Marvel Tales Featuring Spider-Man ##223
Marvel Comics • Marvel Tales Vol. 2
Writer
Tom DeFalco
Interior Artist
Ron Frenz
Cover Artist
Todd McFarlane
Publication Date
May 1989
Cover Variant
Newsstand Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Reprints Amazing Spider-Man #252. This issue features the first appearance of Spider-Man's black alien costume (which later becomes Venom) in the Amazing Spider-Man title history. The story follows Spidey returning from the Secret Wars.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine/Near Mint (CGC 9.0)
Condition Details
Minor spine stress visible along the left edge. Slight blunting on the bottom-left corner. Surface shows good gloss but minor handling wear. Bag and board make subtle defects harder to spot, but colors remain vibrant with no significant fading.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $10 - $25; Graded (CGC 9.8): $120 - $160
Recent Sales
Raw copies in similar condition consistently sell for $15-$20. CGC 9.8 copies have seen a price spike due to the popularity of Todd McFarlane's Venom/Spiderman art.
Grading Recommendation
Only worth grading if it is a potential 9.8 candidate. At an estimated 9.0, the cost of grading may exceed the value added. A 'Press and Clean' might boost it if there are non-color-breaking depressions.
Notable Features
Cover art by Todd McFarlane. Reprints ASM #252. Features the iconic black costume. Newsstand barcode is present in the lower-left corner.
Authentication Notes
The UPC barcode (Newsstand), price point ($1.35), and paper aging appear consistent with late 1980s Marvel production. No signs of reproduction or counterfeiting are evident.