Uncanny X-Men: Facsimile Edition #266 CGC 9.8 Kirkham "Virgin" Edition, 2nd appearance and first cover of Gambit, #266 Reprint (cert 8002)

Why it's Hot:

• Reprints:
• 2nd appearance and first cover of Gambit
• 1st chronological appearance of Gambit in-story / in-continuity
• X-Men Annual #14 went on sale three weeks before this issue and is often considered the first cameo appearance of Gambit
• This would imply that his appearance is brief though he appears in 15 panels throughout X-Men Annual #14 with at least 10 instances of dialogue
• Tap cover and swipe left to view images where Gambit is the main or partial focus of the sequence in X-Men Annual #14
• Uncanny X-Men #266 was written as if it were to be published prior to the annual, therefore #266 would be the first chronological appearance of Gambit in-story (or in-continuity)
• CGC, the grading certification company for comic books, recognizes Uncanny X-Men #266 as the first full appearance of Gambit
• [April 2026 - Lee Sung Jin (Beef) is writing the X-Men reboot script and has specifically expressed his affection for Gambit / July 2026 - Milo Manheim (Zombies) is rumored to be considered for the role of Gambit in the X-Men reboot]
• Tyler Kirkham cover

Synopsis:

"Gambit!" Part 2 of 3: The Hounds are closing in on the young thief named Storm. Her only hope may lie in the hands of a mysterious and charming stranger. Plus, the Shadow King wants Mystique dead.