Fantastic Four ##271
Marvel Comics • Fantastic Four Vol. 1
Writer
John Byrne
Interior Artist
John Byrne
Cover Artist
John Byrne
Publication Date
October 1984
Cover Variant
Regular / Direct Edition (Spider-Man head UPC replacement)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Story titled 'A Night in the Life...' featuring Reed and Sue Richards in a battle against Gormuu, a giant monster from Reed's past. The story serves as a flashback/retelling of early encounters.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine+ (CGC 6.5)
Condition Details
Visible color-breaking spine stress/ticks; some blunting on the top-right and bottom-left corners; minor surface scuffing on the bottom edge; slight color fade on the yellow masthead; staples appear secure but show minor wear.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $3 - $8; Graded (CGC 9.8): $40 - $60
Recent Sales
Recent raw sales for this issue typically hover around $5. High-grade (CGC 9.8) copies occasionally sell for $50-$70 depending on buyer interest in John Byrne's run.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of the grading service (approx. $25-$40) exceeds the market value of the book in this condition. It is a common 'dollar bin' era book.
Notable Features
Written and illustrated by legendary creator John Byrne; features Gormuu (a pre-FF #1 style monster); 'Direct Edition' indicated by the Spider-Man face in the UPC box; part of John Byrne's seminal 1980s run on the title.
Authentication Notes
First printing confirmed by the 60 cent price point and correct indicia style. No signs of restoration or counterfeiting; standard newsprint paper quality is consistent with 1984 Marvel production.