The Avengers ##195
Marvel Comics • The Avengers Vol. 1
Writer
David Michelinie
Interior Artist
George Pérez
Cover Artist
George Pérez and Dan Green
Publication Date
May 1980
Cover Variant
Direct Edition (Spider-man head in UPC box)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
First appearance of Taskmaster (cameo/full debut in next issue). The story features the Avengers (Ant-Man, Yellowjacket, and Wasp) held captive by the Taskmaster's training academy. Key plot point includes the debut of Taskmaster's photographic reflexes.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine/Very Fine (CGC 7.0)
Condition Details
Visible spine stress marks with color breaking; blunting and minor wear on the top right and bottom right corners; slight edge wear along the right side; minor surface scuffing and small crease visible near the bottom right corner.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $15 - $25; Graded (9.8): $180 - $220. At a 7.0 grade, market value is approximately $20 - $30.
Recent Sales
Recent sales for raw copies in mid-to-high grade average between $12 and $35. High-grade 9.8 copies have sold for roughly $200 in late 2023/early 2024.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading in current condition. The estimated 7.0 grade would not yield a significant return after grading fees. Grade would likely increase slightly with a professional clean and press, but only worth it if reaching 9.4 or higher.
Notable Features
First appearance of Taskmaster (cameo in last panel). Noted as a 'Direct Edition' indicated by the Spider-Man logo in the UPC area instead of a barcode. 40 cent price variant.
Authentication Notes
The comic appears authentic based on appropriate color registration, era-accurate paper oxidation (slight yellowing on edges), and the standard 'Direct Edition' Spider-Man UPC graphical implementation.