In reality, the most I've actually ever paid for a comic was about $375 for a slabbed 9.8 UXM #121 and it's a beaut. $300 is way too hot for a AF#1 at 9.8, unless it's signed by ... Stan or JB.

The most I've paid for original art was in the $300 range, and that was from v3 (Clayton Henry's amazing stuff).

I've thought about this quite a bit. I've literally stood in front of artwork worth thousands and had to make this decision. Phil remembers me bringing him over to a dealer selling the original artwork from the Alpha Flight/X-Men Byrne Portfolio piece (I didn't buy, that was 5 figures). Basically if something appeals to me with strong AF content, I'm in. No limit except to what I could afford. Original art is most expensive you get for AF stuff, and since it keeps its value, I say go for it. The enjoyment factor is so high that I'd rather have the piece than the money.