The Amazing Spider-Man ##161
Marvel Comics • The Amazing Spider-Man Vol. 1
Writer
Len Wein
Interior Artist
Ross Andru
Cover Artist
Gil Kane and John Romita Sr.
Publication Date
October 1976
Cover Variant
Regular/Direct Edition (02457 UPC code)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Spider-Man battles Nightcrawler from the X-Men (who mistakes Spider-Man for a criminal). The Punisher also appears, gunning for Spidey. Storyline: ...And the Punisher Shall Sell No More Forever!
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good (CGC 4.0)
Condition Details
Visible color-breaking spine stress, significant corner blunting (specifically top right and bottom left), minor edge wear, tanning consistent with age, and a slight surface crease on the right edge. The cover gloss appears somewhat diminished.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $25 - $40 | Graded (4.0): $60 - $80
Recent Sales
Copies in VG condition have recently sold between $22 and $35. High-grade copies (9.0+) command significantly higher premiums ranging from $150 to $300.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading given the visible wear and current market value for low-to-mid grade Bronze Age copies. The cost of grading would likely exceed the immediate value increase.
Notable Features
Early appearance of the New X-Men member Nightcrawler (Kurt Wagner). Appearance by The Punisher. Part of the 'Spider-Man vs. Nightcrawler' arc. This issue has a UPC barcode indicating a direct or newsstand distribution variant common for the period.
Authentication Notes
The comic displays authentic 1970s newsprint characteristics, including standard Ben-Day dot coloring, era-specific 30-cent price point, and appropriate paper oxidation levels. It appears to be an original 1976 printing.