Fantastic Four ##49
Marvel Comics • Fantastic Four Vol. 1
Writer
Stan Lee
Interior Artist
Jack Kirby & Joe Sinnott
Cover Artist
Jack Kirby & Joe Sinnott
Publication Date
April 1966
Cover Variant
Regular
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Part 2 of the 'Galactus Trilogy.' Features the first full appearance of Galactus and the second appearance of the Silver Surfer. The story follows the Fantastic Four as they attempt to defend Earth against the world-devouring Galactus.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good/Fine (CGC 5.0)
Condition Details
Moderate spine stress with color-breaking ticks; corner blunting particularly on the top left; slight edge wear on the right side; minor surface scuffing on the dark background; potential page tanning consistent with 1960s paper stock.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $1,200 - $1,500; Graded (CGC 5.0): $1,800 - $2,200
Recent Sales
CGC 5.0 copies have recently sold between $1,750 and $2,100. Lower mid-grade raw copies consistently fetch over $1,000 due to key issue status.
Grading Recommendation
Highly recommended for grading. This is a primary silver age key. A professional clean and press could potentially elevate it to a 5.5 or 6.0, significantly increasing marketability and protection.
Notable Features
First full appearance of Galactus; second appearance of Silver Surfer; iconic Jack Kirby cover; part of the legendary Galactus Trilogy (issues #48-50).
Authentication Notes
Signs of authenticity include appropriate 12-cent cover price, IND (Independent News) distribution mark, Silver Age paper texture, and correct color registration of the 1966 printing process.