The Amazing Spider-Man ##269
Marvel Comics • The Amazing Spider-Man Vol. 1
Writer
Tom DeFalco
Interior Artist
Ron Frenz
Cover Artist
Ron Frenz and Josef Rubinstein
Publication Date
October 1985
Cover Variant
Direct Edition (Spider-Man head in UPC box)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Part one of a classic two-part battle: Spider-Man in his black symbiote suit (costume) faces off against Firelord, a former herald of Galactus. This is a favorite 'underdog' story among fans.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine- (7.5)
Condition Details
Visible moderate spine stress with color-breaking ticks; blunting on top right corner; slight edge wear along the right-hand side; favorable color retention and gloss, but minor surface wear visible in the lighter background areas.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $30 - $45; Graded (CGC 7.5): $80 - $110; Graded (CGC 9.8): $450+
Recent Sales
Raw VF copies consistently sell for $35-$50. 9.8 graded copies have seen a price increase due to the popularity of the black suit era.
Grading Recommendation
In current 7.5 condition, professional grading is likely not cost-effective. However, a clean and press could potentially elevate the grade to an 8.0 or 8.5. Only worth grading if reaching 9.4 or higher to maximize return.
Notable Features
Black Suit era; iconic battle cover; direct edition; starts the Firelord story arc which concludes in issue #270.
Authentication Notes
The item appears to be an authentic 1985 original based on paper oxidation patterns, corner wear consistent with age, and correct layout of the corner box and logo.