Fantastic Four #49

The top selling comic book last month was Fantastic Four 49

Fantastic Four #49 was one of the best-selling comics at Comic Buying Center in November, known for its storyline and first full appearance of two very powerful and famous cosmic beings. Who are they? Why are people who sell comic books still interested in this issue after so many years? Just a little spoiler to get you interested – the record fantastic four #49 value is $192,000!

Fantastic Four comic series

The original “Fantastic Four” comic series, created by a legendary duo of writer Stan Lee and artist Jack Kirby, debuted in November 1961. This series introduced readers to Marvel’s First Family: Reed Richards (Mister Fantastic), Sue Storm (Invisible Woman), Johnny Storm (Human Torch), and Ben Grimm (The Thing). The comic was actually groundbreaking because it introduced superheroes with human flaws and interpersonal conflicts. Which was a noticeable leap from idealized heroes of the era. The series quickly gained popularity, leading to the introduction of iconic characters such as Doctor Doom and the Silver Surfer. Jack Kirby illustrated the first 102 issues before departing in 1970. The original run continued until 1996, concluding with issue #416. Over its 35-year lifespan, the series featured contributions from some of the best writers and artists, including Roy Thomas, John Buscema, and John Byrne, each adding something unique to the volume.
fantastic four #49 value
Fantastic Four 49

Fantastic Four 49

Fantastic Four 49, published in April 1966, is one of the most famous issues in Marvel Comics history, serving as the first full appearance of Galactus and the first cover appearance of both Galactus and the Silver Surfer. The story, titled “If This Be Doomsday!”, continues the saga of the Fantastic Four’s attempt to save Earth from the planet-devouring entity called Galactus. As Galactus begins assembling his world-consuming device, the Watcher sends the Human Torch on a mission to retrieve a weapon capable of stopping this threat.

Meanwhile, the Silver Surfer, initially an ally to Galactus, encounters Alicia Masters, whose compassion leads him to question his master’s intentions and ultimately rebel against him. This issue, created by legendary duo of writer Stan Lee and artist Jack Kirby, is known for its storytelling and artwork, truly a classic. At the time of its release, the fantastic four number 49 was priced at 12 cents. Today, it is highly popular among collectors.

How much is the fantastic four 49

Recent Sales:

  • High-Grade Copies. In November 2022, a CGC 9.8 (Near Mint/Mint) copy sold for $192,000, setting a record for fantastic four issue 49.
  • Mid-Grade Copies. A CGC 6.5 (Fine+) copy, which sold for $140 in 2009, has seen its value increase to approximately $1,350 in recent years.
  • Low-Grade Copies. A CGC 2.0 (Good) copy, previously valued at $26 in 2009, now costs roughly $305.

Factors Influencing Value:

  • Condition. One of the main factors influencing the fantastic four 49 value is its grade, with higher-grade copies getting premium prices.
  • Historical Importance. As the first full appearance of Galactus and the second appearance of the Silver Surfer, this issue holds noticeable importance in the Marvel Universe.
  • Pete Przysiezny, owner of Comic Buying Center, has been buying and selling comics and collectibles for over 30 years. He lives in Northern Illinois and specializes in buying large comic book collections. He has a vast knowledge of all eras and types of comic books ranging from the 1930s to the 2000s. Pete spent his childhood going to comic book conventions with his father, so you could say he was raised in the industry.