Spider-Man ##44
Marvel Comics • Spider-Man Vol. 1 (The 'Adjectiveless' series)
Writer
Howard Mackie
Interior Artist
Tom Lyle
Cover Artist
Tom Lyle
Publication Date
March 1994
Cover Variant
Regular (Direct Edition with UPC)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Part 1 of 'The Anniversary Syndrome'. Features Spider-Man facing off against the Hobgoblin (Jason Macendale). This era followed the departure of Todd McFarlane and Erik Larsen, with Tom Lyle taking over the art duties.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine/Near Mint (CGC 9.0) - estimate based on image
Condition Details
Minor spine stress visible along the left edge. Corners appear relatively sharp but might have slight blunting. Surface gloss looks well-preserved. No major color-breaking creases visible from this angle.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $3 - $8; Graded (CGC 9.8): $40 - $60
Recent Sales
Raw copies typically sell for approximately $5. High-grade slabbed copies fluctuate based on registry demand but rarely exceed $70.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of CGC/CBCS grading fees plus shipping exceeds the market value of the book for this specific issue unless it is a guaranteed 9.8 or 9.9 candidate.
Notable Features
Direct Edition UPC barcode in lower left corner. Features the 'Beginning: A New Era of Greatness' banner on the top left. First part of a new storyline involving the Hobgoblin and the 'demonic' version of the character.
Authentication Notes
Authentic 1990s Marvel Direct Edition. Correct paper stock for the era (glossy cover, newsprint-style interior). Staple placement and 'Comic Code Authority' stamp are consistent with Marvel's 1994 production standards.