The Fantastic Four has been at the heart of Marvel Comics since their debut in 1961, introducing some of the most iconic characters and storylines in comic book history. From the first appearance of the Fantastic Four to legendary battles with villains like Doctor Doom and Galactus, these Fantastic Four key issues have become some of the most sought-after collectibles. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the world of Marvel’s First Family, these seven essential issues are a must for any collection.
Which Era is the most important for the Fantastic Four?
By the far the Silver Age of comics (1956 to early 70’s) had some of the most important Fantastic Four stories and characters in the history of Marvel.
- RELATED: Top 10 Marvel Key Issues (Ranked)
7 Fantastic Four Key Issues for Collectors
Fantastic Four #1 (1962)
First appearance of the Fantastic Four
The legend of the first family creation is fascinating. One version that lasted years as the truth until it was debunked by Michael Uslan states that Martin Goodman was playing golf with one of the executives of National Publishing(DC).
They mentioned how well Justice League of America was selling and this perked the ears of Goodman. Goodman, who was known as a trend follower in publishing, directed his editor Stan Lee to create their own superhero team.
Stan Lee, a legend in comics himself gave a different take and said he found the comic book medium to be too restrictive and he wanted to create characters and storylines that he could relate to.
He wanted to create a team of superheroes that were flesh and blood. Ones that had the same problems that normal people had, the same failures and triumphs.
Lee also credited Jack Kirby with the look of the Fantastic Four.
Later on Kirby told a different story and took credit himself for the with input from Lee. Who actually came up with the idea for the Fantastic Four and its first issue has been debated for years. After years of speculation and debate with both men now passed away I think we can say the Fantastic Four was co-created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby.
What we know for sure is that Stan Lee wrote the script for the first issue and Kirby did the art.
This first issue, while also introducing Marvel’s first family, includes the first appearances of Mole Man, Giganto, Tricephalous. This comic is one of the most coveted by Marvel fans and has broken records in sales at auctions.
In September 2024 a CGC graded 9.6 sold for over $2,000,000.
Fantastic Four #5 (1962)
First appearance of Doctor Doom!
One of the greatest villains ever created in comic books. Doctor Doom first appearance was in Fantastic Four #5. Victor Von Doom has been one of the main adversaries of the First Family ever since.
Not only has Doctor Doom been a thorn in the side of Fantastic Four he has crossed over to fight the Avengers many times. He is also slated to make his debut in the MCU in 2026 in Avengers Doomsday being played by Robert Downey Jr.
Fantastic Four #48-50 (1966)
The Galactus Trilogy
Issues 48 to 50 introduce two more beloved characters in the Marvel Universe. Galactus is the planet-eating monster who comes to Earth to devour its elemental energies.
Issue #48
Includes the first appearance of the Silver Surfer, a herald and scout of Galactus. At the end of issue 48 Galactus’ ship the Taa II appears above earth. Galactus exits his ship and declares his intention to devour earth. This is considered a cameo.
Issue #49
This is the first appearance of Galactus and the first cover appearance of the Silver Surfer. In this issue the FF try to attack Galactus and fail. The Watcher tries to intervene on behalf of Earth and pleads with Galactus to leave Earth alone. Galactus does not listen and begins to assemble his planet eating machine.
Issue #50
The final issue in the Galactus Trilogy. The conclusion sees Silver Surfer have a change of heart and help stop Galactus. This also introduces the Ultimate Nullifier, a weapon created by The Watchers that can stop Galactus. Reed threatens to use it against Galactus and Galactus agrees to leave Earth alone.
An iconic cover by Jack Kirby with the Silver Surfer.
Fantastic Four #52 (1966)
First Appearance of the Black Panther
This is one of the most culturally important issues in the civil rights movement during the 60’s. It introduces T’Challa the king of Wakanda otherwise known as the super hero Black Panther. He was the first black super hero in mainstream American comics.
The Nation of Wakanda
Subsequent issues make the nation of Wakanda essential to the history of the Marvel Comic and Cinematic universe. It is the source of Vibranium, a metal used to create Cap’s famous shield. And the source of Advanced Wakandan technology.
Fantastic Four #4 (1962)
Return of Namor The Sub-Mariner
This brings the return of Namor the Sub-Mariner to the Marvel Comic Book universe. Namor was first introduced in 1939 in the Motion Picture Funnies Weekly #1, this was the Golden Age of the comic industry.
It took 22 years for Namor to be reintroduced and it was in Fantastic Four issue four. This also includes the first use of the Human Torches catch phrase “Flame on!”
Fantastic Four #45 (1965)
The first team appearance of the Inhumans
This issue sees the culmination of a couple of cameos in previous issues. It’s the first team appearance of the Inhumans. A race that lives on the moon. It consists of Triton, Karnak, Lockjaw, Gorgon, Medusa, Crystal and Black Bolt!
Fantastic Four Annual #6
First Appearance of Annihilus and Franklin Richards
This is one of the bigger issues in Fantastic Four history. It introduces another big villain in Annihilus the ruler of the Negative Zone. Annihilus has been rumored for a long time to be coming to the MCU.
It also introduces Franklin Richards, the son of Reed and Sue. At the time Franklin was considered the most powerful mutant in the universe.
How to collect Fantastic Four Key Issues
Current Market Value
The biggest Fantastic Four Key issues are the first six issues. Issue one is outreach for most collectors even in a low grade. Its average sale even at a low grade is over twelve thousand dollars.
Issue Five is more affordable at low grade at an average price of thirty five hundred dollars. Issues two through four are more affordable at low grade. With averages of less than one thousand dollars.
These key issues across the board are about to go up as the Fantastic Four are about to be introduced to the MCU this July.
Tips for Collectors
There are numerous reprints and facsimiles of the key issues that can be purchased for display and reading. Most issues of Fantastic Four can be readily found in the marketplace if you are looking to collect the run.
Frequently Asked Questions about Fantastic Four Key Issues
What are the most valuable Fantastic Four comics?
Almost all of the most valuable Fantastic Four comics are in the first twenty or so issues. One through five being of the highest value and issue twelve.
How can I determine if a Fantastic Four issue is a Key?
A number of previously mentioned resources can help determine what the community considers a key. Key Comic Collector, COVR Price, Go Collect.
What’s the best way to start collecting Fantastic Four comics?
Flea Markets, online marketplaces and local comic shops are the best places to start if you are looking to collect back issues of Marvel’s first family. If you are looking for the big key issues, auction websites, comic shops and comic cons are the best place to start looking for the big keys!