X-Men ##5
Marvel Comics • X-Men Vol. 2
Writer
John Byrne
Interior Artist
Jim Lee
Cover Artist
Jim Lee & Scott Williams
Publication Date
February 1992
Cover Variant
Regular/Newsstand Edition (with UPC barcode)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Features the X-Men vs. Omega Red. This issue is a key early appearance of Omega Red (Arkady Rossovich) and continues the Maverick storyline and the 'Team X' backstory involving Wolverine.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine/Near Mint (CGC 9.0)
Condition Details
Minor spine stress ticks visible along the left edge, slight blunting on the bottom left corner, and minor edge wear consistent with age and newsstand distribution. Gloss remains high.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $20 - $35; Graded (9.0-9.4): $60 - $85; Graded (9.8): $250 - $350 (Newsstand typically commands a premium over Direct).
Recent Sales
Raw copies in similar condition recently sell between $15 and $30 on eBay. CGC 9.8 newsstand copies have reached over $300 recently.
Grading Recommendation
Only worth professional grading if it is likely to hit a 9.6 or 9.8. This copy appears to be around 9.0-9.2; at that grade, the cost of grading may exceed the value added.
Notable Features
Second appearance of Omega Red. Notable Newsstand Edition with barcode. Iconic Jim Lee cover art.
Authentication Notes
The paper stock, ink saturation of the early 90s Marvel gloss, and the specific Newsstand UPC placement are consistent with authentic 1992 printings.