What If... ##53

Marvel ComicsWhat If... Vol. 2 (1989-1998)

What If...

Writer

Simon Furman

Interior Artist

John Royle

Cover Artist

Dave Simons

Publication Date

September 1993

Cover Variant

Regular / Direct Edition

Printing

First Printing

Comic Description

This issue features three alternate reality stories: What if Iron Man settled the Armor Wars? What if Spider-Man killed the Lizard? And what if the Hulk killed the Abomination? It features the Watcher narrating these darker outcomes.

Condition & Value

Condition Grade

Very Fine+ (CGC 8.5)

Condition Details

Light spine stress marks, minor corner blunting on the bottom left, and slight surface wear visible on the black ink sections. The comic appears flat with vibrant colors.

Estimated Market Value

Raw: $5.00 - $10.00 | Graded (9.8): $40.00 - $60.00

Recent Sales

Recent raw copies in similar condition have sold for $6.00 to $8.00. Graded copies are relatively scarce on the market due to the low base value.

Grading Recommendation

Not recommended for grading. The cost of professional grading (CGC/CBCS) exceeds the current market value of the comic. Better kept in a bag and board as a collector copy.

Notable Features

Anthology issue. Features Spider-Man, Hulk, and Iron Man. Direct Edition indicated by the UPC barcode box with no line through it.

Authentication Notes

Authentic 1990s Marvel gloss and paper stock. Correct cover price and font for the era. Standard two-staple binding.

Scanned on 5/21/2026