Tales of G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero ##12
Marvel Comics • Tales of G.I. Joe
Writer
Larry Hama
Interior Artist
Herb Trimpe (pencils), Jack Abel (inks)
Cover Artist
Ron Wagner
Publication Date
December 1988
Cover Variant
Regular (Direct Edition - Spider-Man face in UPC box)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
This issue is a reprint of the original G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero #12. It features the story 'The G.I. Joe Redemption', where G.I. Joe forces encounter Cobra at a hidden base. Key characters include Stalker, Breaker, Gung-Ho, and Cobra Commander.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine/Very Fine (CGC 7.0)
Condition Details
Moderate spine stress and ticks visible along the left edge. The top right corner shows visible blunting and potential minor creasing. The bottom edge appears slightly rough. General surface wear and light scuffing on the cover gloss, typical for bagging without a backing board.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5 - $10 | Graded (9.8): $60 - $80
Recent Sales
Raw copies in similar mid-to-high grade condition typically sell for $3 to $7 plus shipping. High-grade CGC 9.8 copies have sold in the $75 range recently.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. This is a reprint series (reprinting the original G.I. Joe #12) and does not hold significant value unless in absolute 9.8/9.9 condition. Grading costs would likely exceed the book's market value.
Notable Features
Reprint series title. Spider-Man icon in the UPC box indicates a Direct Market edition. This issue reprints the first appearance of the G.I. Joe Whale (hovercraft).
Authentication Notes
The comic appears authentic based on the trade dress (Marvel border), the specific 'Tales of' title font, and the paper aging consistent with late 1980s newsprint stock. Properly aligned staples and correct color registration for the era are visible.