Peter Parker, The Spectacular Spider-Man ##93
Marvel Comics • Spectacular Spider-Man Vol. 1
Writer
Al Milgrom
Interior Artist
Al Milgrom
Cover Artist
Al Milgrom
Publication Date
August 1984
Cover Variant
Direct Edition (Spider-Man head in UPC box)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Spider-Man is wearing his iconic black alien costume (later revealed to be the Venom symbiote). The story features The Answer making his first full appearance and a confrontation involving the Black Cat and Kingpin's henchmen.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine / Near Mint (CGC 9.0)
Condition Details
Moderate spine stress marks visible on the left edge. The top left corner shows slight blunting. There is a small indentation/pressable crease near the top edge above the 'AR' in Spectacular. Overall colors are vibrant and cover gloss appears high.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $20.00 - $35.00; Graded (9.8): $120.00 - $160.00
Recent Sales
Recent raw sales for mid-to-high grade copies range from $15 to $40. Sold listings for CGC 9.8 copies have recently fluctuated between $130 and $180 depending on the auction platform.
Grading Recommendation
Only worth grading if it can achieve a 9.8 after a professional press and clean. At its current estimated grade of 9.0, the cost of grading may exceed the value added. A 'Press and Clean' would likely improve this copy to a 9.4 or higher.
Notable Features
Early appearance of Spider-Man in the Black Suit (Symbiote). First full appearance of The Answer (Aaron Nicholson). Classic bronze age era Marvel cover with the 'Direct Edition' Spider-Man graphic in the UPC area.
Authentication Notes
The item appears to be an authentic 1984 newsprint-era comic. Staple placement is correct, color registration in the 'Spider-Man' logo is consistent with original printing, and the paper age (slight off-white tint) is appropriate for the period.