Peter Parker, The Spectacular Spider-Man ##73
Marvel Comics Group • The Spectacular Spider-Man Vol. 1
Writer
Bill Mantlo
Interior Artist
Al Milgrom
Cover Artist
Al Milgrom
Publication Date
December 1982
Cover Variant
Newsstand Edition (UPC barcode present)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Part 1 of 'Spider in the Middle.' Spider-Man is caught in a conflict between Doctor Octopus and the Owl. Black Cat (Felicia Hardy) makes a significant appearance as she attempts to help Spider-Man.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine- (CGC 7.5)
Condition Details
Moderate spine stress with color-breaking ticks; corner blunting particularly on the bottom right; minor edge wear and surface scuffing visible through the bag. Slight foxing along the top white border.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $10 - $20; Graded (CGC 9.8 equivalent): $100 - $140. Current estimated state (7.5): $15 - $25.
Recent Sales
Recent raw copies in similar mid-to-high grade condition have sold for $12-$18. CGC 9.6 copies recently sold for approximately $85.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading unless the collector desires it for personal protection. The cost of grading exceeds the value of a mid-grade copy. A professional press could improve the grade slightly, but it is not a high-value key issue.
Notable Features
Newsstand barcode edition; features Doctor Octopus and The Owl; artwork by longtime Spider-Man contributor Al Milgrom; Bronze Age era Marvel style.
Authentication Notes
Authentic 1982 Bronze Age Marvel printing. Standard newsstand glossy cover with typical period paper stock. Staple placement and Ben-Day dots in the coloring are consistent with original press runs.