The Amazing Spider-Man #98

Published in 1971, The Amazing Spider-Man #98 serves as the concluding chapter of a landmark three-part story arc that challenged the restrictive Comics Code Authority. The narrative, penned by Stan Lee with art by Gil Kane and John Romita Sr., depicts the dangers of drug abuse by showing Harry Osborn’s struggle with addiction, a choice made at the request of the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare despite the Code's explicit prohibition of depicting narcotics.

The issue is historically significant for forcing a revision of the industry-wide Comics Code. Because Marvel released the story without the organization's seal of approval, the bold move demonstrated that the industry was ready to move toward more mature, socially conscious storytelling. The design and visual presentation were grounded in the era’s grittier aesthetic, and the widespread critical support for this decision effectively pressured the Comics Code Authority to modernize its regulations shortly thereafter.