Amazing Spider-Man #122 The Death of the Green Goblin and a Bronze Age Spider-Man Classic

Some comic books are remembered for introducing a famous character. Others are remembered for an unforgettable cover or storyline. Amazing Spider-Man #122, published by Marvel Comics in 1973, is remembered for something much bigger: one of the most dramatic confrontations in Spider-Man history.

Featuring the apparent death of Norman Osborn, the original Green Goblin, this Bronze Age key issue concludes a two-part storyline that helped change the direction of Spider-Man comics.

For collectors of vintage Marvel comics, Amazing Spider-Man #122 remains an important book, especially when paired with the preceding issue, Amazing Spider-Man #121.

The Story Behind the comic

Published with a July 1973 cover date, Amazing Spider-Man #122 features the story “The Goblin’s Last Stand!”, written by Gerry Conway, with interior pencils by Gil Kane and artwork contributions from legendary Spider-Man artist John Romita Sr.

The issue follows one of the most shocking events in Marvel history: the death of Gwen Stacy in Amazing Spider-Man #121.

Devastated by the loss of Gwen, Peter Parker confronts the Green Goblin, the villain responsible for her death. What follows is an emotional battle between Spider-Man and Norman Osborn that ends with the Green Goblin being impaled by his own glider.

Although Marvel would eventually bring Norman Osborn back, his apparent death in this issue remained a defining moment in Spider-Man history for decades.

The story also demonstrates one of the qualities that makes Spider-Man such an enduring character: even after defeating his greatest enemies, Peter Parker must continue living with the consequences of loss.

 

Why this Is an Important Key Issue

There are several reasons collectors consider Amazing Spider-Man #122 an essential Bronze Age Marvel comic.

1. The Apparent Death of the Original Green Goblin

Norman Osborn is one of Spider-Man’s most recognizable enemies. His apparent death in this issue was a major development for the character and the series.

2. The Conclusion of a Landmark Spider-Man Storyline

Issues #121 and #122 are closely connected. Together, they tell the story of Gwen Stacy’s death and Spider-Man’s confrontation with the Green Goblin. Many collectors seek both issues as a matching pair.

3. Classic John Romita Sr. Cover Artwork

John Romita Sr. helped establish the visual identity of Spider-Man during the Silver and Bronze Ages. His dramatic cover for issue #122 remains a memorable example of classic Marvel superhero artwork.

4. An Important Piece of Bronze Age Comic History

The early 1970s brought increasingly serious storytelling to mainstream superhero comics. The events of Amazing Spider-Man #121–122 are frequently cited as an important turning point in that evolution.

Collecting Amazing Spider-Man #122 Today

For collectors building a run of the original Amazing Spider-Man series, issue #122 is one of the standout books from the early 1970s.

Unlike many common issues from the same period, this comic has a major storyline connection, historical importance, and an iconic villain associated with it.

Collectors typically consider several factors when purchasing a copy, including:

• Condition: Higher-grade copies can be especially desirable, but attractive mid-grade examples offer another way to own the book.
• Original editions: Collectors should distinguish original 1973 copies from later reprints and facsimile editions.
• Professional grading: CGC certification provides an independently assigned grade and encapsulation.
• Signatures: Copies signed by creators associated with the issue can offer additional appeal to autograph and Spider-Man collectors.

As with many vintage comics, the exact value of Amazing Spider-Man #122 depends on condition, page quality, certification, and buyer demand.

A Special Signed Copy: CGC x JSA 6.5 John Romita Sr.

One particularly interesting way to collect this issue is to find a copy signed by one of the artists who helped bring it to life.

We currently have an Amazing Spider-Man #122 the death of Green Goblin, graded CGC x JSA 6.5 and signed by John Romita Sr., available through our AustinVintageToys eBay store.

What makes this copy special is the combination of a significant Bronze Age Spider-Man storyline.  The artist signature adds to its classic cover.

John Romita Sr. was instrumental in shaping Spider-Man’s appearance.  His signature adds a personal connection to the creative history of this issue.

The CGC x JSA certification gives collectors a professionally graded comic.  The JSA certification ensures the authenticated signature.

View Our Amazing Spider-Man #122 CGC x JSA 6.5 Signed John Romita on eBay

Is Amazing Spider-Man #122 Worth Adding to Your Collection?

For Spider-Man collectors, Amazing Spider-Man #122 has several things working in its favor: an important storyline, a major villain, classic Bronze Age artwork, and a lasting place in Marvel history.

It is also a natural companion to Amazing Spider-Man #121.   This makes the pair particularly appealing to collectors who enjoy assembling complete storylines.

Whether you are building a complete Amazing Spider-Man run or you are collecting major Green Goblin appearances or you are looking for historically significant Marvel comics, issue #122 deserves consideration.

At AustinVintageToys, we enjoy finding vintage comics that represent important moments in comic book history.  Amazing Spider-Man #122 is certainly one of those books.

Browse Our Amazing Spider-Man #122 Signed and Graded Comic on eBay

Comic availability and pricing are subject to change.