Fantastic Four ##49
Marvel Comics • Fantastic Four Vol. 1
Writer
Stan Lee
Interior Artist
Jack Kirby
Cover Artist
Jack Kirby
Publication Date
April 1966
Cover Variant
Regular/Direct (12-cent cover)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Second part of the legendary 'Galactus Trilogy.' Includes the first full appearance of Galactus and the second appearance of the Silver Surfer. The story 'If This Be Doomsday!' features the Fantastic Four's desperate struggle against the planet-consuming cosmic entity.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good (CGC 4.0)
Condition Details
Visible spine stress and color-breaking ticks along the spine; blunted and rounded corners, particularly top left and bottom right; minor surface wear and vertical creasing near the right edge; slight oxidation of colors and visible handling wear; pages likely show tanning/cream to off-white based on age and external condition.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $600 - $900 USD; Graded (CGC 4.0): $1,000 - $1,300 USD
Recent Sales
Copies in VG (4.0) condition have recently sold between $950 and $1,400 depending on eye appeal and shell clarity. Higher grades (9.0+) command over $15,000.
Grading Recommendation
Highly Recommended. Even in mid-to-low grade, this is a major Silver Age key. Professional pressing could potentially improve the grade to a 5.0 (VG/FN). Grading provides protection and liquidity for this high-demand issue.
Notable Features
First full appearance of Galactus; second appearance of the Silver Surfer; Jack Kirby 'Galactus' cover art; key Silver Age mega-key.
Authentication Notes
The 12-cent price point, layout of the 'Marvel Comics Group' box, and specific color registration are consistent with original 1966 printings. No immediate signs of being a reprint (such as those found in Marvel Tales or modern facsimiles) are visible.