Nintendo Power Magazine Issue #85 (Ken Griffey Jr. Winng Run Cover)
Nintendo of America · Books & Media > Magazines > Video Game Collectibles
Era / Decade
June 1996 (Mid-90s). The mailing label date code 'AUG96' and coverage of Super Mario RPG confirm this era.
Material
Glossy paper stock and newsprint interior; standard staple-bound magazine construction.
Condition
Fair to Good. Significant wear is present: a mailing label is affixed to the front, noticeable edge wear and corner creasing, a small tear on the left spine edge, and some light surface scuffing on the cover.
Demand Level
Strong. Nintendo Power has a dedicated cult following, and issues featuring top-tier games like Super Mario RPG or N64 exclusives maintain steady velocity.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$20.00 - $35.00 (Low: $15 with heavy wear; Mid: $25 standard; High: $45+ if posters/cards are included inside).
Estimated Retail Value
$3.50 (original 1996 cover price).
Comparable Sales
Recent sales for Issue #85 in similar 'Good' condition range from $22 to $30. Copies with the subscriber label typically sell for 20% less than newsstand versions without labels. Mint copies with posters included can exceed $55.
Description
Vintage June 1996 Nintendo Power Magazine Issue 85 featuring MLB star Ken Griffey Jr. on the cover. This issue includes an exclusive 4-page N64 preview, in-depth coverage of Super Mario RPG, and Lufia II. A nostalgia-heavy piece for SNES and early N64 collectors, featuring the iconic 'Winning Run' branding.
Key Features
Crossover appeal between sports (Ken Griffey Jr.) and gaming; features 'Super Mario RPG' which is a high-demand title among collectors; includes N64 launch era content; original Nintendo Seal of Quality branding.
Authenticity Indicators
Original Nintendo of America Redmond, WA address on front; period-correct advertisements; specific mailing label font and barcode. Confidence: High.
Flaws to Note
Original subscriber mailing label on front cover (lowers value for completionists); corner bumping and rounding; light tearing on the left-hand side spine; overall shelf wear consistent with age and flat storage.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay is the primary market for vintage gaming media. Mercari is also a strong secondary choice for the 'gamer' demographic.
Selling Tips
Check the centerfold for posters or Power Cards; if they are present and intact, the value doubles. Photograph the table of contents and any Mario-related artwork inside. Ship in a 'stay-flat' cardboard mailer with a poly bag and board to prevent bending during transit. Use keywords: 'Vintage Nintendo Power', 'Super Mario RPG', 'Ken Griffey Jr', 'Retro Gaming'.