Ghost Rider #73
Marvel Comics • Ghost Rider Vol. 1
Writer
Roger Stern
Interior Artist
Bob Budiansky
Cover Artist
Bob Budiansky
Publication Date
October 1982
Cover Variant
Direct Edition (Spider-Man head UPC replacement)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Johnny Blaze (Ghost Rider) vs. The Circus of Crime. The story involves the Circus of Crime trying to recruit or exploit the Ghost Rider during a performance. Key characters include Ringmaster, Clown, Princess Python, and the Great Gambonnos.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine/Very Fine (7.0)
Condition Details
Moderate spine stress with color-breaking ticks; visible blunting and small creases on the top-left and top-right corners. Edge wear along the left spine side. Some surface abrasions and minor discoloration on the white background areas of the cover.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $10.00 - $18.00; Graded (CGC 7.0): $45.00 - $60.00
Recent Sales
Recent raw sales for mid-to-high grade copies range between $12 and $25. High-grade (9.6+) copies have sold for $100+.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading unless for personal collection sentimental value. The cost of grading exceeds the market value of a 7.0 copy. A 'Press and Clean' might improve the grade slightly, but it likely wouldn't reach the 9.2+ threshold needed to realize a significant profit.
Notable Features
Iconic 'Skull' cover composition by Bob Budiansky. Features the Ringmaster and the Circus of Crime. Direct Edition copy indicated by the Spider-Man logo in the UPC box.
Authentication Notes
Standard 1980s Marvel newsprint and semi-gloss cover stock. No signs of reproduction or counterfeiting. Correct price point (60 cents) for the late 1982 era.