The Amazing Spider-Man ##222
Marvel Comics • The Amazing Spider-Man Vol. 1
Writer
Bill Mantlo
Interior Artist
Bob Layton
Cover Artist
Bob Layton
Publication Date
November 1981
Cover Variant
Regular/Direct Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Spider-Man vs. Speed Demon. This issue features the first appearance of Speed Demon (formerly known as The Whizzer of the Squadron Sinister). Spider-Man encounters the fast-talking thief while investigating a series of robberies.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine/Very Fine (CGC 7.0)
Condition Details
Visible spine stress ticks (some color-breaking), minor corner blunting on the top right, slight edge wear along the right-hand margin, and a small crease on the bottom right corner. Presence of a UPC barcode indicates a Direct/Newsstand variant (Standard Direct).
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $10 - $20; Graded (9.6+): $80 - $120
Recent Sales
Recent raw copies in similar mid-to-high grade have sold for $12 - $18. NM (9.4+) copies generally reach $40+ raw.
Grading Recommendation
Not highly recommended for grading unless it were in 9.6-9.8 condition. As a 7.0/7.5, the grading fees would likely exceed the market value of the slabbed book.
Notable Features
First appearance of Speed Demon. Iconic 'motion' cover by Bob Layton. Features a Columbia Ten-Speed bicycle advertisement banner across the top.
Authentication Notes
Standard 1980s Marvel newsprint and glossy cover stock. Colors appear correct for the era's printing process with no signs of reproduction.