MARVEL TALES FEATURING SPIDER-MAN #227
Marvel Comics • Marvel Tales Vol. 2
Writer
Bill Mantlo
Interior Artist
Sal Buscema
Cover Artist
Todd McFarlane
Publication Date
September 1989
Cover Variant
Direct Edition (UPC barcode present)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Reprints the story from Spectacular Spider-Man #17. Spider-Man teams up with the mutant Iceman (Bobby Drake) to battle the character known as Lightmaster. This issue focuses on the dynamic between the two heroes and Lightmaster's attempt to use Iceman's powers to maintain his physical form.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine (CGC 6.0)
Condition Details
Visible spine stress marks and color-breaking ticks on the left edge. Moderate corner blunting on the top and bottom right. Slight surface wear visible in the yellow background area. General shelf wear along the edges.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5 - $15 | Graded (9.6+): $45 - $65
Recent Sales
Raw copies in similar condition typically sell for $5 to $8 on secondary markets. High-grade slabbed copies see low volume but remain under $70.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The grading fees and shipping costs would likely exceed the market value of the book in this condition (estimated mid-range grade). Best kept in a bag and board as a reader or collector's copy.
Notable Features
Features a cover by legendary artist Todd McFarlane. This is a reprint series ('Marvel Tales' primarily reprinted Silver and Bronze Age Spider-Man stories). Noted for the iconic 1980s McFarlane art style.
Authentication Notes
Appearance matches standard 1989 Marvel copper age production standards. Paper stock should be non-glossy newsprint with slight off-white color. UPC code 071486024760 is consistent with Marvel Direct editions of this period.