The Marvel Saga: The Official History of the Marvel Universe ##13
Marvel Comics • The Marvel Saga (1985-1987)
Writer
Peter Sanderson
Interior Artist
Various (Compilation of classic Marvel artwork)
Cover Artist
Ron Frenz and Klaus Janson
Publication Date
December 1986
Cover Variant
Regular Edition (Direct Market with Spider-Man icon corner box)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Part of the history project that retells the early stories of the Marvel Universe in chronological order. This issue covers the first appearance of the Green Goblin, early Spider-Man vs. Doctor Octopus battles, the first meeting between the Avengers and the Fantastic Four, and the early rivalry between Captain America and Baron Zemo.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine- (CGC 7.5) to Very Fine (CGC 8.0)
Condition Details
Moderate spine stress marks visible on the left edge. Minor corner blunting on the top right. Some surface scuffing/glare on the protective polybag (mylar), making distinct cover assessments difficult, but the book appears flat with good color retention. Yellowing/tanning possible on interior pages due to age and paper stock.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $3.00 - $8.00; Graded (9.8): $40.00 - $60.00
Recent Sales
Recent raw sales for mid-to-high grade copies typically range from $2 to $6 on platforms like eBay. Graded copies of this specific issue are relatively rare as it is not a high-demand key issue.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of the grading service (approx $25-$40) exceeds the current market value of the comic. It is best kept raw in a bag and board for personal collection.
Notable Features
Features a Spider-Man 25th Anniversary border around the corner box logo. Notable for being a comprehensive chronological guide; includes reprints of classic panels from Lee, Kirby, and Ditko eras.
Authentication Notes
Genuine 1986 Marvel publication. Standard newsprint interior pages and glossy cover stock of the era. The Spider-Man 'mask' icon in the lower-left corner indicates a Direct Market edition rather than a newsstand barcode edition.