Fantastic Four ##231
Marvel Comics Group • Fantastic Four Vol. 1
Writer
Doug Moench
Interior Artist
Bill Sienkiewicz
Cover Artist
Bill Sienkiewicz
Publication Date
June 1981
Cover Variant
Regular Direct Edition (UPC Barcode present)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Storyline 'In Search of the Yesterday Quest!'. The Fantastic Four (Mr. Fantastic, Invisible Girl, Human Torch, and The Thing) venture into the Negative Zone and encounter the classic villain Psycho-Man. This issue is part of the Bronze Age run of the series.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good (CGC 4.0)
Condition Details
Significant visible wear including heavy spine stress and color-breaking ticks along the left edge. Observable vertical creasing on the left side near the spine (subscription crease or handling fold). Top and bottom corners show blunting and minor rounding. Slight color fading and edge wear present around the perimeter.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $3 - $8; Graded (CGC 4.0): $25 - $35
Recent Sales
Comparable low-to-mid grade raw copies typically sell for under $10. High-grade (9.8) copies range from $150 to $200, though this copy does not meet that threshold.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of the grading service (approx. $25-$40) exceeds the market value of the comic in this condition. Best kept as a reader copy or in a bag and board for personal collection.
Notable Features
Features an early Bill Sienkiewicz cover. Includes Psycho-Man appearance. This is the Direct Edition (indicated by the barcode in the lower-left corner).
Authentication Notes
Authentic 1981 production. Correct 50-cent cover price, aged newsprint paper visible on page edges, and period-correct Marvel Comics Group header.