Fantastic Four ##296
Marvel Comics • Fantastic Four Vol. 1
Writer
Stan Lee (Script), Jim Shooter (Plot)
Interior Artist
Barry Windsor-Smith, Ron Frenz, Others
Cover Artist
Barry Windsor-Smith
Publication Date
November 1986
Cover Variant
Regular (Direct Edition)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
25th Anniversary issue. The story features a gathering of various Marvel heroes as the Fantastic Four face off against the Molecule Man. Key characters appearing include the Avengers, X-Men, Hulk, and Spider-Man. The plot explores the legacy of the team.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine (CGC 8.0)
Condition Details
Visible spine stress marks (some breaking color), minor blunting at the top-right corner, and light surface soiling/yellowing on the white portions of the front cover. Edges show slight shelf wear. Overall structural integrity remains strong.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5 - $15 | Graded (9.8): $60 - $85
Recent Sales
Recent raw copies in similar mid-to-high grade condition have sold for $6 - $12 plus shipping. CGC 9.8 copies average around $75 on auction platforms.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading unless for personal sentimental value. The cost of CGC/CBCS grading exceeds the current raw market value, and the estimated grade (8.0-8.5) does not command a high enough premium to justify the investment.
Notable Features
Anniversary issue featuring an iconic wraparound-style border of Marvel characters celebrating the Marvel Universe 25th Anniversary theme. Features a classic Barry Windsor-Smith cover depicting The Thing in a trench coat and fedora disguise.
Authentication Notes
Authentic 1986 Marvel publication. Notable for the 'Marvel 25th Anniversary' trade dress in the top left corner. Proper newsstand/direct barcode placement and era-appropriate paper stock are present.