Peter Parker, The Spectacular Spider-Man ##81
Marvel Comics • Peter Parker, The Spectacular Spider-Man Vol. 1
Writer
Bill Mantlo
Interior Artist
Al Milgrom
Cover Artist
Al Milgrom
Publication Date
August 1983
Cover Variant
Direct Edition (Spider-Man head in UPC box)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Spider-Man teams up with the vigilante duo Cloak and Dagger to take down a drug-smuggling operation. The story features early appearances of Cloak and Dagger as they continue their mission against the criminal underworld.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine (CGC 8.0)
Condition Details
Moderate spine stress with minor color-breaking ticks; slight corner blunting on the top right; minor surface scuffing visible on black area of cloak; faint edge wear; cover retains decent gloss.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $3 - $8; Graded (9.8): $60 - $80
Recent Sales
Raw copies typically sell for under $10. High-grade CGC 9.8 copies have recently sold in the $70 range, though demand is moderate for this non-key issue.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of grading (approx. $25-$40) exceeds the value of the book in this estimated condition. Only worth grading if it were a flawless 9.8 specimen.
Notable Features
Early appearance of Cloak and Dagger (roughly their 5th appearance); Direct Edition distribution (Spider-Man head icon); Newsstand editions of this era had a barcode.
Authentication Notes
The book appears to be an authentic 1983 original. The paper stock, ink saturation of the red/orange background, and the specific Marvel staple placement are consistent with period-correct manufacturing.