What is the most sought after Fantastic Four?
Ah, the Fantastic Four — Marvel’s first family of superheroes and a longtime favorite for collectors. When it comes to the “most sought-after” Fantastic Four comic, a few key contenders always come up:
**1. Fantastic Four #1 (1961)**
The holy grail. The very first issue by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby. It’s iconic, historically massive, and ridiculously expensive. High-grade copies are multi-six-figure territory or beyond. This issue launched the entire Marvel Universe as we know it.
**2. Fantastic Four #48 (1966) — “The Galactus Trilogy” begins**
This is where the Silver Surfer and Galactus make their first appearances. Not just a Fantastic Four key, but a cornerstone of Marvel cosmic lore. Variant covers or signed copies add extra juice here.
**3. Fantastic Four #52 (1966)**
Conclusion of the Galactus trilogy — Silver Surfer’s debut as a full character and some of the most coveted Silver Surfer moments. Highly prized, especially in good condition.
**4. Fantastic Four #57 (1966)**
First appearance of Black Panther. A huge cultural milestone and a gem for both Fantastic Four and Marvel fans in general.
**5. Fantastic Four #5 (1962)**
First appearance of Doctor Doom. Doom is the quintessential FF villain, so this issue is a staple for collectors.
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If you’re asking *right now*, the most sought-after might shift slightly depending on market trends, but **Fantastic Four #1** always takes the crown for sheer historical and financial weight. Outside of that, #48 and #57 have been gaining tremendous traction recently, especially with the Marvel cinematic universe spotlighting those characters.
By the way — you mentioned you have that Mico Suayan “Death of the Silver Surfer” #1, which is a rad, limited variant, but it won’t nearly eclipse those golden-age FF keys. Still, limited editions with popular artists can fetch solid money in the right collector circles.
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Want me to break down the *why* behind these choices or dig into the top variants and modern keys? Or maybe the weirdest or cheapest keys with hidden potential?
This is what is advertised: Fantastic Four #48
Felipe Massafera Shared Exclusive
First appearance of Silver Surfer!
Trade LTD to only 3000
Guaranteed 9.4 – 9.8
Ah, the **Fantastic Four #48 Felipe Massafera Shared Exclusive** variant — a beauty for sure. Here’s the skinny on it:
– **Why it’s hot:**
It’s a variant of the *classic* Fantastic Four #48, the *true* first appearance of Silver Surfer and Galactus. That’s already a key comic. Now add Felipe Massafera’s exclusive art style—he’s got a cult following for his vibrant, stylized covers.
– **Limited to 3,000 copies:**
That’s rare enough to drive some collector hype, but not so rare as to be insanely expensive. It strikes a sweet middle ground.
– **Guaranteed 9.4–9.8 grade:**
That means it’s high quality, near-mint to mint — the grade range that really moves the needle on value.
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**Is it the most sought after Fantastic Four?**
Nope, not the OG #48 itself — that’s the “holy grail” base comic, especially in high grade. But this variant is definitely one of the most collectible modern *variants* of Fantastic Four #48, because it combines:
– The **historic importance** of the story
– The **limited print run**
– The **artistic cachet** of Massafera
– The **high grade guarantee**
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**In other words:** It’s a very desirable *variant*, not the *absolute most* sought FF key, but it holds strong value, especially among modern collectors who love variants and art covers. It’s a smart pick if you want something flashy tied to one of Marvel’s most legendary issues.
Want me to sketch out how this variant’s market might move in the next 5 years? Or the potential risk it faces?
Well then is this a reprint?
Good question. The Felipe Massafera Shared Exclusive for **Fantastic Four #48** is *not* a reprint of the original comic story; it’s a **variant cover edition** of the original *first printing* issue.
Let me break it down:
– **Original Fantastic Four #48 (1966):** The actual first printing with the classic Kirby/Lee story inside.
– **Variant Cover:** Same interior story and pages as the original, but with a new cover illustration (in this case, by Felipe Massafera) printed at the same time or later as a limited variant edition.
– **Not a Reprint:** Reprints typically mean a later printing with the same or slightly modified interior content, often with a different cover and lower value. But this variant is part of the *original first printing* run, just with an alternate cover.
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**Why it matters:**
This means your Felipe Massafera variant has the *original story,* same 1966 paper quality, and is considered a *first printing* comic — very important for collectors. It’s not a later reprint edition or a second printing that usually dilutes value.
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So to sum up:
**It’s not a reprint, just a limited variant cover on the original first print of Fantastic Four #48.** That’s why it commands a higher price and collectible status.
If you want, I can explain the difference between first printings, variants, and reprints in more detail—it’s a frequent source of confusion!
Why is it only $15.00? Discounted to $7.50??
$15—or $7.50 discounted—for a **Felipe Massafera Shared Exclusive** variant of *Fantastic Four #48*? That’s suspiciously low, borderline “too good to be true” territory for something tied to a legendary issue with a limited print run.
Here’s the catch:
1. **Modern Print Runs Flooding the Market:**
Even limited to 3,000, variants get printed *en masse* by big retailers and websites. That supply can quickly outpace collector demand, driving prices down.
2. **Not a Key First Appearance:**
The real key is the original *first printing* without variant covers. Collectors hunting Silver Surfer’s *true first appearance* usually pay premium for that OG copy, not variants.
3. **Condition & Grading?**
The “Guaranteed 9.4–9.8” might be from the seller, not an official CGC or CBCS grading. Without third-party verification, value drops a lot.
4. **Market Saturation and Timing:**
If it’s being discounted heavily, it likely means sellers want to clear stock fast. These variants often get discounted post-launch or when hype dies down.
5. **Non-Prestige Status:**
While cool for fans, variants rarely hit the same investment level as keys unless they are super low print runs (hundreds, not thousands), or from mega-popular artists or events.
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**Bottom line:**
At $15 or $7.50, it’s a *fun collectible* variant, but **not an investment-grade key**. The price reflects supply and demand, not the historic importance of the story inside.
If you want real value, hunt down a high-grade *OG first print* of FF #48 without the variant sticker price.
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Want me to run through how to spot variants that might *actually* appreciate, versus those that are mostly fan-art collectibles?
300 – 25th ANNIVERSARY – GIANG TRADE – LTD 1000
New comic named “300 “- 25th ANNIVERSARY – GIANG TRADE – LTD 1000
Ah, now this is a different beast:
**Fantastic Four #48 — 25th Anniversary Giang Trade Variant — Limited to 1,000 copies**
– **Only 1,000 copies:** That’s tighter scarcity than the 3,000 Felipe Massafera variant, so fewer out there chasing it.
– **Anniversary editions tend to carry more hype:** Celebrating a milestone (25 years) adds collector appeal, especially with a cool artist like Giang.
– **Trade Variant:** Usually means it’s a variant released mainly through comic shops or select retailers, often with a more collectible cover or different finish.
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**Why does scarcity matter?**
Cutting the print run from 3,000 to 1,000 means each copy is 3x rarer — which can drive price *way* higher, assuming collector demand matches.
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**If this one is selling for $300,** that sounds about right for a rare 25th Anniversary limited variant tied to a key issue like FF #48, especially if in high grade or graded officially.
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**Comparing the two:**
– Felipe Massafera variant (3,000 copies, ~$7–15) = more common, accessible, fun collectible.
– Giang 25th Anniversary (1,000 copies, ~$300) = rarer, anniversary prestige, stronger investment potential.
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So, **that $300 price tag checks out with scarcity and collector interest,** unlike the more common 3,000-copy variants priced way lower.
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Want me to help you judge which variant is a better flip or long-term hold? Or how to verify if a variant is legit and graded well?
Ah, a new comic titled **”300” — 25th Anniversary — Giang Trade — LTD 1000**? That sounds like a limited edition variant or special anniversary print of Frank Miller’s *300*, which originally exploded on the scene in 1998.
Let’s break down what makes this interesting — and what to watch for:
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### Why it might matter:
– **25th Anniversary:** Milestone editions often attract collectors who want something commemorative.
– **Limited to 1,000 copies:** That’s a decent scarcity level—low enough to keep it collectible but high enough to flood the market if demand isn’t strong.
– **Giang Trade Variant:** Likely an exclusive cover artist (Giang), offering unique artwork not found in the original print.
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### What to watch for:
– **Is it a first printing or a reprint?**
Anniversary editions typically reprint the original story with a new cover. So the interior story isn’t new, just the packaging.
– **Is it graded or raw?**
Without a high grade or signature, even limited prints can struggle to hold value.
– **Is the artist well-known?**
Giang’s popularity matters. If Giang is a rising star or has a cult following, this variant could command higher prices.
– **Market hype and demand:**
*300* has a loyal fanbase, but anniversary editions usually don’t skyrocket unless paired with movie tie-ins, signed copies, or ultra-low print runs.
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### Skeptical outlook:
Limited to 1,000 sounds collectible but not rare enough to guarantee appreciation, especially for a 25-year-old title that’s been reprinted many times. The comic market can get flooded with “limited” runs that don’t move much.
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**Verdict:**
Cool for fans and collectors of *300*, but treat it as a niche collectible, not an instant goldmine. Wait and see if the artist or event behind it pumps real demand.
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Want me to help you spot the real hidden gems in limited modern editions? Or break down how to track market value shifts on these anniversary prints?
How about a 7th printing of Absolute Batman #1
Ah, the **7th printing of Absolute Batman #1** — now that’s a comic that tells a very different story than those golden-age rarities.
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### What’s going on here?
– **Absolute Batman #1** is a **prestige deluxe edition** of the classic Batman #1 story from 1940, but presented in a giant, high-quality hardcover format with extras. These “Absolute Editions” are luxury collector items but not original first prints.
– A **7th printing** means it’s been reprinted *six times already*—and publishers usually do this to meet ongoing demand or replenish stock. The more printings, the less rare any single copy is.
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### Market impact:
– **No collector premium:**
7th printings are practically mass-market by collector standards. They’re for fans who want the Absolute Edition but don’t care about scarcity.
– **Value:**
These editions generally don’t appreciate much. They’re great for reading and display, but not a solid investment.
– **Condition:**
Condition matters here for resale, but print run volume swamps scarcity.
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### So why buy?
– If you want a gorgeous, oversized, high-quality Batman book with extras and no hunting for a first print, these later Absolute printings are affordable and accessible.
– But **don’t expect a price jump** like a rare variant or first appearance key.
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### Bottom line:
7th printing = convenience and availability, not rarity or big bucks.
If you’re hunting for Batman key issues to invest in, you want original Golden Age singles (Batman #1 original 1940 first printing), or rare variants with low print runs.
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Want me to list the real Batman “holy grails” or the best modern keys with upside?
ABSOLUTE BATMAN #10 CVR B GABRIELE DELL OTTO CARD STOCK VARiety?
iturn0image0turn0image1turn0image3turn0image4The **Absolute Batman #10 Cover B Gabriele Dell’Otto Card Stock Variant** is a visually striking comic book that showcases Dell’Otto’s renowned artistic style. Scheduled for release on **July 9, 2025**, this variant features a unique cover art that distinguishes it from the standard edition.
**Key Details:**
– **Title:** *Absolute Batman #10 Cover B Gabriele Dell’Otto Card Stock Variant*
– **Release Date:** July 9, 2025
– **Cover Artist:** Gabriele Dell’Otto
– **Condition:** Near Mint (NM)
– **Retail Price:** Approximately $5.99
**Availability:**
This variant is available for pre-order at various comic retailers, including:
– [A&S Comics](https://www.ascomics.com/product/absolute-batman-10-cover-b-gabriele-dell-otto-card-stock-variant/)
– [SifiToys](https://sifitoys.com/products/absolute-batman-10-cover-b-gabriele-dell-otto-card-stock-variant)
– [District Comics](https://district.net/product/absolute-batman-10-cvr-b-gabrie-508ed)
– [Stadium Comics](https://www.stadiumcomics.com/collections/july-2025/products/absolute-batman-10-cvr-b-gabriele-dell-otto-variant)
– [G-Mart Comics](https://www.g-mart.com/static/g0525DC039.html)
**Collectibility:**
While this variant offers a unique artistic interpretation of the Batman universe, it’s important to note that variants like this are often produced in higher quantities and may not hold significant long-term value compared to first appearances or rare editions. However, for collectors and fans of Gabriele Dell’Otto’s work, this variant provides an opportunity to own a piece of Batman history with distinctive artwork.
If you’re interested in adding this variant to your collection, consider pre-ordering from the listed retailers to secure your copy upon release.
What signatures bring the most return
When it comes to comic book signatures that bring the most return, it’s a blend of **who signed**, **the comic’s importance**, and **scarcity**. Here’s the quick-and-cynical breakdown:
### Top Signature Value Drivers
1. **Creators of Iconic Characters & Stories**
– **Stan Lee** (RIP but always golden): The godfather of Marvel. His signature on any Marvel key boosts value drastically.
– **Jack Kirby** (also passed, so rare and sought): Co-creator of Fantastic Four, X-Men, Hulk, etc. His autograph is a holy grail.
– **Steve Ditko:** Co-creator of Spider-Man and Doctor Strange. His signed comics are rare and highly prized.
– **Frank Miller:** Especially on Batman, Daredevil, or *300* comics, his signature commands respect and money.
– **Jim Lee:** The 90s superstar artist and current DC bigwig—signed copies of his work hold solid value.
2. **Actors/Stars Tied to the Comic**
– **Adam West:** Batman fans go nuts for his signature.
– **Tom Holland:** Spider-Man fans love him.
– **Robert Downey Jr.:** Iron Man signatures on key comics add a lot.
– **Gal Gadot:** Wonder Woman signatures have surged post-DCEU.
– **Nicholas Cage:** His autograph on *Ghost Rider* or *Spider-Man* #1 variants can spike prices.
3. **Rare & Unexpected Signers**
– Writers or artists who rarely sign — think **Alan Moore** or **Moebius** — their signatures are like gold dust.
– Celebrities outside comics who sign variants or key issues, e.g., musicians or directors with cult status.
4. **Multi-Signed Copies**
– Comics signed by both writer *and* artist, or even the whole creative team, can multiply value, but only if they’re *all* legit and relevant.
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### What kills value:
– **Forgery or Non-Authenticated signatures** (duh).
– **Over-signed or “certificate mill” stickers** that flood the market.
– **Signatures on non-key, mass-market issues** with no demand.
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### Bonus tip:
**Signature placement and quality matter.** A clean, well-placed signature with a date or sketch (like a quick character doodle) often fetches more.
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### TL;DR
**Stan Lee + Jack Kirby = jackpot** (even posthumously). Then creators of your comic’s key characters. Actor signatures have huge hype spikes but can be fickle. Unique signatures from rare signers or multi-signed keys can also pay off big.
Want me to help you vet if a signature’s legit or if it’s worth hunting for a specific signer on your favorite comic?
What artist just died?
As of July 2, 2025, the most recent notable comic book artist to pass away is **Jim Shooter**, who died on June 30, 2025, at the age of 73 after a battle with esophageal cancer. Shooter was a pivotal figure in the comic book industry, known for his work as a writer, editor, and publisher. He began his career at DC Comics at just 14 and later became the editor-in-chief at Marvel Comics during a transformative period in the 1980s. Shooter introduced strict editorial policies, visionary projects, and helped elevate sales, making Marvel a dominant force in the comic book world. His tenure saw the rise of titles like *X-Men* and the introduction of crossover events that reshaped the industry. citeturn0news12
Another significant loss in the comic book community was **John Cassaday**, who passed away on September 9, 2024, at the age of 52. Cassaday was an Eisner Award-winning artist known for his work on *Astonishing X-Men*, *Planetary*, and *Captain America*. His art was celebrated for its cinematic quality and attention to detail, leaving a lasting impact on the industry. citeturn0search6
Additionally, **Peter David**, a legendary comic book writer known for his work on *Incredible Hulk* and *Young Justice*, passed away in 2024 at the age of 68. David’s storytelling and character development have left an indelible mark on the comic book world. citeturn0search2
These individuals have made significant contributions to the comic book industry, and their legacies continue to influence creators and fans alike.
Who is Jae Lee?
iturn0image0Jae Lee is a Korean-American comic book artist renowned for his distinctive, atmospheric style that blends gothic, surreal, and minimalist elements. Born in 1972, he began his professional career in 1991 with Marvel Comics, illustrating a Beast story in *Marvel Comics Presents* #85–92. His breakthrough came in 1992 with *Namor the Sub-Mariner*, where he succeeded John Byrne as the series’ artist. Lee’s work on *Namor* showcased his unique approach to storytelling and character design, setting him apart in the comic book industry. citeturn0search0
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### 🖋️ Notable Works
– **Hellshock (Image Comics, 1994):** A creator-owned series that delves into the life of a fallen angel, blending psychological depth with supernatural themes. citeturn0search0
– **The Inhumans (Marvel Comics, 1998):** Collaborating with writer Paul Jenkins, Lee’s artwork on this series earned them the 1999 Eisner Award for Best New Series. citeturn0search0
– **The Dark Tower (Marvel Comics, 2007–2010):** Lee adapted Stephen King’s iconic series into comics, capturing the dark and epic tone of the novels. citeturn0search0
– **Before Watchmen: Ozymandias (DC Comics, 2012):** A prequel to Alan Moore’s seminal work, Lee’s art brought a fresh perspective to the Watchmen universe. citeturn0search0
– **Batman/Superman (DC Comics, 2013):** Lee’s illustrations in this series highlighted the dynamic between two of DC’s most iconic characters. citeturn0search0
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### 🏆 Awards & Recognition
– **1999 Eisner Award:** Best New Series for *The Inhumans*. citeturn0search0
– **2002 Eisner Award Nomination:** Best Cover Artist for *Fantastic Four: 1234*. citeturn0search0
– Exhibited at the Society of Illustrators Museum in New York. citeturn0search5
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### 🎨 Style & Influence
Lee’s art is characterized by its moody atmospheres, intricate linework, and a penchant for dramatic compositions. His influences include Frank Frazetta and Bernie Wrightson, which is evident in his dynamic and emotive storytelling. citeturn0search1 His collaborations with colorist June Chung have further enhanced the depth and mood of his work.
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### 📅 Recent Activities
In 2024, Lee participated in a private signing event with Certified Guaranty Company (CGC), offering fans the opportunity to have their comics signed and graded. citeturn0search8 He continues to be active in the comic book community, attending conventions and engaging with fans. citeturn0search4
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### 🔗 Learn More
For a deeper dive into Jae Lee’s work and artistic journey, visit his official website: [theartofjaelee.com](http://theartofjaelee.com/). Here, you can explore his gallery, read about his creative process, and stay updated on his latest projects.
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Jae Lee’s contributions to the comic book industry have left an indelible mark, and his work continues to inspire both fans and fellow artists alike.
0624VL555
Sale
Lilith #1 (Of 5) B Jae Lee Variant (09/11/2024) Vault
Here’s the lowdown on **Lilith #1 (of 5) Cover B – Jae Lee Variant (UPC 0624VL555, 09/11/2024)** from Vault Comics:
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### 📉 Current Market Price
– **Retail & Pre‑order:** Sold new at around **$4.99**, often discounted to ~$4.50–$5.75 at sites like Midtown Comics citeturn0search11turn0search7.
– **eBay Listings:** Generally selling for **$3.99–$4.49** in NM/VF–NM condition citeturn0search1turn0search15turn0search2.
– **Shop Sales:** Listed as low as **$2.50** on Golden Apple Comics citeturn0search6.
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### 🔍 What This All Means
– **Not a rare incentive or super‑limited print.**
Cover B is a standard variant, not a premium like a 1:25 or 1:50 incentive citeturn0search8turn0search9.
– **Jae Lee’s name adds style—not price.**
His signature art attracts fans visually, but this isn’t scarce enough to drive investment-grade value.
– **Condition matters—but floor is low.**
Near-mint examples hover around $4–$5. Lower grades drop to $2–$3.
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### ✅ Bottom Line
If you snag this for around cover price ($5) or under, you’re getting a nice-looking variant for your collection—but don’t expect a big payoff down the road. It’s a fan piece, not a collector’s treasure.
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### 💎 Want to level up?
Ask me about securing one of the **Full‑Art or Deluxe Jae Lee variants (1:25 or 1:50)**—those limited runs have much stronger potential upside.