The Uncanny X-Men ##266
Marvel Comics • The Uncanny X-Men Vol. 1
Writer
Chris Claremont
Interior Artist
Mike Collins
Cover Artist
Andy Kubert
Publication Date
August 1990
Cover Variant
Direct Edition (Spider-Man head UPC)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
This issue features the first full appearance of Remy LeBeau, aka Gambit. He meets Storm (who has been de-aged to a child and is being hunted by the Shadow King's agents) and they form an alliance in Cairo, Illinois.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine (CGC 8.0)
Condition Details
Multiple spine stress marks (some breaking color), blunted top-left and bottom-left corners, minor edge wear along the top right, and slight color rubbing on the black areas of the back/edges.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $180 - $220 | Graded (estimated 8.0): $250 - $280
Recent Sales
CGC 9.8 copies routinely sell for $800-$1,000; mid-grade raw copies (7.0-8.5) have recently sold between $150 and $250 depending on the severity of spine ticks.
Grading Recommendation
Recommended for grading if a press and clean can be performed first. The spine ticks are the primary limiter. Professional pressing might elevate this to an 8.5/9.0, significantly improving its investment value as a high-demand key issue.
Notable Features
First full appearance of Gambit. Iconic Andy Kubert cover art. Highly sought-after copper age key issue. Direct edition with Spider-Man UPC head.
Authentication Notes
Authentic first printing. High ink density on the black masthead, correct $1.00 USD price point for the era, and period-correct paper stock aging visible on the edges.