Fantastic Four ##314
Marvel Comics • Fantastic Four Vol. 1
Writer
Steve Englehart
Interior Artist
Sal Buscema
Cover Artist
Sal Buscema
Publication Date
May 1988
Cover Variant
Direct Edition (Spiderman head in UPC box)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
The Fantastic Four encounter Belasco, a character from the X-Men/Magik mythos. The story involves the team being transported to another dimension. This era features the temporary lineup including The Thing, Ms. Marvel (Sharon Ventura), Crystal, and the Human Torch.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine- (CGC 7.5)
Condition Details
Visible color-breaking spine stress/ticks on the left edge. Minor blunting on the top right corner. Slight edge wear along the top periphery. Surface gloss appears well-preserved, but there is a slight curve/roll to the right side possibly from storage.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $3 - $8 | Graded (9.8): $40 - $60
Recent Sales
Raw copies typically sell in bulk lots or for under $10. CGC 9.8 copies have recently sold in the $50 range, mostly driven by series collectors.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of the grading service (approx $25-$35 + shipping) exceeds the market value of the comic in this mid-to-high grade condition. It is a common 'dollar bin' era issue.
Notable Features
Features Belasco (Key X-Men villain). Direct Edition indicated by the Spider-Man portrait in the UPC box. Part of the 'The World's Greatest Comic Magazine' masthead era.
Authentication Notes
The comic appears to be an authentic 1988 original. The aging of the paper at the edges is consistent with 35+ year old newsstand-grade interior stock. No signs of reproduction or counterfeiting.