The Avengers ##71
Marvel Comics • The Avengers Vol. 1
Writer
Roy Thomas
Interior Artist
Sal Buscema
Cover Artist
Sal Buscema and Sam Grainger
Publication Date
December 1969
Cover Variant
Regular/Direct Edition (15 cent price point)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Part 3 of the 'Endgame' storyline involving Kang the Conqueror and the Grandmaster. The Avengers (including Black Panther, Vision, and Captain America) battle the Invaders from the past (Namor, Human Torch, and Captain America) as pawns in a cosmic game.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine (CGC 6.0)
Condition Details
Visible moderate spine stress and color-breaking ticks along the left edge. Minor corner blunting on the bottom right and top left. Slight edge wear and potential light tanning consistent with paper age. Small crease near the bottom right under 'Battle'.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $35 - $60; Graded (CGC 6.0): $100 - $130
Recent Sales
Recent sales for a mid-grade raw copy range from $40 to $70 depending on specific eye appeal. High-grade 9.0+ copies command significant premiums ($300+).
Grading Recommendation
Only worth grading if looking for preservation or if a professional 'Clean and Press' can elevate it to a 7.5 or higher. In its current roughly 6.0 state, the cost of grading may exceed the value added.
Notable Features
Features the Avengers vs. the Invaders (original 1940s team). Key Kang the Conqueror and Grandmaster appearance. Early Sal Buscema Marvel work.
Authentication Notes
Appears authentic with period-correct color saturation, 15c price box, and standard Bronze Age newsprint stock. No visible signs of restoration such as color touch-ups or trimmed edges.