Marvel. 1964. CGC certified: VF (8.0). Cream to off-white pages. Stan Lee story. Steve Ditko cover and art. 1st appearance: the Sinister Six. Cameos by the Fantastic Four, Thor, Giant Man, Wasp, Iron Man, Dr. Strange and the X-Men. 15 pin-ups.

According to Stan Lee, "Back then, in the '60s, we were so thrilled and grateful for the wonderful reception Spidey was given by the reading public that we wanted to return the favor" (Marvel Masterworks: The Amazing Spider-Man Vol. 2). The result of Stan's largesse was this massive 76-page mag, crammed full of villains and guest stars. Includes a special feature, "How Stan Lee and Steve Ditko Create Spider-Man!" Stan, in a confessional mood, has an exasperated Ditko remark that "I do the drawing while you practice signing your name all over!"

A limited edition of 100 softcover and 15 hardcover catalogues are available. Over 200 pages, fully illustrated. Fun reference, great keepsake. Softcovers $40, dust-jacketed hardcover with limitation plate $200. To order, contact ivan@pbagalleries.com or call 415-989-2665

R. Crumb says, "I found [PBA's catalogue] so interesting that I am saving it for the texts that accompany the comics which were put up for auction. This is some of the best commentary I've yet seen on the quality of the content of comic books. I especially enjoyed the reviews of the post-war horror comics. Great. Priceless."

Consignments welcome for PBA's Spring 2021 Comic Book sale. Pre-Code Horror, Golden Age and Silver Age comics, original art and ephemera sought. Send inquiries to ivan@pbagalleries.com or call 415-989-2665