The Amazing Spider-Man ##261
Marvel Comics • The Amazing Spider-Man Vol. 1
Writer
Tom DeFalco
Interior Artist
Ron Frenz
Cover Artist
Charles Vess
Publication Date
February 1985
Cover Variant
Regular/Direct Edition (Spider-Man head in UPC box)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Spider-Man faces off against the Hobgoblin (Harry Osborn). The story follows Mary Jane and Peter as they deal with the aftermath of Peter revealing he is Spider-Man. Hobgoblin kidnaps Liz Allan and Mary Jane, leading to a fiery confrontation.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine (CGC 6.0)
Condition Details
Visible moderate spine stressors and ticks with color-breaking on the left edge. Minor corner blunting at the top and bottom right. Slight surface wear and potential light toning on the white borders. The cover appears flat with good color vibrancy.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $10 - $15; Graded (CGC 8.0/9.0): $45 - $70
Recent Sales
Raw copies in similar condition recently sell for $8-$18. High grade (9.8) slabs currently fetch approximately $150-$180.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. In its current estimated mid-grade state (6.0), the cost of grading fees and shipping would exceed the market value of the slabbed book. Best kept as a high-quality reader copy or for personal collection.
Notable Features
Features the Hobgoblin. Black suit (Symbiote) era cover and internal depiction. Notable for the development of Peter and Mary Jane's relationship Post-ASM #259.
Authentication Notes
Authentic 1980s newsprint stock. The Spider-Man 'mask' logo in the bottom corner indicates a Direct Edition copy. Ink density and registration appear consistent with original Marvel production standards from 1985.