The Spectacular Spider-Man ##143

Marvel ComicsThe Spectacular Spider-Man Vol. 1

The Spectacular Spider-Man

Writer

Gerry Conway

Interior Artist

Sal Buscema

Cover Artist

Sal Buscema

Publication Date

October 1988

Cover Variant

Newsstand Edition

Printing

First Printing

Comic Description

Part 1 of the 'Death in Dallas' storyline. Spider-Man and The Punisher team up to take on the brainwashing villain known as The Persuader. The story features Frank Castle's tactical approach to superheroics contrasting with Peter Parker's morality.

Condition & Value

Condition Grade

Fine/Very Fine (CGC 7.0)

Condition Details

Visible spine stress marks (ticks), slight corner blunting on the bottom left and top right, minor surface wear on the black ink sections of Punisher's costume, and a small color break near the bottom edge. Edges appear relatively straight but show mild shelf wear.

Estimated Market Value

Raw: $10 - $20; Graded (CGC 9.8): $100 - $140

Recent Sales

Recent 9.8 sales have averaged $120; raw copies in mid-to-high grade typically sell for $15-$25. Lower grades (VG/FN) sell for under $10.

Grading Recommendation

Not recommended for professional grading in this condition. The estimated 7.0-7.5 grade would not significantly increase the value beyond the cost of the grading fees. Grading is typically only profitable for this issue at 9.6 or 9.8 levels.

Notable Features

Guest starring The Punisher. Newsstand edition (identifiable by the UPC barcode). Features Sal Buscema internal and cover art. The issue is a 'semi-key' for Punisher collectors and fans of the late 80s street-level Marvel era.

Authentication Notes

The comic appears authentic based on the age-appropriate paper oxidation visible on the edges, the specific newsstand barcode formatting for 1988, and standard Marvel ink density of that era. No signs of reprint or counterfeit reproduction are present.

Scanned on 3/17/2026