Auctions: comic books June 1973, graded by CGC

Amazing Spider-Man (1963 1st Series) 121 CGC 5.0

Paper: Off white to white

Label #0280597002

The Green Goblin kills Gwen Stacy in "The Night Gwen Stacy Died," a story that fans still talk about. It was the first big shocking death in comics (perhaps even ushering in the bronze age!). Script writer Gerry Conway is remembered by many as "the writer who killed Gwen" (even though obviously Stan Lee himself okayed a story of this significance). Gil Kane provides the unforgettable pencils, with inks by John Romita Sr. and Tony Mortellaro. Romita cover. The story continues in issue #122. (Reprinted in Marvel Tales # 98 and 192.) 36 pages, full color. Cover price $0.20.

Avengers (1963 1st Series) 112 CGC 9.2

Paper: Off white to white

Label #0274402004

"The Lion God Lives!" First appearance of Mantis. Script by Steve Englehart. Pencils by Don Heck. Inks by Frank Rolle. Cover by Don Heck. A mob of African protesters gathers outside Avengers Mansion and demands that the Black Panther return to his native Wakanda! When T'Challa goes outside to talk, he's kidnapped by their leader, the Lion God! Then the mob disperses and the Avengers are left wondering what just happened! However several hours later, the Lion God returns to the mansion and the no-holds-barred battle begins! Unfortunately, Earth's Mightiest Heroes fall one-by-one until only the Avengers' resident god remains! Can the Mighty Thor bring down the thunder and lightning and silence the Lion God's roar? Meanwhile on the other side of the globe, a mysterious couple makes plans to travel to the United States and join the Avengers. Cameo appearances by Mantis and the Swordsman. Avengers Lineup: Black Panther, Black Widow, Captain America, Iron Man, Scarlet Witch, Thor, and the Vision. 32 pages Cover price $0.20.