Clone Saga (1994-1996):arc controversial but rich in key issues. Key issues: Web of Spider-Man #117 (1st Ben Reilly/Scarlet Spider), Amazing Spider-Man #394 (flip cover), Spectacular Spider-Man #226 (clone reveal), New Warriors #67 (Scarlet Spider joins the team). Web #117 CGC 9.8 = $100–200. Maximum Alpha/Omega Cloning set = $40–80 in 9.8.
LaClone Saga(1994-1996) is the most controversial story arc in Spider-Man history. Initially planned to last a few months, it extended over more than two years through four simultaneous series (Amazing, Spectacular, Web of, Spider-Man). Although criticized at the time for its complexity and incessant twists, it produced enduring characters (Ben Reilly, Kaine) and key issues that are highly sought after today.
In 2026, the Clone Saga enjoys renewed nostalgic interest. The Ben Reilly: Spider-Man (2022) series and Ben Reilly's appearances in current comics have rehabilitated the character for a new generation. Keys from this period remain accessible compared to other Spider-Man eras, offering interesting upside potential.
Web of Spider-Man #117: the main key issue
Web of Spider-Man #117 (October 1994) is considered the entry point to the Clone Saga and contains the first appearance of Ben Reilly in the Scarlet Spider costume:
| CGC grade | Price (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 9.8 (NM/MT) | $100 – $200 | High circulation but high demand |
| 9.6 (NM+) | $40 – $70 | Good value for money |
| 9.4 (NM) | $25 – $40 | Accessible |
| 9.2 and below | $10 – $20 | Minimum entry point |
Why this number is important:Ben Reilly is the clone of Peter Parker created by the Jackal. His Scarlet Spider costume (sleeveless red hoodie over blue bodysuit) became iconic and influenced generations of character designs. The character has his own passionate fan base.
Variants:Web #117 exists in standard edition and prismatic edition (foil cover). The foil version is slightly more valued (+20-30% in high grade).
The other major key issues from the Clone Saga
The Clone Saga spans approximately 100 issues across four series. Here are the most important ones:
First appearances and transformations:
- Amazing Spider-Man #394 (Oct. 1994):Flip cover, official start of the Clone Saga in ASM. Power and Responsibility part 1. $30 – $60 in CGC 9.8.
- Spider-Man #51 (Oct. 1994):Ben Reilly fights as the Scarlet Spider for the first time. Foil cover. $25 – $50 in CGC 9.8.
- Spider-Man #52 (Nov. 1994):First appearance of Spidercide. $20 – $35 in CGC 9.8.
- Web of Spider-Man #119 (Dec. 1994):First appearance of Kaine (failed clone). $30 – $55 in CGC 9.8.
- Amazing Spider-Man #400 (April 1995):Death of Aunt May (later retracted). Elegant white cover. Birthday number. $40 – $80 in CGC 9.8.
Revelations and turning points:
- Spectacular Spider-Man #226 (July 1995):Revelation that Peter is the clone and Ben the original (later reversed). Prismatic cover. $30 – $55 in CGC 9.8.
- Sensational Spider-Man #0 (January 1996):Ben Reilly takes over as official Spider-Man. Lenticular cover. $25 – $45 in CGC 9.8.
- Spider-Man #75 (December 1996):Death of Ben Reilly, official end of the Clone Saga. Peter becomes Spider-Man again. $30 – $60 in CGC 9.8.
Maximum Cloning and other special events
The “Maximum Clonage” arc represents the climax of the saga with special issues:
- Maximum Alpha Cloning (1995):Start of the final crossover, chromium cover. $20 – $40 in CGC 9.8.
- Maximum Cloning Omega (1995):Conclusion, prismatic coverage. $20 – $40 in CGC 9.8.
- New Warriors #67 (1996):Scarlet Spider joins the New Warriors. Unexpected crossover that gains in value. $15 – $30 in CGC 9.8.
- Amazing Scarlet Spider #1-2 (1995):Ben Reilly's solo miniseries. $15 – $30 each in CGC 9.8.
- Scarlet Spider #1-2 (1995):Another solo mini-series. $15 – $25 each in CGC 9.8.
Complete “Maximum Cloning” set (Alpha + Omega) in CGC 9.8:$40 – $80. Chromium/Prismatic covers are likely to show micro-scratches that prevent 9.8.
Collecting the Clone Saga: approaches and budget
The Clone Saga is an ideal collector's item for modest budgets:
Minimalist approach (key issues only):
- Web #117 + ASM #394 + PPSSM #226 + Spider-Man #75 in CGC 9.8 = $200 – $400 total
- These four issues summarize the arc: introduction, development, revelation, conclusion
Complete approach (all tie-ins):
- Around 100-120 issues in total across all four series + specials
- NM raw budget: $300 – $600 for the set
- Most non-key numbers can be found at $2-5 each in NM condition
Investment outlook:Clone Saga key issues are among the most underpriced in the Spider-Man universe in 2026. If Ben Reilly gets a live-action adaptation (rumors circulate regularly), prices could double or triple from their current levels. The risk/reward ratio is favorable given the minimal investment required.
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