MARVEL SPOTLIGHT ON STAR-LORD ##6
Marvel Comics • Marvel Spotlight (Vol. 2)
Writer
Doug Moench
Interior Artist
Tom Sutton
Cover Artist
Chris Claremont (Layouts), Carmine Infantino (Pencils), Bob Wiacek (Inks)
Publication Date
May 1980
Cover Variant
UK Price Variant (12p)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
The storyline titled 'The Saga Begins!' explores the origin and early adventures of Peter Quill, also known as Star-Lord. It marks his first appearance in the Marvel Spotlight title as Marvel attempted to transition the character from black-and-white magazines to color comic formats.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine/Very Fine (CGC 7.0)
Condition Details
Moderate spine stress marks visible (some color-breaking). Minor blunting on the bottom right corner. Light surface wear on dark ink areas. The cover remains relatively flat with decent gloss, but displays characteristic wear for a non-bagged/boarded reader copy.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $25 - $40 / Graded (7.0): $60 - $85. (Note: UK variants can sometimes command a slight premium or discount depending on the specific collector market).
Recent Sales
High-grade 9.8 copies have sold for $250-$300. Recent mid-grade raw copies vary between $20 and $45 depending on the platform.
Grading Recommendation
In its current condition (approx 7.0), professional grading is likely not cost-effective as the grading fees would nearly equal the market value. It would be worth grading if it were 9.4 or higher.
Notable Features
First appearance of Star-Lord in a standard color comic book (previously appeared in Marvel Preview #4). UK 12p Price Variant. Iconic 'Saga Begins' cover. Features the Spider-Man head corner box logo.
Authentication Notes
The 12p UK price variant is authentic to the 1980 distribution era. Paper stock appears to be standard newsprint of the period. Ink saturation and registration on the red 'Star-Lord' logo are consistent with original Marvel production standards.