Metropolis/ComicConnect is back at San Diego Comic-Con with Vincent Zurzolo joining top staffers at two booths. They are showcasing vintage comics at booth #5516 and original art at booth #4406, which features a first look at their upcoming Amazing Spider-Man Original Art Auction.

ComicConnect is presenting Gil Kane and John Romita’s pages from Amazing Spider-Man #96-97. These classic issues began with the U.S. Department of Health, Education, and Welfare consulting with Stan Lee about Marvel addressing drug abuse within their popular titles. Marvel’s chief creative responded by focusing on Harry Osborn’s drug addiction as part of a new Green Goblin storyline, while also having Spidey deal with the dangers of drug abuse on Manhattan’s streets.

The controversial storyline had Marvel then facing challenges from the Comics Code Authority, with Lee ultimately choosing to release the comics without the agency’s approval. This Amazing Spider-Man Original Art Auction launches on September 17, 2026, and is the first time that these pages have ever been available to collectors. Additionally, the auction features a page from John Romita’s debut on the title with Amazing Spider-Man #39, revealing the terrible twist of the Green Goblin first discovering Spider-Man’s secret identity.

They will also offer San Diego Comic-Con attendees a first look at pieces from the upcoming Event Auction 67. Those include a scarce Fantastic Four #48 9.9, a Wonder Woman #1 8.5, and a rare copy of All-Negro Comics #1, and original art like Frank Miller’s glowering Batman for a Dark Knight Returns store display.

Metropolis/ComicConnect will also have checkbooks in hand as they meet with collectors to buy single comics or entire collections with interest free cash advances. Zurzolo can be reached by emailing vincentz@metropoliscomics.com to set up an appointment, or consignors can get in touch with Original Art Coordinator Micah Spivak at micahs@comicconnect.com.