The Amazing Spider-Man ##1
Marvel Comics • The Amazing Spider-Man Vol. 1
Writer
Stan Lee
Interior Artist
Steve Ditko
Cover Artist
Jack Kirby (Layouts), Steve Ditko (Pencils/Inks)
Publication Date
March 1963
Cover Variant
Regular/Direct Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
First issue of the solo Amazing Spider-Man series. Features the first appearance of J. Jonah Jameson and John Jameson. The Chameleon also makes his first appearance. Spider-Man attempts to join the Fantastic Four to earn a salary.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Poor (CGC 0.5)
Condition Details
Heavy wear including a large tear on the left edge (bottom left), significant edge chipping, multiple creases, heavy staining/soiling, and sticker residue/stickers on the top right. Likely brittle and potentially detached cover.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $3,000 - $6,000; Graded: $7,000 - $9,000 (depending on page quality and completeness)
Recent Sales
Low-grade copies (CGC 0.5 to 1.5) have recently cleared between $5,500 and $12,500 depending on eye appeal and completeness.
Grading Recommendation
Highly Recommended. Despite the poor condition, this is a top-tier Silver Age key. Professional grading establishes authenticity and protects the fragile paper. A cleaning and press may improve appearance but won't raise the grade significantly due to the large tear.
Notable Features
Major Silver Age Key issue. Second full appearance of Spider-Man (after Amazing Fantasy #15). First appearance of the Chameleon (1st Spidey Villain). First appearance of J. Jonah Jameson.
Authentication Notes
High risk of counterfeiting or restoration (color touch/re-gluing). The visible aging, paper acidity (yellowing), and specific printing textures suggest an original, but professional authentication is mandatory for this specific issue due to its high value.