Fantastic Four #46
Marvel Comics • Fantastic Four Vol. 1
Writer
Stan Lee
Interior Artist
Jack Kirby, Joe Sinnott
Cover Artist
Jack Kirby, Joe Sinnott
Publication Date
January 1966
Cover Variant
Regular/Direct Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
First full appearance of Black Bolt and the first appearance of the Inhuman known as The Seeker. This issue continues the Inhumans saga where the Fantastic Four must deal with the Inhuman Royal Family and the mystery of the 'Great Barrier'.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine- (CGC 7.5)
Condition Details
Visual inspection shows light spine stress marks and minor corner blunting. There appears to be a slight wave to the cover likely from storage (non-color breaking). The colors remain vibrant with minimal tanning on the edge of the cream-colored background. No major creases or tears are visible through the poly-bag.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $300 - $450; Graded (7.5): $600 - $750
Recent Sales
Recent 7.5 CGC sales have averaged around $650; raw copies in mid-to-high grade typically sell for $350-$500 depending on page quality.
Grading Recommendation
Highly Recommended. This is a significant Silver Age key. A professional 'Press and Clean' would likely help resolve the cover waves and potentially push the grade toward an 8.0, significantly increasing marketability.
Notable Features
Key Issue: 1st full appearance of Black Bolt. 1st appearance of The Seeker. Part of the iconic Inhumans storyline. Classic Jack Kirby cover art featuring the Inhumans and the Fantastic Four.
Authentication Notes
Authentic Silver Age 12-cent Marvel comic. The aging of the paper (off-white to cream), the specific dot-matrix printing visible in the red banner, and the staple placement are consistent with 1966 production standards.