The Amazing Spider-Man ##276
Marvel Comics • The Amazing Spider-Man Vol. 1
Writer
Tom DeFalco
Interior Artist
Ron Frenz
Cover Artist
Tom Morgan
Publication Date
May 1986
Cover Variant
Regular (Direct Edition with UPC barcode)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Story titled 'The Face Beneath the Mask!'. This issue involves a major mystery regarding the identity of the Hobgoblin. Spider-Man believes he has finally unmasked the villain, only to find Flash Thompson in the costume, leading to a complex frame-up storyline.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine (CGC 6.0)
Condition Details
Visible color-breaking spine stress/ticks; blunting and minor chipping on the top right corner; slight edge wear on the right side; noticeable rubbing/scuffing on the top center near the title logo; bottom left corner shows minor impact wear.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $10 - $20; Graded (CGC 6.0): $40 - $55; Graded (CGC 9.8 potential): $250+
Recent Sales
Recent raw copies in similar mid-grade condition have sold for $12-$18. High-grade (9.8) copies sell for significantly more, while mid-grade slabs fluctuate around $50.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading in its current state. The visible surface scuffs and spine ticks likely cap the grade at a 6.0-7.0. The cost of grading would outweigh the market value of the slab unless the comic were in Near Mint condition.
Notable Features
Marvel 25th Anniversary logo in the top left corner. Key issue in the original 'Who is the Hobgoblin?' saga. Includes a 'Direct Edition' UPC barcode. Note the iconic cover art featuring Spider-Man holding a Hobgoblin mask.
Authentication Notes
Appears to be an authentic 1986 original. Correct paper stock age and gloss consistent with the copper age of comics. Staple placement and copper age printing dot patterns (halftone) appear consistent with Marvel's 1980s manufacturing.