Spider-Man ##56
Marvel Comics • Spider-Man Vol. 1 (1990 Series)
Writer
Howard Mackie
Interior Artist
Tom Lyle
Cover Artist
Tom Lyle
Publication Date
March 1995
Cover Variant
Regular (Direct Edition)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Part 3 of 3 of the 'Smoke and Mirrors' crossover arc. The storyline features Scarlet Spider (Ben Reilly) and Peter Parker facing off against The Jackal. The issue features the shocking 'return' of Gwen Stacy, who is later revealed to be a clone.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine/Near Mint (CGC 9.0)
Condition Details
The cover shows high gloss with deep ink density. There is slight blunting on the top and bottom left spine corners. A few micro-stress lines/ticks are visible along the spine, particularly near the top staple. Edges appear sharp, though there is a tiny amount of white showing near the top edge. No significant color-breaking creases are visible on the front.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5 - $10 | Graded (9.8): $40 - $60
Recent Sales
Recent raw copies in high grade typically sell between $4 and $12. CGC 9.8 copies have recently sold in the $45 to $55 range.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading unless for personal collection sentimental value. The cost of grading (approx. $25-$40) exceeds the typical market value of the comic in this condition. It is a solid candidate for a 'press and clean' if the goal is a 9.6 or 9.8.
Notable Features
Smoke and Mirrors Part 3; Features Scarlet Spider, Jackal, and Gwen Stacy clone; Direct Edition with barcode and 'Direct Edition' text printed in the UPC box.
Authentication Notes
The comic appears to be an authentic 1995 publication. The paper stock is the standard glossy '90s Marvel stock (non-newsprint). The staple alignment and registration of the 'Spider-Man' logo and price box are consistent with official printings from this era.