The Amazing Spider-Man ##197
Marvel Comics • The Amazing Spider-Man Vol. 1
Writer
Marv Wolfman
Interior Artist
Keith Pollard
Cover Artist
Keith Pollard
Publication Date
October 1979
Cover Variant
Regular/Direct Edition (Diagonal line through UPC)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Kingpin returns to battle Spider-Man in 'The Kingpin's Midnight Massacre!' After a period of retirement, Wilson Fisk returns to reclaim his criminal empire, leading to a brutal confrontation with Spider-Man. This issue also progresses the Peter Parker and Black Cat (Felicia Hardy) relationship subplot.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good/Fine (CGC 5.0)
Condition Details
Visible moderate spine stress with color-breaking ticks; significant blunting and wear on all four corners; edge wear along the right side of the cover; color-breaking crease near the Kingpin's shoulder/arm; a visible black slash mark through the UPC code (typical of period direct market returns or inventory management); overall surface wear and loss of original gloss.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $15 - $25; Graded (5.0): $40 - $55
Recent Sales
Recent sales for raw mid-grade copies fluctuate between $12 and $30. 9.8 graded copies command significantly higher premiums ($300+), but mid-grades remain affordable.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The costs of grading (CGC/CBCS fees plus shipping) would likely exceed the final market value of a 5.0 grade. This is best kept as a 'reader' copy or in a bag and board for a personal collection.
Notable Features
Features the Kingpin (Wilson Fisk) in a classic cover appearance. This is a 'Direct Edition' identifiable by the diagonal line through the UPC barcode. Early appearance of Black Cat in the series (though not her first).
Authentication Notes
The book appears authentic. It shows period-correct paper oxidation (slight yellowing visible on edges), standard 40-cent price point for 1979, and typical Marvel 'Direct Edition' markings for the late 70s.