Tape on the spine... 0

[Michiro]

Tape on the outside of spine...

Hi all. I've recently and locally seen a Silver Age comic at a local flea market that I am interested in. It looks like a VG/VG+ or better, but when I pulled it out the the bag, I noticed some transparent/translucent tape holding the spine together somewhat. I don't think it is archival tape (I am guessing magic), but it was done very inconspicuously as to not draw attention to itself. Question is, what does the tape do to the book's apparent grade? I don't have a picture of it, but I do believe the book is secured to the staples. If the grade doesn't take a big hit, it might be worth it to add to the collection as it still presents nicely.

Thanks. 

Edited April 25, 2017 by Michiro

[rjpb]

How much tape, the full length of the spine, or a couple inches?

[Michiro]

I can't say for sure, but I would think much of it. It is one of the squared spine books from the 60s and the tape is pretty inconspicuous. When I saw it in the mylar, I didn't even notice it. I only noticed it when I took it out of the bag.

[Bomber-Bob]

I thought the 60's square bound books had the cover glued to the book. The wraps were attached by a larger than normal staple but the cover was not attached to the staples.

[marvelmaniac]

4.0 VERY GOOD (VG):  Back to Top
The average used comic book. Cover shows moderate to significant wear, and may be loose but not completely detached. Cover reflectivity is low. Can have moderate creases or dimples. Corners may be blunted. Store stamps, name stamps, arrival dates, initials, etc. have no effect on this grade. Some discoloration, fading, foxing, and even minor soiling is allowed. As much as a 1/4" triangle can be missing out of the corner or edge; a missing 1/8" square is also acceptable. "Only minor unobtrusive tape and other amateur repair allowed on otherwise high grade copies." Moderate spine roll may be present and/or a 1" spine split. Staples may be discolored. Minor to moderate staple tears and stress lines may be present, as well as some rust migration. Paper is brown but not brittle. Minor to moderate interior tears may be present. Centerfold may be loose or detached at one staple.

[rjpb]

If the tape is what is holding the front or back cover on, I'd personally consider it around a 1.5 if the book otherwise looks to be VG+. If it's there to cover some partial splits and reinforce the spine , but still runs the length, maybe a 2.0.