The Uncanny X-Men ##139
Marvel Comics Group • 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
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
First issue where Kitty Pryde officially joins the X-Men (using the name Sprite). Wolverine debuts his new brown-and-tan costume. The team travels to Canada to assist Alpha Flight against Wendigo.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine/Very Fine (CGC 7.0)
Condition Details
Visible spine stress marks with color breaking, minor corner blunting on the bottom right and top right, some surface wear along the spine edge, and potential minor tanning on page edges.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $30 - $45; Graded (7.0): $60 - $85
Recent Sales
CGC 9.8 copies have sold for $400 - $600; mid-grade raw copies (6.0-7.5) consistently sell between $25 and $50.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading unless a press improves the spine ticks significantly. The value of a 7.0/7.5 often does not outweigh the costs of grading fees and shipping.
Notable Features
Key issue featuring Kitty Pryde joining the team. First appearance of Wolverine's brown costume. Direct Edition indicated by the Spider-Man head in the UPC box. Iconic John Byrne cover art. Features Alpha Flight (Heather Hudson, Snowbird).
Authentication Notes
Consistent with copper age printing standards; Spider-Man UPC box and '1980 Marvel Comics Group' copyright text appear authentic to the period and print run.