Ghost Rider #78
Marvel Comics • Ghost Rider Vol. 2 (1973 Series)

Writer
J.M. DeMatteis
Interior Artist
Bob Budiansky
Cover Artist
Bob Budiansky and Joe Rubinstein
Publication Date
March 1983
Cover Variant
Regular/Direct Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Johnny Blaze (Ghost Rider) battles the villain Nightmare. The story involves Nightmare attempting to manipulate Ghost Rider's psychological state within a dream realm. Key characters include Johnny Blaze and Nightmare.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine/Very Fine (CGC 7.0)
Condition Details
Visible spine stress marks with color breaking, minor blunting on the top right corner, slight yellowing/tanning along the top edge of the cover, and some minor surface wear throughout.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $10 - $20; Graded (CGC 9.0+): $60 - $100
Recent Sales
Recent sales for raw copies range from $8 to $25 depending on condition. 9.8 graded copies have sold for approximately $150-$200.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading unless it is a high-grade 9.6 or 9.8. This specific copy appears to be in the 7.0 range, where the cost of grading exceeds the market value boost. A professional press and clean might improve the grade slightly.
Notable Features
Features a classic 1980s Ghost Rider cover; noticeable for the Spider-Man head in the UPC corner, indicating a 'Direct Edition' copy intended for comic shops rather than newsstands.
Authentication Notes
The book shows appropriate age-related paper oxidation, standard Marvel copper-age ink saturation, and authentic period-correct staples. No signs of restoration or counterfeiting are visible.