Spider-Man #53
Marvel Comics • Spider-Man Vol. 1 (1990)
Writer
Howard Mackie
Interior Artist
Tom Lyle
Cover Artist
Tom Lyle
Publication Date
December 1994
Cover Variant
Direct Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Part 4 of 'The Exile Returns' storyline. Ben Reilly, acting as the Scarlet Spider, faces off against Venom (Eddie Brock) in a final confrontation. The story focuses on Ben Reilly attempting to prove himself as a hero while Peter Parker is retired/away during the early stages of the Clone Saga.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine- (CGC 7.5)
Condition Details
Visible edge wear along the top spine and upper cover edge. Minor corner blunting on the bottom right. Small color-breaking spine stress marks (spine ticks) are present. The cover remains flat with good gloss, but exhibits general handling wear typical of this era's paper stock.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $3 - $8; Graded (CGC 9.8): $45 - $60
Recent Sales
Raw copies typically sell in bundles or for near-cover price at $5. High-grade graded copies (9.8) have recently sold between $48 and $55 on auction platforms.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The costs of grading would likely exceed the market value of the comic in this condition. Professional pressing might improve it to an 8.0, but still would not justify the expense.
Notable Features
Features the Scarlet Spider (Ben Reilly) in early solo action. 'The Fall of Venom' cover. Direct Edition with UPC barcode and 'Direct Edition' text in the bottom right corner. Key era of the 1990s Spider-Man Clone Saga.
Authentication Notes
Authentic 1994 Marvel Direct Edition. Correct paper stock for the mid-90s Marvel era (slightly glossier cover with newsprint-style interior). Standard two-staple binding and correct color registration for the period.