The Uncanny X-Men ##212
Marvel Comics • The Uncanny X-Men Vol. 1
Writer
Chris Claremont
Interior Artist
Rick Leonardi
Cover Artist
Barry Windsor-Smith
Publication Date
December 1986
Cover Variant
Direct Edition (Spidey Face UPC)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Part of the Mutant Massacre crossover event. This issue features the first iconic battle between Wolverine and Sabretooth. Wolverine tracks the Marauders to the Morlock tunnels and engages in a brutal fight with Sabretooth to protect his fellow mutants.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine/Near Mint (CGC 9.0)
Condition Details
Generally sharp and well-preserved. Slight blunting on the top right corner. Very minor spine stress ticks visible upon close inspection. The black cover ink is highly susceptible to showing wear, but this copy retains high gloss with minimal color breaking. Slight registration or alignment shift on the top edge banner.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $35 - $60; Graded (CGC 9.8): $250 - $350; Graded (CGC 9.0): $75 - $95
Recent Sales
Recent raw sales for high-grade copies typically hover around $45-$55. 9.8 graded copies have shown a steady market demand due to the iconic Wolverine/Sabretooth rivalry.
Grading Recommendation
Potentially worth grading if it can reach a 9.6 or 9.8 grade after a professional clean and press. As a 9.0, the cost of grading may equal the market value increase, so it is recommended for personal collection or high-tier preservation only.
Notable Features
Significant key issue featuring the first Wolverine vs. Sabretooth fight. Features the Marvel 25th Anniversary border on the top-left corner. Direct Edition marked with the Spider-Man head logo in the UPC box.
Authentication Notes
Authentic first printing. Features correct 75 cent price point for 1986, correct paper stock (typical Baxter or standard copper age newsprint variant common for this era), and period-accurate color saturation on the red and black cover inks.