X-men 221 question- cover defect? 1 1

[CheeseFrog]

Hi folks,

I’m putting together my next CGC shipment and was planning on including this X-men 221.

It’s a gorgeous copy, and I think it has a solid chance at a 9.8.

Although… one thing has me worried.  What is this little mark between the staple and “SEPT?”  

Is that something from the initial printing?  Does anyone have an idea how this could effect the grade?

Pictures below… I’ve included a couple different angles of the area in question.  Any insight is greatly appreciated…

 

 

 

[CheeseFrog]

I’m pretty certain it’s ink.

[comicginger1789]

On 12/31/2021 at 8:43 PM, CheeseFrog said:

I’m pretty certain it’s ink.

I had similar spot near top staple of my AM 361 I sent in. I cleaned it with my tools and removed the smudge from mine. Don't think it is a printing error though, just ink/contact smudge. Might not get a 9.8 though if present....

[theCapraAegagrus]

Not a MFG defect that I am aware of. A dry cleaning may fix it.

[CheeseFrog]

Thank you for the feedback, folks!

Ran across this while looking around today.  The first I’ve seen with the same mark:

 

[The Lions Den]

I think you've answered your own question...  

[CheeseFrog]

I think you’re right!   

 

[lostboys]

So itd be a 9.9 without it?

[CheeseFrog]

I doubt that!

It looks like the mark is a printing defect present on some copies, and doesn’t have an effect on the grade.

Eye appeal, maybe.