The Spectacular Spider-Man ##228
Marvel Comics • The Spectacular Spider-Man Vol. 1
Writer
Tom DeFalco
Interior Artist
Sal Buscema
Cover Artist
Sal Buscema
Publication Date
September 1995
Cover Variant
Regular (Direct Edition)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Part 1 of the 'Time Bomb' storyline. Peter Parker (Spider-Man) is being mentally manipulated and finds himself on the verge of killing Mary Jane Watson. This issue takes place during the 'Clone Saga' era of Spider-Man comics.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine / Near Mint (CGC 9.0)
Condition Details
Moderate spine stress visible on the left edge; slight blunting on the bottom right corner; minor shelf wear on the black ink background; overall high gloss and flat cover.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $3 - $8; Graded (9.8): $40 - $60
Recent Sales
Raw copies typically sell for bulk prices or under $10. Graded copies are infrequent as the cost of grading often exceeds the market value of the book.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The comic is a common modern-era issue with low market demand. The cost of grading (CGC/CBCS fees) would likely exceed the final value of the book unless it was a guaranteed 9.9/10.0.
Notable Features
Direct Edition with UPC barcode; features Spider-Man vs. Mary Jane cover art; notable for being part of the controversial Clone Saga.
Authentication Notes
Authentic copy with standard mid-90s gloss paper stock. UPC 'Direct Edition' box is correctly placed. Staple position is consistent with Marvel manufacturing of this era.