1989
Cover Variant
Direct Edition (Spider-Man head UPC replacement)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Part 2 of the 'Acts of Vengeance' tie-in. Spider-Man faces off against Electro and a robot duplicate of himself. The story focuses on Spider-Man's struggle after recently acquiring cosmic powers (Captain Universe powers) during this crossover event.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine/Near Mint (CGC 9.0)
Condition Details
Minor spine stress visible along the left edge. Slight blunting on the bottom left corner. Some light surface wear and potential edge softening on the top right. Overall very clean and flat with good color vibrancy.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5.00 - $12.00; Graded (CGC 9.8): $60.00 - $80.00
Recent Sales
Raw copies in similar condition typically sell for $5 to $10 on eBay. High-grade CGC 9.8 copies have recently sold in the $70 range.
Grading Recommendation
Generally not recommended for professional grading unless a flawless 9.8 is guaranteed. The cost of grading (approx. $25-$40) often exceeds the market value of a 9.0-9.4 copy for this specific issue.
Notable Features
Acts of Vengeance tie-in; features Electro; includes Spider-Man with Captain Universe powers. This is the Direct Edition (distinguishable by the Spider-man head icon in the UPC box).
Authentication Notes
Consistent with 1989 Marvel production. Newsprint interior with glossy cover stock. The Spider-Man head UPC box is a standard indicator of the Direct Market version of this era.