Black Widow ##2
Marvel Comics • Black Widow Vol. 5
Writer
Nathan Edmondson
Interior Artist
Phil Noto
Cover Artist
Phil Noto
Publication Date
March 2014
Cover Variant
Regular/Cover A
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Natasha Romanoff continues her secret missions to atone for her past. In this issue, she travels to Shanghai to investigate a billionaire's financial movements linked to international crime. The run is highly regarded for its atmospheric art and focuses on Natasha's 'Red Ledger.'
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine- (CGC 7.5)
Condition Details
Visible color-breaking spine stress ticks (at least 3-4 along the left edge); minor blunting on the top-left and bottom-right corners; slight surface scuffing visible in the black ink areas; edge wear along the top margin.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $3 - $5; Graded (9.8): $40 - $60
Recent Sales
Recent raw copies in similar mid-to-high grade condition have consistently sold for $2 to $6 on secondary markets like eBay. Higher grade 9.8 slabs typically hover around the $50 mark due to the popular Noto cover art.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of grading (approx. $25-$40 + shipping/fees) exceeds the current market value of a raw or mid-grade copy. A press might remove some non-color breaking waves, but the spine ticks will prevent a 9.8 grade.
Notable Features
Features the 'All-New Marvel Now!' branding; Includes a 'Bonus Digital Edition' code advertisement on the cover; Notable for Phil Noto's distinctive painterly art style which defined this volume; Direct Edition (identifiable by the barcode style and logo).
Authentication Notes
Authentic Marvel product. Correct paper stock gloss and weight for 2014 production; registration on the trade dress and barcode is sharp; staple placement appears consistent with standard industrial binding for the era.