Fantastic Four ##344
Marvel Comics • Fantastic Four Vol. 1
Writer
Walt Simonson
Interior Artist
Walt Simonson
Cover Artist
Walt Simonson
Publication Date
September 1990
Cover Variant
Regular/Direct Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Part of the 'Into the Time Stream' saga. The Fantastic Four (Mr. Fantastic, Invisible Woman, Human Torch, and The Thing) battle the Stalinist 'Ultimate Machine' in a time-traversing adventure featuring Iron Man and Thor in flashback capacities.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine/Very Fine (CGC 7.0)
Condition Details
Visible moderate spine stressors and ticks along the left edge. Some minor color-breaking creases near the staples. Top-left corner displays minor blunting. Significant accumulation of dust/dirt on the top edge of the cover, likely 'box wear' from sitting in the cardboard box unprotected.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5 - $10; Graded (CGC 9.8): $60 - $80
Recent Sales
Raw copies typically sell for under $10. Recent high-grade CGC 9.8 copies have sold in the $75 range, though demand is moderate for this non-key issue.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for grading. The current raw value is lower than the cost of grading fees. The visible spine wear and surface dirt suggest a grade significantly lower than 9.8, which is the only threshold making this era of book profitable.
Notable Features
Written and drawn by legendary creator Walt Simonson. Features the 'Stalinist' giant robot on the cover. Direct edition (indicated by the star graphic in the UPC box).
Authentication Notes
Appears to be an authentic 1990 copper-age Marvel comic. Paper stock appears to be the standard newsprint/low-gloss bond used by Marvel during this era. Staple placement and ink registration are consistent with mass-production standards of the time.