The Uncanny X-Men ##139
Marvel Comics • The Uncanny X-Men Vol. 1
Writer
Chris Claremont
Interior Artist
John Byrne
Cover Artist
John Byrne and Terry Austin
Publication Date
November 1980
Cover Variant
Direct Edition (Spider-Man head in UPC box)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
First issue where the title 'The Uncanny X-Men' becomes official on the cover. Kitty Pryde joins the X-Men as 'Sprite' and begins her training. The story follows Wolverine and Nightcrawler in Canada where they face Wendigo and Alpha Flight.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine/Very Fine (CGC 7.0)
Condition Details
Visible color-breaking spine stress/ticks along the left edge. Minor blunting on the upper and lower left corners. Slight edge wear along the top horizontal margin. Surface scuffing or 'dullness' typical for age but colors remain vibrant. No major creases visible on the main cover plane, but spine integrity shows moderate handling.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $35 - $60; Graded (9.0+): $120+
Recent Sales
Recent raw copies in Mid-High grade range from $40 to $70. High-grade CGC 9.8 copies can fetch $400+, while 7.0 range copies hover around $60-80.
Grading Recommendation
In its current raw state (estimated 7.0/7.5), a professional grading may not significantly increase ROI after fees unless it achieves a 9.0 or higher after a professional press and clean. If the spine ticks are deep, a 8.0 is the likely ceiling.
Notable Features
Kitty Pryde joins the team. First appearance of Heather Hudson. Wolverine's classic brown and tan costume appears prominently. Direct Edition indicated by the Spider-Man logo in the UPC area.
Authentication Notes
Authentic 1980s Marvel stock. Paper aging (off-white to white pages) is consistent with the era. Staple placement and cover alignment are standard for Bronze Age Marvel production.