Fantastic Four ##223
Marvel Comics Group • Fantastic Four Vol.1
Writer
Doug Moench
Interior Artist
Bill Sienkiewicz and Joe Sinnott
Cover Artist
Bill Sienkiewicz and Joe Sinnott
Publication Date
October 1980
Cover Variant
Regular/A Cover (Direct Edition)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Title: 'Back to the Basics!' The Fantastic Four engage in a high-stakes showdown with the Salem's Seven (the magical grandchildren of Agatha Harkness). The team must stop the Seven's attempt to sacrifice them to gain ultimate power.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine/Very Fine (CGC 7.0)
Condition Details
Moderate spine stress with some color-breaking ticks; slight corner blunting on top right; visible surface wear on the black background of the title; the bottom right corner shows some minor creasing/wear. Bagged/boarded which may hide some minor edge wear.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5 - $12; Graded (9.0+): $45 - $65
Recent Sales
Recent raw copies in similar mid-to-high grade condition have sold between $6 and $10. Graded 9.6 copies typically sell for around $80.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The costs of grading ($35+) exceed the raw market value, and the book is not a major key issue unless it is a guaranteed 9.8 specimen.
Notable Features
Features the Salem's Seven; 'Toys R Us' promotional banner on top of cover; Direct Edition (indicated by the UPC barcode box with no strike-through).
Authentication Notes
The comic appears authentic based on the 50 cent price point, color density of the 1980s Marvel paper stock, and the correct Direct Edition UPC placement for the era.