The Amazing Spider-Man ##296
Marvel Comics • The Amazing Spider-Man Vol. 1
Writer
David Michelinie
Interior Artist
Alex Saviuk
Cover Artist
Todd McFarlane
Publication Date
January 1988
Cover Variant
Newsstand Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Part 1 of the 'Force of Arms' storyline. Doctor Octopus is released from a mental institution, claiming to be cured of his arachnophobia, but he quickly regains his mechanical arms and returns to a life of crime, leading to a confrontation with Spider-Man.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine/Very Fine (CGC 7.0)
Condition Details
Visible moderate spine stress and color-breaking ticks along the left edge. Minor corner blunting on the top and bottom right. Slight yellowing/tanning visible on the white areas of the cover due to age. Minor surface wear and ink rubbing appears present.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $15 - $25; Graded (9.0+): $60 - $100
Recent Sales
Recent raw copies in similar mid-to-high grade condition have sold between $12 and $30 on secondary markets. 9.8 graded copies occasionally reach $150+.
Grading Recommendation
Generally not recommended for professional grading unless the interior is pristine and the book can be pressed to a 9.4 or higher. The current visible spine ticks may limit the grade to a 7.0-8.0 range, where the cost of grading may exceed the value added.
Notable Features
Early Todd McFarlane cover art (pre-dates his definitive interior run beginning in #298). Features Doctor Octopus. Newsstand Edition with barcode UPC.
Authentication Notes
Standard 1980s newsstand paper stock; colors appear consistent with period-accurate Ben-Day dots and ink saturation. No signs of restoration or reproduction detected.