Fantastic Four ##386
Marvel Comics • Fantastic Four Vol. 1
Writer
Tom DeFalco
Interior Artist
Paul Ryan
Cover Artist
Paul Ryan
Publication Date
March 1994
Cover Variant
Direct Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Part of the 'Starblast' crossover event. The storyline features Ben Grimm (The Thing) in an exo-suit to hide his scarred face. Lyja the Lazerfist (the Skrull posing as Alicia Masters) is a central character as she goes into labor during a galactic crisis involving the Stranger.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine- (7.5)
Condition Details
Visible color-breaking spine stress/ticks along the left edge. The bottom left corner shows minor blunting (rounding). Some surface rubbing and minor indentations are visible on the front cover. Edges show slight shelf wear. Staples appear secure but with minor stress pulling.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $3 - $8 | Graded (estimated 7.5-8.0): $25 - $35
Recent Sales
Recent raw copies in similar condition sold for between $2.00 and $5.00. NM/MT graded copies reach $60+, but lower mid-grades typically stay below the cost of grading fees.
Grading Recommendation
Not worth grading. The cost of CGC/CBCS submission (approx. $25-$40 plus shipping) far exceeds the market value of the comic in this condition. Recommended for preservation in a bag and board for personal collection.
Notable Features
Starblast Crossover (Part 11). Features the Thing's temporary armored look. Notable for the subplot involving Lyja's pregnancy. Direct Edition with barcode and 'Direct Edition' text in the upper left corner.
Authentication Notes
Authentic 1990s Marvel production. Standard glossy cover cardstock with newsprint-style interior pages. Correct UPC/Direct Edition barcoding for the era. Spine construction and ink density are consistent with original 1994 pressings.