Fantastic Four ##198
Marvel Comics • Fantastic Four Vol. 1
Writer
Marv Wolfman
Interior Artist
Keith Pollard
Cover Artist
Keith Pollard and Joe Sinnott
Publication Date
September 1978
Cover Variant
Direct Edition (Whitman Multi-Pack Variant)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Invasion! The Fantastic Four battle Dr. Doom. Mr. Fantastic attempt to invade Dr. Doom's royal palace in Latveria to rescue his teammates. This issue is part of a multi-issue arc involving Doom's search for the power of the Silver Surfer.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good (CGC 4.0)
Condition Details
Visible color-breaking spine stress, significant corner blunting (specifically bottom right), rounded corners, edge wear on the right margin, and a large crease visible near the bottom right corner. Minor surface scuffing and dulling of cover gloss.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5-$12 / Graded (9.0+): $45-$65
Recent Sales
Raw copies in mid-grade condition typically sell for $8-$10. High-grade slabbed copies see limited movement due to the high volume of supply and low key value of this specific issue.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The costs of grading exceed the raw market value, and the condition is too low to realize a significant return on investment; best kept as a reader copy.
Notable Features
This is likely a Whitman Multi-pack edition (indicated by the blank UPC box/diamond price box), which was distributed in polybags in department stores. It features a Dr. Doom cover appearance.
Authentication Notes
The blank white UPC box is a standard indicator for Marvel Whitman direct distribution in late 70s. Ink saturation and paper aging are consistent with late Bronze Age Marvel stock.