Auctions: comic books 1980-1989

3-D Zone (1986) 16B FN+ 6.5

Minimal Trade Dress Variant Cover. #16 Space Vixens. Dave Stevens story and art. Bruce Jones script. These copies appear to have been distributed without 3-D glasses bound in. Cover price $2.50.

Action Comics (1938 DC) 521 FN- 5.5

Cover pencils by Ross Andru, inks by Dick Giordano. "The Deadly Rampage of the Lady Fox," script by Gerry Conway, pencils by Curt Swan, inks by Frank Chiaramonte; In New York City, the Vixen steals a van full of furs that belong to entrepreneur Mordecai Mule; Superman, attending a function at Madison Square Garden, learns of the robbery and gives chase; Superman and Vixen team up to stop a horde of elephants. "Grow, Little Growfish!", script by Bob Rozakis, pencils by Alex Saviuk, inks by Vince Colletta; Off the coast of Virginia, Aquaman experiments with his telepathic powers by sending out a routine mental scanning wave; He discovers a large, gelatinous organism that shrinks in size; Aquaman contacts the Atom, who teleports over to investigate. 36 Pages, Full Color, $0.50. Cover price $0.50.

Action Comics (1938 DC) 534 CBCS 9.8 SS Rosa

Paper: Off white to white

Witnessed Signature: Sam De La Rosa on 9/19/2021

Label #21-462D29B-001

Cover pencils by Ross Andru, inks by Dick Giordano. "Two for the Death of One!", script by Marv Wolfman, pencils by Curt Swan, inks by Dave Hunt; Superman is snatched into the medieval past by Lord Satanis, who has been allowed to return to Earth in that time by making a bargain with the Devil; Both Satanis and Syrene try to use Supermans body as a filter through which they may gain the powers of the Runestone, but instead they pull him apart into two separate Supermen. "Air-Wave's Close Encounter!", script by Bob Rozakis, pencils by Alex Saviuk, inks by Sam de la Rosa; Air Wave discovers an alien invader, whose partner turns out to be one of his teachers in disguise. 36 Pages, Full Color, $0.60. Cover price $0.60.

Action Comics (1938 DC) 536 CBCS 9.6

Paper: White

Direct Edition.

Label #23-0F1235F-001

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Cover pencils by Rich Buckler, inks by Frank Giacoia. "Battle Beneath the Earth!", script by Paul Kupperberg (script) and Marv Wolfman (plot), pencils by Joe Staton, inks by Sal Trapani; The Omega Men, Lois Lane, and Cave Carson go in search of Superman , who lies bound to a post by the Mole before a large group of super-villains, one of whom will get the opportunity to kill him. "I Talk to the Seas, But They Don't Listen to Me!", script by Bob Rozakis, pencils by Alex Saviuk, inks by Frank McLaughlin; Aquaman has a dream of Mera calling to him for help; After he awakens, he keeps an appointment to see Dr. Todd Carmel and Admiral Murphy at a S.T.A.R. sea station; They hope to learn how Aquaman telepathically "talks" to sea creatures, so that normal men will be able to do the same, by using a "brain-print" machine on Aquaman. 36 Pages, Full Color, $0.60. Cover price $0.60.

Air Raiders (1987 Marvel/Star Comics) 1 CGC 9.6

Paper: White

Label #4412913002

On the planet Airlandia, air is more valuable than gold and it's the Air Raiders battling evil ruler Aerozar and his Tyrants of Wind. In this issue, Rokk stuggles with the question of whether or not the Air Raiders have the right to let a village die even if it is for the greater good and will help in the long run in the war in "Sins of the Father." Script by Howard A. Mackie and art by Kelley Jones & Jim Sinclair. Cover price $1.00.

Akira (1988) 1 CGC 9.8

Paper: White

Label #4379386001

1st printing. Here it is – the first English translation of Katsuhiro Otomo's influential manga series, paving the way for the manga and anime craze to blossom in the English-speaking world. Decades after a mysterious explosion destroys Tokyo, teen bikers Tetsuo and Kaneda encounter a child with the face of an old man; his strange powers hold the key to the mystery. Story, art and cover by Otomo. Color by Steve Oliff, who pioneered the use of computer coloring with this series. Also includes an introductory article by Archie Goodwin. Mature readers. Cover price $3.50.

ALF (1988) Annual 1 CGC 9.8

Paper: White

Label #4412156003

Humorous Evolutionary War Tie-In

Comic book version of the TV sitcom and cartoon that aired on NBC from 1986 to 1990 featuring an Alien Life Form (ALF) living with a family. ALF's old girl friend from Melmac crash lands on Earth and takes up residence with the Tanners and ALF in "The Return of Rhonda." Then the Tanners visit Yosemite National Park and ALF has promised to behave himself. But how long do you think that will last in "Back to Human Nature." In "Safe At Home," Willie gets tickets to a skybox at a baseball game and that means ALF can go along to the game. Then in "You Give Me Fever," ALF gets an illness brought on by media simulation and starts acting like the people and characters he saw on screen. And in "A Campy Approach," when Brian goes away to summer camp, ALF gets worried about the youngster and tries to help Brian. Issue also has "You Say You Want An Evolution." Scripts by Michael Gallagher and art by Dave Manak & Marie Severin. Cover price $1.75.

Alien Encounters (1985 Eclipse) 2 CBCS 9.8

Paper: White

Label #21-2D13FCF-012

Cover by Peter Ledger. Written by Christy Marx, Kevin Farrell, Mark Borax and Buzz Dixon. Art by Peter Ledger, Kevin Farrell, Chuck Beckum (a.k.a. Chuck Austen) and Nicholas Koenig & Willie Blyberg. The illustrated science fiction magazine for mature readers. In this issue: "The Monster of Planet Og!" by Christy Marx and Peter Ledger; "The Resistance" by Kevin Farrell; "I Shot the Last Martian" by Mark Borax and Chuck Beckum; and "Emergency Rations" by Buzz Dixon, Nicholas Koenig and Willie Blyberg. 32 pages, full color. Mature Readers. Cover price $1.75.

Aliens (1988 Dark Horse) 1 CGC 9.0

Paper: White

Label #4350856002

1st printing - Written by Mark Verheiden. Art and cover by Mark A. Nelson. In deep space, a salvage crew is attacked by seemingly unstoppable monsters. The marines are called in, but they need someone with experience. Soon Hicks (the horribly scarred survivor from Aliens) and Newt (now almost eighteen) find themselves on a mission to locate and destroy the Aliens' homeworld! 32 pages, B&W. Cover price $1.95.

Aliens (1988 Dark Horse) 2 CGC 9.6

Paper: White

Label #4403191004

1st printing - Written by Mark Verheiden. Art and cover by Mark A. Nelson. Hicks breaks Newt out of the mental hospital where she is being held, and the two of them, along with a crack squad of battle-hardened Marines, blast-off for the Aliens' homeworld. But is the Alien menace really as far away as Hicks believes, or is the threat closer to Earth than anyone imagines? 32 pages, B&W. Cover price $1.95.

Aliens (1988 Dark Horse) 4 CBCS 9.4

Paper: White

Label #21-44C56E4-010

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1st printing - Written by Mark Verheiden. Art and cover by Mark A. Nelson. All hell breaks loose as Hicks, Newt and the Marines arrive on the Aliens' homeworld! While back on Earth, a misguided religious fanatic frees the Alien Queen captured by the Bionational Corp.! Even if Hicks and Newt survive their mission, will there be an Earth to come home to? 32 pages, B&W. Cover price $1.95.

Alpha Flight (1983 1st Series) 1 CBCS 9.8

Paper: White

Direct Edition

Label #19-279A9AA-049

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"Tundra!" Story and art by John Byrne. Exploding from the pages of the X-Men comes Canada's premier super-team - Alpha Flight! The monstrous Sasquatch, the mystical Shaman, the twins, Aurora and Northstar, the divine Snowbird, the tumbling Puck (1st appearance), the aquatic beauty, Marrina (1st appearance), and their leader, Vindicator, must reunite to stop the destructive elemental force known as Tundra. NOTE: Also 1st appearance of Omega Flight (Diamond Lil, Wild Child, Flashback,& Smart Alec). Cover price $1.00.

Alpha Flight (1983 1st Series) 1 CBCS 9.8

Paper: White

Direct Edition.

Label #19-279A9AA-021

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"Tundra!" Story and art by John Byrne. Exploding from the pages of the X-Men comes Canada's premier super-team - Alpha Flight! The monstrous Sasquatch, the mystical Shaman, the twins, Aurora and Northstar, the divine Snowbird, the tumbling Puck (1st appearance), the aquatic beauty, Marrina (1st appearance), and their leader, Vindicator, must reunite to stop the destructive elemental force known as Tundra. NOTE: Also 1st appearance of Omega Flight (Diamond Lil, Wild Child, Flashback,& Smart Alec). Cover price $1.00.

Alpha Flight (1983 1st Series) 1 CBCS 9.6

Paper: White

Direct Edition

Label #19-279A9AA-052

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"Tundra!" Story and art by John Byrne. Exploding from the pages of the X-Men comes Canada's premier super-team - Alpha Flight! The monstrous Sasquatch, the mystical Shaman, the twins, Aurora and Northstar, the divine Snowbird, the tumbling Puck (1st appearance), the aquatic beauty, Marrina (1st appearance), and their leader, Vindicator, must reunite to stop the destructive elemental force known as Tundra. NOTE: Also 1st appearance of Omega Flight (Diamond Lil, Wild Child, Flashback,& Smart Alec). Cover price $1.00.

Alpha Flight (1983 1st Series) 1 CBCS 7.5

Paper: White

Direct Edition

Label #23-47F5AB7-001

"Tundra!" Story and art by John Byrne. Exploding from the pages of the X-Men comes Canada's premier super-team - Alpha Flight! The monstrous Sasquatch, the mystical Shaman, the twins, Aurora and Northstar, the divine Snowbird, the tumbling Puck (1st appearance), the aquatic beauty, Marrina (1st appearance), and their leader, Vindicator, must reunite to stop the destructive elemental force known as Tundra. NOTE: Also 1st appearance of Omega Flight (Diamond Lil, Wild Child, Flashback,& Smart Alec). Cover price $1.00.

Alpha Flight (1983 1st Series) 14 CGC 7.5

Paper: White

Label #3963645011

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"Biology Class!" Sub-Mariner cameo. Story and art by John Byrne. The team continues to deal with Guardian's death. However, Puck and Heather may soon be joining Guardian in the afterlife when they meet "What Lurks Below!" Cover price $0.60.

Alpha Flight (1983 1st Series) 16 CGC 9.4

Paper: White

Label #3985540005

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"...And Forsaking all Others...!" Part 2 of 2. Guest-starring Sub-Mariner. Wolverine cameo. Story by John Byrne. Art by John Byrne and Bob Wiacek. Puck, Marrina, and the mighty Sub-Mariner battle the Master of the World with the fate of mankind hanging in the balance. Cover price $0.60.

Alpha Flight (1983 1st Series) 33D CBCS 9.6

Paper: White

Slab: Scuffing on front and back of case

Newsstand Edition.

Label #20-3F90F26-001

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Direct Edition. 1st appearance of Yuriko Oyama as Lady Deathstrike. Yuriko Oyama first appeared in Daredevil #197. "A Friend in Need!" Part 1 of 2. Guest-starring Wolverine. Uncanny X-Men cameo. Story by Bill Mantlo. Art by Sal Buscema and Gerry Talaoc. Cover by Mike Mignola. As Heather attempts to learn how to control the powers of the Vindicator suit she runs into the mutant heroes known as the X-Men. But her reunion with her friend Logan is cut short when an enemy from Wolverine's past shows up seeking revenge. Plus, what is Marrina up to and what does the barbarian Attuma want with her? NOTE: Marvel begins their 25th Anniversary celebration with a new logo in top left corner of the front covers of their books for one year (12 issues). Cover price $0.75.

Alpha Flight (1983 1st Series) 42 CGC 9.2

Paper: White

Label #3985540009

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"Auction!" Part 2 of 2. Story by Bill Mantlo. Art by David Ross and Whilce Portacio. When Kara, the daughter of the Purple Man, meets Alpha Flight her out of control powers of persuasion may just be the death of one member. Plus, who is the Auctioneer, and what are his plans for Purple Girl? Cover price $0.75.

Amazing Heroes (1981) 16 FN+ 6.5

In this issue: New Mutants in-depth preview (predates first appearance in Marvel Graphic Novel); Chris Claremont interview; Green Arrow - who is this masked archer really?; Namor Rex - a historical and sociological look at Prince Namor's undersea kingdom of Atlantis. Plus: Plus: Star Wars comic strip by Archie Goodwin and Al Williamson; Star Hawks comic strip by Archie Goodwin and Gil Kane; Amazing Heroes Newsline; Coming Distractions; Amazing Readers; Comics Review; Grading Comic Books (humor); A Guide to Marvel Reprints - Part 3; Silly Cover #79 by Sluggo Chadwick; Potpourri by Jim Korkis and Don Rosa. Cover by Bob McLeod. 98 pages, B&W. Cover price $1.95.

Amazing Spider-Man (1963 1st Series) 200D CBCS 9.8

Paper: White

Label #16-2B789D7-006

Direct Edition. "The Spider and the Burglar...A Sequel" Script by Marv Wolfman. Art by Keith Pollard (breakdowns) and Jim Mooney (finishes). Cover by John Romita. It's the bicentennial issue of the Amazing Spider-Man! And the web-slinger is going back, all the way back, to the days of Amazing Fantasy 15 to once again confront the criminal that murdered his Uncle Ben! But this time Peter Parker will have to stop the killer without his spider powers! Given a second chance, can the wall-crawler right the wrongs from the past and save his beloved Aunt May? Emotions run at an all-time high for your friendly neighborhood Spider-Man! Brief retelling of Spider-Man's origin. Cameo appearance by Anna Watson. Final appearance of the burglar. Flashback cameo by Ben Parker. (Note: Stan Lee scripts the final page of the story.) Cover price $0.75.

Amazing Spider-Man (1963 1st Series) 204D CGC 9.4

Paper: White

Label #3903225022

Direct Edition. "The Black Cat Always Lands on Her Feet!" Part 1 of 2. Script by Marv Wolfman. Art by Keith Pollard (layouts) and Pablo Marcos (finishes). Cover by John Romita Jr. and Al Milgrom. The web-slinger's favorite feline is back! The Black Cat! Apparently she survived her fall at the end of Amazing Spider-Man 195 and has now developed a new interest in collecting (actually stealing) famous romantic artifacts! The location of her first heist will be Frank Lloyd Wrights architectural masterpiece: the Guggenheim Museum! But that will also be the site of her first reunion with the Spectacular Spider-Man! The (cat) fur is going to fly! Cameo appearances by Dr. Jonas Harrow, J. Jonah Jameson, Joe Robertson, and Flash Thompson. (Notes: This issue completes Marv Wolfman's outstanding 2-year run as the writer of the Amazing Spider-Man title. This two-part story was reprinted in the trade paperback: Spider-Man vs. the Black Cat (2005).) 32 pages. Cover price $0.40.

Amazing Spider-Man (1963 1st Series) 209D FN/VF 7.0

Direct Edition. "To Salvage My Honor!" First appearance of Calypso. Script by Denny O'Neil. Pencils by Alan Weiss. Inks by Klaus Janson, Bob McLeod, Joe Rubinstein, Bob Wiacek, and Al Milgrom. Cover by Alan Weiss. The specter of Spider-Man still haunts Kraven the Hunter! But Kraven's new accomplice, Calypso, has a plan to change that! While delivering a herd of exotic animals to the city, Calypso releases them to run wild in the streets! And then blames the web-slinger for setting them free! After Kraven subdues the loose animals, he vows to make the wall-crawler pay for this (alleged) indignity! And the next evening at the Museum of Natural History, the Amazing Spider-Man and Kraven the Hunter clash again! The survival of the fittest! Cameo appearance by Spider-Woman. (Note: Kraven and Calypso appear next in Spectacular Spider-Man 65.) 32 pages Cover price $0.50.

Amazing Spider-Man (1963 1st Series) 209N CBCS 6.0

Paper: Off white

Newsstand Edition.

Label #22-11A3106-001

Newsstand Edition. "To Salvage My Honor!" First appearance of Calypso. Script by Denny O'Neil. Pencils by Alan Weiss. Inks by Klaus Janson, Bob McLeod, Joe Rubinstein, Bob Wiacek, and Al Milgrom. Cover by Alan Weiss. The specter of Spider-Man still haunts Kraven the Hunter! But Kraven's new accomplice, Calypso, has a plan to change that! While delivering a herd of exotic animals to the city, Calypso releases them to run wild in the streets! And then blames the web-slinger for setting them free! After Kraven subdues the loose animals, he vows to make the wall-crawler pay for this (alleged) indignity! And the next evening at the Museum of Natural History, the Amazing Spider-Man and Kraven the Hunter clash again! The survival of the fittest! Cameo appearance by Spider-Woman. (Note: Kraven and Calypso appear next in Spectacular Spider-Man 65.) 32 pages Cover price $0.50.

Amazing Spider-Man (1963 1st Series) 223N CBCS 7.0

Paper: Off white

Newsstand Edition.

Label #18-1CE79F2-079

Newsstand Edition. "Night of the Ape!" Plot by Denny O'Neil. Script by J.M. DeMatteis. Pencils by John Romita Jr. Inks by Al Milgrom. Cover by John Romita Jr. and Al Milgrom. A quiet night on the Empire State University campus is interrupted by the sudden appearance of the Red Ghost and the Super Apes! Why is the Soviet super-villain visiting the library? Apparently to acquire a special treatise on cosmic radiation! However the web-slinger and his friend, Roger Hochberg, temporarily stop the ghost's quest for knowledge! But the next day the ghost and his gorillas return to the campus to grab Roger! And once again Spider-Man is there! Is the wall-crawler ready for round two in a barrel of monkeys? Cameo appearance by J. Jonah Jameson. Last 50¢ issue. (Note: The Red Ghost previously appeared in Fantastic Four 197 and challenges the web-slinger again in Amazing Spider-Man 255.) 32 pages. Cover price $0.50. Cover price $0.50.

Amazing Spider-Man (1963 1st Series) 228D CGC 9.4

Paper: White

Label #4380743015

Direct Edition. Murder by Spider" Script by Jan Strnad. Pencils by Rick Leonardi. Inks by Dave Simons. Cover by Mike Nasser and Joe Rubinstein. Its a strange tale of murder-for-hire and murder-by-spider! A greedy researcher designs special jewelry that whips spiders into a killing frenzy! And he sells them to the highest bidder...who in turn gives the unique trinkets to someone they want dead! The electronic signal in the jewels attracts the spiders (and Spider-Man) to the intended victim! Can the web-slinger cancel this lethal research project before it grows any more legs? Cameo appearances by J. Jonah Jameson and Joe Robertson. 32 pages. Cover price $0.60.

Amazing Spider-Man (1963 1st Series) 239 FN+ 6.5

"Now Strikes the Hobgoblin!" Second appearance of the Hobgoblin. Script by Roger Stern. Art by John Romita Jr. (breakdowns) and Frank Giacoia (finishes). Cover by John Romita Jr. and Al Milgrom. It's the first fight between the Hobgoblin and the Amazing Spider-Man! And the all-out action begins after the web-slinger bumps into the new goblin at one of Norman Osborn's old hideouts! Spidey is very familiar with the goblin's bag of tricks! But the overmatched Hobgoblin doesn't have any idea about the wall-crawler's speed, strength, and agility! Is the Hobgoblin's criminal career going to be over before it even starts? An outstanding issue! Cameo appearances by Harry Osborn, Madame Web, Captain DeWolff, and the Black Cat. (Notes: The Hobgoblin returns in Amazing Spider-Man 244. This issue was reprinted in Marvel Tales 258.) 32 pages. Cover price $0.60.

Amazing Spider-Man (1963 1st Series) 251 CGC 9.8

Paper: White

Newsstand Edition

Label #4367884001

"Endings!" Part 3 of 3. Plot by Roger Stern. Script by Tom DeFalco. Art by Ron Frenz (breakdowns) and Klaus Janson (finishes). Cover by Ed Hannigan and Klaus Janson. After a pumpkin bomb sets his hideout ablaze, the furious Hobgoblin drives away in his battle van! But unbeknownst to the goblin, the web-slinger is holding on for dear life underneath! When Spider-Man crawls inside...the ferocious fight begins! As the Hobgoblin and the wall-crawler trade blows, the battle van careens into the Hudson River! Is the Hobgoblin going to sleep with the fishes? Only time will tell. Several hours later Spider-Man is drawn towards a mammoth citadel in Central Park...and then suddenly disappears! Cameo appearances by Harry Osborn, J. Jonah Jameson and Joe Robertson. (Notes: The Hobgoblin returns briefly in Amazing Spiderman 255. Tom DeFalco begins his 3-year run as the writer of the Amazing Spider-Man title. Likewise Ron Frenz begins his 3-year run as the primary penciler. This issue includes a full-page ad for the first Marvel Super Heroes Secret Wars Limited Series (where the web-slinger appears next). This three-part story was reprinted in Marvel Tales 259, 260, and 261.) Cover price $0.60.

Amazing Spider-Man (1963 1st Series) 252D CGC 9.6 Direct Variant

Paper: White

Label #4417379001

Direct Edition. First appearance of Spider-Man's new black (alien symbiote) costume in "Homecoming!" Plot by Roger Stern. Script by Tom DeFalco. Pencils by Ron Frenz (breakdowns) and Brett Breeding (finishes). Cover by Ron Frenz and Klaus Janson. One of the landmark issues of the Amazing Spider-Man! With a brilliant flash of light in Central Park, the wondrous wall-crawler is back! And he looks a whole lot different! Wow, a new costume! What happened during the Secret Wars on the Beyonder's world? The ominous truth will be revealed to both the readers and the web-slinger in the days and weeks ahead! Cameo appearances by the Black Cat, Dr. Curt Connors, J. Jonah Jameson, Joe Robertson , Aunt May, Captain America, Captain Marvel, Hawkeye, Iron Man, Thor, and the Wasp. (Notes: Marvel Age 12 contained sketches of the new costume two months prior to the publication of this issue. Spidey's new costume was also unveiled in Marvel Team-Up 141 and Spectacular Spider-Man 90. The first issue of the (1984) Marvel Super Heroes Secret Wars Limited Series was published the same month as Amazing Spider-Man 252. The web-slinger discovers his new costume in issue 8 of the limited series. The Frenz-Janson cover is a tribute to the iconic cover of Amazing Fantasy 15. This story was reprinted in Marvel Tales 266. The letters page contains a statement of ownership: average print run 470,527; average paid circulation: 241,762. Cover price $0.60.

Amazing Spider-Man (1963 1st Series) 252N CGC 9.8 Newsstand Variant

Paper: White

Label #1618494015

Newsstand Edition. First appearance of Spider-Man's new black (alien symbiote) costume in "Homecoming!" Plot by Roger Stern. Script by Tom DeFalco. Pencils by Ron Frenz (breakdowns) and Brett Breeding (finishes). Cover by Ron Frenz and Klaus Janson. One of the landmark issues of the Amazing Spider-Man! With a brilliant flash of light in Central Park, the wondrous wall-crawler is back! And he looks a whole lot different! Wow, a new costume! What happened during the Secret Wars on the Beyonder's world? The ominous truth will be revealed to both the readers and the web-slinger in the days and weeks ahead! Cameo appearances by the Black Cat, Dr. Curt Connors, J. Jonah Jameson, Joe Robertson , Aunt May, Captain America, Captain Marvel, Hawkeye, Iron Man, Thor, and the Wasp. (Notes: Marvel Age 12 contained sketches of the new costume two months prior to the publication of this issue. Spidey's new costume was also unveiled in Marvel Team-Up 141 and Spectacular Spider-Man 90. The first issue of the (1984) Marvel Super Heroes Secret Wars Limited Series was published the same month as Amazing Spider-Man 252. The web-slinger discovers his new costume in issue 8 of the limited series. The Frenz-Janson cover is a tribute to the iconic cover of Amazing Fantasy 15. This story was reprinted in Marvel Tales 266. The letters page contains a statement of ownership: average print run 470,527; average paid circulation: 241,762. Cover price $0.60.

Amazing Spider-Man (1963 1st Series) 252N CBCS 9.0 Newsstand Variant

Paper: Off white

Newsstand Edition.

Label #21-33DD71C-006

Newsstand Edition. First appearance of Spider-Man's new black (alien symbiote) costume in "Homecoming!" Plot by Roger Stern. Script by Tom DeFalco. Pencils by Ron Frenz (breakdowns) and Brett Breeding (finishes). Cover by Ron Frenz and Klaus Janson. One of the landmark issues of the Amazing Spider-Man! With a brilliant flash of light in Central Park, the wondrous wall-crawler is back! And he looks a whole lot different! Wow, a new costume! What happened during the Secret Wars on the Beyonder's world? The ominous truth will be revealed to both the readers and the web-slinger in the days and weeks ahead! Cameo appearances by the Black Cat, Dr. Curt Connors, J. Jonah Jameson, Joe Robertson , Aunt May, Captain America, Captain Marvel, Hawkeye, Iron Man, Thor, and the Wasp. (Notes: Marvel Age 12 contained sketches of the new costume two months prior to the publication of this issue. Spidey's new costume was also unveiled in Marvel Team-Up 141 and Spectacular Spider-Man 90. The first issue of the (1984) Marvel Super Heroes Secret Wars Limited Series was published the same month as Amazing Spider-Man 252. The web-slinger discovers his new costume in issue 8 of the limited series. The Frenz-Janson cover is a tribute to the iconic cover of Amazing Fantasy 15. This story was reprinted in Marvel Tales 266. The letters page contains a statement of ownership: average print run 470,527; average paid circulation: 241,762. Cover price $0.60.

Amazing Spider-Man (1963 1st Series) 252N CBCS 7.0 Newsstand Variant

Paper: Off white to white

Newsstand Edition

Label #24-08F59C3-001

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Newsstand Edition. First appearance of Spider-Man's new black (alien symbiote) costume in "Homecoming!" Plot by Roger Stern. Script by Tom DeFalco. Pencils by Ron Frenz (breakdowns) and Brett Breeding (finishes). Cover by Ron Frenz and Klaus Janson. One of the landmark issues of the Amazing Spider-Man! With a brilliant flash of light in Central Park, the wondrous wall-crawler is back! And he looks a whole lot different! Wow, a new costume! What happened during the Secret Wars on the Beyonder's world? The ominous truth will be revealed to both the readers and the web-slinger in the days and weeks ahead! Cameo appearances by the Black Cat, Dr. Curt Connors, J. Jonah Jameson, Joe Robertson , Aunt May, Captain America, Captain Marvel, Hawkeye, Iron Man, Thor, and the Wasp. (Notes: Marvel Age 12 contained sketches of the new costume two months prior to the publication of this issue. Spidey's new costume was also unveiled in Marvel Team-Up 141 and Spectacular Spider-Man 90. The first issue of the (1984) Marvel Super Heroes Secret Wars Limited Series was published the same month as Amazing Spider-Man 252. The web-slinger discovers his new costume in issue 8 of the limited series. The Frenz-Janson cover is a tribute to the iconic cover of Amazing Fantasy 15. This story was reprinted in Marvel Tales 266. The letters page contains a statement of ownership: average print run 470,527; average paid circulation: 241,762. Cover price $0.60.

Amazing Spider-Man (1963 1st Series) 256D CBCS 9.8

Paper: Off white to white

Direct Edition.

Label #21-273A968-002

Direct Edition. "Introducing...Puma!" Part 1 of 2. First appearance of Puma. Script by Tom DeFalco. Pencils by Ron Frenz. Inks by Joe Rubinstein. Cover by Ron Frenz and Joe Rubinstein. The Rose is tired of the web-slinger interfering in his criminal activities! So the underworld boss brings in an assassin from the American Southwest! Puma! Spidey doesn't much about Puma (aka Thomas Fireheart), but he will...very soon! In the meantime the black symbiote costume keeps Peter Parker up past his bedtime...and then some! Cameo appearances by the Black Cat, Mary Jane Watson, Betty Brant Leeds, and Joe Robertson. (Note: This two-part story was reprinted in Marvel Tales 270 & 271.) Cover price $0.60.

Amazing Spider-Man (1963 1st Series) 258D CGC 9.8

Paper: White

Label #4294998008

Direct Edition. "The Sinister Secret of Spider-Man's New Costume!" Guest-starring Mr. Fantastic and the Human Torch. Script by Tom DeFalco. Pencils by Ron Frenz. Inks by Joe Rubinstein. Cover by Ron Frenz and Joe Rubinstein. Chaos erupts at 410 Chelsea when Mary Jane Watson and the Black Cat meet inside Peter Parker's apartment! Wow, what a shocking development! To say that the web-slinger has some explaining to do...would be the understatement of the year! After the dust settles, the wall-crawler swings over to the Baxter Building to let Reed Richards analyze his new black costume. When Spider-Man learns his costume is "alive," he tries to pull it off; but the alien symbiote has other ideas! Can the Fantastic Four help Spidey with his major wardrobe malfunction? Cameo appearances by the Rose, Hobgoblin, and Puma. (Notes: The Black Cat and Mary Jane Watson are formally introduced to one another in Spectacular Spider-Man 123. The cover does not display the typical UPC box in the lower left-hand corner. This issue was reprinted in Marvel Tales 272.) 32 pages. Cover price $0.60.

Amazing Spider-Man (1963 1st Series) 258D CGC 9.6

Paper: White

Label #4413401002

Direct Edition. "The Sinister Secret of Spider-Man's New Costume!" Guest-starring Mr. Fantastic and the Human Torch. Script by Tom DeFalco. Pencils by Ron Frenz. Inks by Joe Rubinstein. Cover by Ron Frenz and Joe Rubinstein. Chaos erupts at 410 Chelsea when Mary Jane Watson and the Black Cat meet inside Peter Parker's apartment! Wow, what a shocking development! To say that the web-slinger has some explaining to do...would be the understatement of the year! After the dust settles, the wall-crawler swings over to the Baxter Building to let Reed Richards analyze his new black costume. When Spider-Man learns his costume is "alive," he tries to pull it off; but the alien symbiote has other ideas! Can the Fantastic Four help Spidey with his major wardrobe malfunction? Cameo appearances by the Rose, Hobgoblin, and Puma. (Notes: The Black Cat and Mary Jane Watson are formally introduced to one another in Spectacular Spider-Man 123. The cover does not display the typical UPC box in the lower left-hand corner. This issue was reprinted in Marvel Tales 272.) 32 pages. Cover price $0.60.

Amazing Spider-Man (1963 1st Series) 258D CGC 9.6

Paper: White

Label #4413401001

Direct Edition. "The Sinister Secret of Spider-Man's New Costume!" Guest-starring Mr. Fantastic and the Human Torch. Script by Tom DeFalco. Pencils by Ron Frenz. Inks by Joe Rubinstein. Cover by Ron Frenz and Joe Rubinstein. Chaos erupts at 410 Chelsea when Mary Jane Watson and the Black Cat meet inside Peter Parker's apartment! Wow, what a shocking development! To say that the web-slinger has some explaining to do...would be the understatement of the year! After the dust settles, the wall-crawler swings over to the Baxter Building to let Reed Richards analyze his new black costume. When Spider-Man learns his costume is "alive," he tries to pull it off; but the alien symbiote has other ideas! Can the Fantastic Four help Spidey with his major wardrobe malfunction? Cameo appearances by the Rose, Hobgoblin, and Puma. (Notes: The Black Cat and Mary Jane Watson are formally introduced to one another in Spectacular Spider-Man 123. The cover does not display the typical UPC box in the lower left-hand corner. This issue was reprinted in Marvel Tales 272.) 32 pages. Cover price $0.60.

Amazing Spider-Man (1963 1st Series) 259 CBCS 9.8

Paper: Off white to white

Direct Edition.

Label #21-273A968-005

"All My Pasts Remembered!" Script by Tom DeFalco. Pencils by Ron Frenz. Inks by Joe Rubinstein. Cover by Ron Frenz and Joe Rubinstein. After Mary Jane's bombshell revelation to Peter two issues ago, the pair of long-time friends takes a walk together through Central Park. MJ shares her family history with Peter...to make him comfortable with her knowing his secret identity. Where will their relationship go from here? Meanwhile, the Hobgoblin is back in business! And attempting to cut into the Kingpin's action (with help from his new ally: the Rose)! Origin of Mary Jane Watson. Cameo appearances by Mr. Fantastic, She-Hulk, and the alien symbiote. Flashback cameos by Aunt May and Anna Watson. (Notes. The Amazing Spider-Man returns to his original red and blue costume. This issue was reprinted in Marvel Tales 273.) Cover price $0.60.

Amazing Spider-Man (1963 1st Series) 260D CBCS 9.8 Direct Variant

Paper: White

Direct Edition.

Label #21-26FEB0D-003

Direct Edition. "The Challenge of Hobgoblin!" Script by Tom DeFalco. Pencils by Ron Frenz. Inks by Joe Rubinstein and Brett Breeding. Cover by Ron Frenz and Joe Rubinstein. The Hobgoblin and the Rose unleash their two-pronged attack on Harry Osborn! The goblin ambushes Harry at his corporate office, while the Rose's henchmen kidnap Liz Osborn and Mary Jane! Auspiciously, the wondrous wall-crawler is close by to lock horns with the Hobgoblin! But who is going to save MJ and Harry's expectant wife? Could it be the Green Goblin?! Stay tuned! Cameo appearances by Aunt May, Betty Brant Leeds, Joe Robertson, J. Jonah Jameson, Susan Richards, Franklin Richards, and the alien symbiote (costume). (Note: This story was reprinted in Marvel Tales 274.) Cover price $0.60.

Amazing Spider-Man (1963 1st Series) 265A.D CBCS 9.6 SS Rubinstein/Frenz 1st Printing

Paper: White

Verified Signatures: Joe Rubinstein & Ron Frenz. Direct Edition.

Label #22-0668043-001

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First printing. Direct Edition. First appearance of Silver Sable. Script by Tom DeFalco. Pencils by Ron Frenz. Inks by Joe Rubinstein. Cover by Ron Frenz and Joe Rubinstein. "After the Fox!". The Black Fox is on the run! But it's not the Spectacular Spider-Man who's chasing him! It's Silver Sable! An adventurer for hire from the European country of Symkaria! Silver Sable and her Wild Pack pursue the fox through the streets of Manhattan and then later corner him on the waterfront! However, the aging international jewel thief has a wall-crawling guardian angel! Down on the docks, the sparks fly as the web-slinger gives Silver Sable a lesson in diplomacy...superhero-style! Second appearance of the Black Fox. Cameo appearances by Aunt May, Mary Jane Watson, Harry Osborn, Liz Osborn, and Normie Osborn. (Notes: Silver Sable appears next in Amazing Spider-Man 279. The Black Fox returns in Web of Spider-Man 14. There is a second printing of this issue published in 1992. The second printing features a gray cover and a yellow dog ear touting the first appearance of Silver Sable. This story was also reprinted in Marvel Tales 277.) Cover price $0.65.

Amazing Spider-Man (1963 1st Series) 266D CBCS 9.8

Paper: White

Direct Edition.

Label #21-2EDB61E-006

Direct Edition. "Jump for My Love or Spring is in the Air" Script by Peter David. Pencils by Sal Buscema. Finishes by Joe Rubinstein. Cover by Denys Cowan and Joe Rubinstein. The web-slinger catches a suicidal jumper in mid-leap! And to his surprise discovers that the jumper is none other than the Toad...of Brotherhood of Evil Mutants fame! The Toad is down of his luck, but suddenly thinks a partnership with Spider-Man would turn his life around! However the Toad's plan draws the ire of the Frog-Man and the Spider-Kid! They want to be the wall-crawler's partner too! What a group of misfits! Can Spider-Man gracefully bow out of this mess? Cameo appearance by the Black Cat. 32 pages. Cover price $0.65.

Amazing Spider-Man (1963 1st Series) 268 CBCS 9.8

Paper: White

Direct Edition.

Label #21-2EDB61E-014

"This Gold is Mine!" Secret Wars II crossover. Part 2 of 2. Script by Tom DeFalco. Pencils by Ron Frenz. Inks by Joe Rubinstein. Cover by John Byrne. Story continues from Web of Spider-Man 6. In incredible fashion the Beyonder turned Power Man and Iron Fist's office building into gold! Everyone will be rich! But hold on...the world's financial markets will collapse with tons of gold dumped into the global economy! So it's the federal government to the rescue! Under the wall-crawler's watchful eye, the military transports the gold to the west side docks and loads it on cargo ships bound for the Great Puerto Rican trench! However the Kingpin of Crime wants his cut of the gold! So the Arranger and his henchmen hijack one of the ships! Will Spider-Man make the big city pirates walk the plank? Cameo appearances by J. Jonah Jameson, Ned Leeds, Joe Robertson, and Firelord. (Notes: The cover of this issue can be paired with the cover of Web of Spider-Man 6 to form a complete image of the office building turned into gold. Avengers 258 offers a preview of the web-slinger's upcoming battle vs. Firelord. This issue was reprinted in Marvel Tales 278.) 32 pages. Cover price $0.65.

Amazing Spider-Man (1963 1st Series) 268 CBCS 9.8

Paper: White

Direct Edition.

Label #21-2EDB61E-015

"This Gold is Mine!" Secret Wars II crossover. Part 2 of 2. Script by Tom DeFalco. Pencils by Ron Frenz. Inks by Joe Rubinstein. Cover by John Byrne. Story continues from Web of Spider-Man 6. In incredible fashion the Beyonder turned Power Man and Iron Fist's office building into gold! Everyone will be rich! But hold on...the world's financial markets will collapse with tons of gold dumped into the global economy! So it's the federal government to the rescue! Under the wall-crawler's watchful eye, the military transports the gold to the west side docks and loads it on cargo ships bound for the Great Puerto Rican trench! However the Kingpin of Crime wants his cut of the gold! So the Arranger and his henchmen hijack one of the ships! Will Spider-Man make the big city pirates walk the plank? Cameo appearances by J. Jonah Jameson, Ned Leeds, Joe Robertson, and Firelord. (Notes: The cover of this issue can be paired with the cover of Web of Spider-Man 6 to form a complete image of the office building turned into gold. Avengers 258 offers a preview of the web-slinger's upcoming battle vs. Firelord. This issue was reprinted in Marvel Tales 278.) 32 pages. Cover price $0.65.

Amazing Spider-Man (1963 1st Series) 269 CBCS 9.8

Paper: White

Direct Edition.

Label #21-2EDB61E-022

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"Burn, Spider, Burn!" Guest-starring Firelord. Part 1 of 2. Script by Tom DeFalco. Pencils by Ron Frenz. Inks by Joe Rubinstein. Cover by Ron Frenz and Joe Rubinstein. Firelord walks the Earth! And the former herald of Galactus is stirring up trouble in the Big Apple! On his way home from dinner at Aunt May's, the wondrous wall-crawler intercepts the cosmic-powered herald near the East River! However the web-slinger quickly realizes that he needs help from the Avengers or the Fantastic Four! Unable to locate either super team, the wall-crawler thinks about escaping Firelord by simply changing into his civilian clothes! But that course of action would be shirking his responsibility! So it's up to one hero to stop Firelord: the Amazing Spider-Man! (Notes: Firelord previously appeared in Thor 306. This two-part story was reprinted in Marvel Tales 279 & 280.) 32 pages Cover price $0.65.

Amazing Spider-Man (1963 1st Series) 269 CGC 9.8

Paper: White

Label #4379408003

"Burn, Spider, Burn!" Guest-starring Firelord. Part 1 of 2. Script by Tom DeFalco. Pencils by Ron Frenz. Inks by Joe Rubinstein. Cover by Ron Frenz and Joe Rubinstein. Firelord walks the Earth! And the former herald of Galactus is stirring up trouble in the Big Apple! On his way home from dinner at Aunt May's, the wondrous wall-crawler intercepts the cosmic-powered herald near the East River! However the web-slinger quickly realizes that he needs help from the Avengers or the Fantastic Four! Unable to locate either super team, the wall-crawler thinks about escaping Firelord by simply changing into his civilian clothes! But that course of action would be shirking his responsibility! So it's up to one hero to stop Firelord: the Amazing Spider-Man! (Notes: Firelord previously appeared in Thor 306. This two-part story was reprinted in Marvel Tales 279 & 280.) 32 pages Cover price $0.65.

Amazing Spider-Man (1963 1st Series) 272D CBCS 9.8

Paper: White

Direct Edition.

Label #21-2EDB900-003

Direct Edition. "Make Way for Slyde!" Script by Tom DeFalco. Pencils by Sal Buscema. Inks by Kyle Baker. Cover by Ron Frenz and Joe Rubinstein. A new sleek and savvy super-villain bursts onto the scene! Slyde! And this guy is slipperier than a greased pig! When the teflon-coated speedster robs a bank, he garners the attention of the wondrous wall-crawler! But even Spidey can't lay a glove on him! Can anyone stop (the) Slyde? First appearance and origin of Slyde. Cameo appearance by Puma. Last 65¢ issue. (Notes: Slyde returns in Web of Spider-Man 23. Kyle Baker's inks over Sal Buscema's pencils create a very distinctive look. This story was reprinted in Marvel Tales 282.) 32 pages. Cover price $0.65.

Amazing Spider-Man (1963 1st Series) 273 CGC 9.6

Paper: White

Slab: Minor side/edge crack(s)

Label #0142142010

"To Challenge the Beyonder!" Secret Wars II Crossover. Script by Tom DeFalco. Pencils by Ron Frenz. Inks by Joe Rubinstein. Cover by Ron Frenz and Joe Rubinstein. Puma returns to New York City! And brings with him a wonderful idea: team up with Spider-Man and kill the Beyonder! What?! The web-slinger thinks that's crazy! However after a lengthy discussion in his apartment, Peter Parker reluctantly agrees to join Thomas Fireheart on his quest to find the one-from-beyond! Locating the Beyonder may be possible, but defeating him might be impossible! Story continues in Spectacular Spider-Man 111. Cameo appearances by Mary Jane Watson, Ned Leeds, Betty Brant Leeds, and Flash Thompson. Flashback cameos by Captain America, Thor, Wolverine, and the Hulk. First 75¢ issue. 32 pages. Cover price $0.75.

Amazing Spider-Man (1963 1st Series) 293D CGC 9.8

Paper: White

Label #4349021013

Direct Edition. Kraven's Last Hunt: Part 2 of 6 -- "Crawling" Script by J.M. DeMatteis. Pencils by Mike Zeck. Inks by Bob McLeod. Cover by Mike Zeck and Bob McLeod. Story continues from Web of Spider-Man 31. In a shocking development, Kraven the Hunter has buried the Amazing Spider-Man six feet under! And now the deranged hunter is wearing his own spider costume and fighting crime on the streets of New York City! Unbelievable! What in the world is going on?! That's what Mary Jane would like to know as she desperately searches for her newlywed husband! And to make matters worse, there's something horrific coming up from the sewers: Vermin! Story continues in Spectacular Spider-Man 131. (Note: Vermin previously appeared in Marvel Team-Up 128.) 32 pages. Cover price $0.75.

Amazing Spider-Man (1963 1st Series) 296 CGC 9.8

Paper: White

Label #4347876004

"Force of Arms" Part 1 of 2. Script by David Michelinie. Pencils by Alex Saviuk. Inks by Vince Colletta. Cover by John Byrne. Doc Ock has a problem! He's scared of the wall-crawler! And unable to sleep peacefully at the psychiatric hospital where he's undergoing rehabilitation! The doctors don't know what to do! But a surprise reunion with four mechanical friends proves to be the cure-all! And suddenly Doctor Octopus prowls the streets again! Now the person who can't sleep...is your friendly neighborhood Spider-Man! 32 pages. Cover price $0.75.

Amazing Spider-Man (1963 1st Series) 298N VG/FN 5.0

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Newsstand Edition. "Chance Encounter!" Part 1 of 2. Script by David Michelinie. Pencils by Todd McFarlane. Inks by Bob McLeod. Cover by Todd McFarlane. Chance is back in business and working a new job for the Life Foundation! The clandestine organization wants Chance to steal an arms shipment coming into the west side docks! That should be a piece of cake for the high-flying mercenary! However the Daily Bugle dispatches an undercover photographer to observe the delivery! And beneath the moonlit sky, fireworks explode when Chance and the Amazing Spider-Man throw down on the docks! First appearance (and cameo on the last page) by Eddie Brock (aka Venom). First appearance of Carlton Drake of the Life Foundation. Cameo appearances by Mary Jane Watson, Joy Mercado, and Joe Robertson. (Notes: Chance previously appeared in Web of Spider-Man 15. This issue begins Todd McFarlane's 2-year run as the penciler of the Amazing Spider-Man series.) 32 pages. Cover price $0.75.

Amazing Spider-Man (1963 1st Series) 300D CGC 9.8 Direct Variant

Paper: White

Label #4350117003

Direct Edition. Giant-sized 25th anniversary issue. First full appearance of Venom in "Venom!", script by David Michelinie, art by Todd McFarlane; Spidey's old alien costume has merged with reporter Eddie Brock who thinks his career was ruined by Spider-Man and the symbiote of the two, Venom, takes on the web slinger; At MJ's request, Spidey returns to the blue and red costume as she now finds his black duds way too creepy; This is the last issue in which Spider-Man appears in his black costume; Thing (of the Fantastic Four) cameo.. Stan's Soapbox Special in place of letters page: Full page editorial by Stan on the occasion of Spider-Man's 300th issue. 52 pgs., full color. Cover price $1.50.