Marvel Comics - The Amazing Spider-Man #344 (02/1991) - CGC 7.0 Universal Grade - Graded Comic Book

Marvel Comics’ The Amazing Spider-Man #344 is dated February 1991 and is offered here as a CGC 7.0 Universal Grade. This English-language issue from the original Amazing Spider-Man series contains the first cameo of Cletus Kasady, the man who later becomes Carnage. In addition, this issue marks the first full appearance of Cardiac. As such, the comic holds a concrete place in the history of Spider-Man and his adversaries.

In the story "Hearts and Powers," Spider-Man investigates a supply of chemicals and finds himself facing Cardiac and Rhino. Cardiac’s methods raise the question of where heroism ends and vigilantism begins. David Michelinie writes the story, Erik Larsen provides the artwork, and Randy Emberlin handles the inking. Eddie Brock also appears in this issue, which precedes the later development of Cletus Kasady into Carnage.

The cover brings Spider-Man, Cardiac, and Rhino together, tying in with the confrontations in the story. This copy has been graded 7.0 by CGC, designated as Fine/Very Fine, and encapsulated in a transparent holder with a Universal label, keeping the cover visible for display. The grade reflects the condition of the comic; any scratches or damage to the plastic holder are not included in this assessment.

For collectors following the introductions surrounding Carnage, it is the early appearance of Cletus Kasady that is the distinguishing feature of this issue. This release also fits well within a collection of Erik Larsen’s Spider-Man work or the original Amazing Spider-Man series. The assigned grade clarifies the condition category. This slab is intended for collection and display; for reading the story, a separate reading copy is more practical.