The Spectacular Spider-Man ##138
Marvel Comics • The Spectacular Spider-Man (Volume 1)
Writer
Steve Gerber
Interior Artist
Sal Buscema
Cover Artist
Sal Buscema
Publication Date
May 1988
Cover Variant
Newsstand Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Spider-Man deals with the return of the Tarantula (Luis Alvarez), who has teamed up with Captain America (later revealed to be John Walker / Super-Patriot during his stint as Cap). Part of the 'Night of the Tarantula' storyline.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine (CGC 8.0)
Condition Details
Visible color-breaking spine stress ticks; bottom-left corner blunting; minor edge wear along the top; some surface scuffing visible near the 'Spectacular' title font; staples appear centered but show light age.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $3 - $10; Graded (9.8): $50 - $70
Recent Sales
Recent raw newsstand copies in mid-to-high grade sold for approximately $5 to $8 plus shipping. 9.8 graded copies have stabilized around $60.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of CGC/CBCS grading plus shipping exceeds the market value of the comic in this condition. This issue is not a major key and is common in the back-issue market.
Notable Features
Newsstand edition (barcode in bottom left); John Walker appearing as Captain America; iconic Sal Buscema cover art.
Authentication Notes
Authentic 1980s Copper Age newsstand printing. Paper stock shows typical off-white aging consistent with the era. Color registration is sharp and printing bleed matches standard Marvel 1988 production.