SPIDER-MAN ##1
Marvel Comics • Spider-Man Vol. 1 (1990)
Writer
Todd McFarlane
Interior Artist
Todd McFarlane
Cover Artist
Todd McFarlane
Publication Date
August 1990
Cover Variant
Regular Edition (Green/Black background)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Start of the 'Torment' story arc (Part 1 of 5). Peter Parker investigates a series of grisly murders in New York City, leading to a confrontation with a savage Lizard, who is being controlled by the voodoo priestess Calypso. Significant for being Todd McFarlane's solo writing and art debut on a Spider-Man title.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Near Mint (CGC 9.4)
Condition Details
The comic appears extremely well-preserved in the polybag. Visible corners are sharp. There is a very minor spine tick near the bottom staple and slight blunting on the bottom right corner of the bag which may transfer to the comic. Surface gloss is high with no visible color breaking. The white border is bright with no visible tanning.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $25 - $40; CGC 9.8: $120 - $150; CGC 9.4 (estimated current): $60 - $80
Recent Sales
Recent eBay sales for raw copies range from $20 to $45 depending on condition. CGC 9.8 copies have consistently sold between $130 and $160 recently.
Grading Recommendation
Only worth grading if the owner is confident it will achieve a CGC 9.8. Due to the massive print run (millions), lower grades are not economically viable for resale. A 'Press and Clean' is recommended before submission to ensure a 9.8 grade.
Notable Features
First issue of the 1990 Spider-Man series. Iconic Todd McFarlane 'spaghetti web' cover. This is the direct edition (indicated by the Spider-Man mask icon in the bottom left UPC box) with the standard green/black cover design.
Authentication Notes
Authentic 1990 printing. Correct trade dress for the era, including the '1st All-New Collector's Item Issue!' header. Ben Day dots are consistent with period printing and color registration is sharp.