Fantastic Four ##318
Marvel Comics • Fantastic Four Vol. 1
Writer
Steve Englehart
Interior Artist
Keith Pollard
Cover Artist
Ron Lim
Publication Date
September 1988
Cover Variant
Direct Edition (Spidey Head UPC)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Beyond the Negative Zone! The Molecule Man and the Beyroller battle as the Fantastic Four (featuring the Thing in his newer, spikes-on-skin mutated form) and Doctor Doom get caught in the cosmic crossfire. This issue is part of the lead-up to the 'Secret Wars III' storyline.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine/Very Fine (CGC 7.0)
Condition Details
Visible color-breaking spine stress (ticks) particularly near the upper and lower staples. Minor corner blunting on the top right. Slight cover surface scuffing and edge wear along the top boundary. Generally flat but shows signs of handling wear.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5.00 - $12.00; Graded (9.8): $60.00 - $85.00
Recent Sales
Recent raw copies in similar condition sold for approximately $8.00 on eBay. CGC 9.8 copies have recently sold for roughly $75.00.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The current market value of a mid-to-high grade raw copy is lower than the grading fees. Grading is only financially viable for this issue if it is a guaranteed 9.8 (Near Mint/Mint).
Notable Features
Features Doctor Doom, the Thing (mutated), Molecule Man, and the Beyonder. Iconic Ron Lim cover art. The issue contains a Spidey head icon in the UPC box, indicating it was distributed via the Direct Market.
Authentication Notes
First printing confirmed by the 75-cent price point and lack of later-printing indicators in the indicia. The paper stock and ink saturation appearing in the image are consistent with Marvel's standard 1988 newsprint production.