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
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Part of the iconic 'Mutant Massacre' crossover event. Wolverine tracks the Marauders into the Morlock tunnels and engages in a brutal first showdown with Sabretooth. This issue is highly desirable for fans of the Wolverine/Sabretooth rivalry.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine/Near Mint (CGC 9.0)
Condition Details
Minor spine stress marks visible on the left edge. The top right corner shows very slight blunting. The black ink on the lower half is susceptible to showing fingerprints or scuffs, but overall gloss appears high. Edges appear sharp with no visible color breaking. Final grade is dependent on back cover and interior inspection.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $25 - $40 | Graded (CGC 9.8): $250 - $325 | Graded (CGC 9.0): $50 - $65
Recent Sales
High-grade 9.8 copies have recently sold in the $275+ range. Newsstand versions carry a slight premium. Raw copies in mid-to-high grade typically sell for $30.
Grading Recommendation
Only worth grading if it is a guaranteed 9.8 (near perfect). At the current estimated 9.0/9.2 range, grading costs would likely exceed the value increase. A professional comic press could potentially raise this into the 9.4+ range.
Notable Features
Mutant Massacre tie-in. Iconic cover by Barry Windsor-Smith. First Wolverine vs. Sabretooth battle in the X-Men title. Spider-Man face in the UPC box indicates a Direct Edition copy. 25th Anniversary border.
Authentication Notes
Authentic 1986 bronze/copper age paper stock. Correct color registration. Correct 'M' logo on the barcode box typical of Marvel Direct Editions of this era.