Fantastic Four Comics Worth Collecting: Our Top 15 Picks

There’s just something special about diving into a fantastic four comic — that perfect mix of classic Marvel storytelling, bold art, and cosmic adventure that helped shape superhero history. More than just a team, they are Marvel’s First Family—the spark that ignited countless beloved stories. From the brilliant Reed Richards to the ever-unshakable Ben Grimm, these characters have been at the heart of epic Marvel moments for decades."

From Reed Richards — better known as Mr Fantastic Four — to the ever-unshakable rock man fantastic 4, Ben Grimm, the fantastic four members have been at the heart of epic Marvel moments for decades. These aren’t just superheroes; they’re explorers, inventors, and a family that’s navigated alien worlds, alternate dimensions, and the toughest challenges the marvel fantastic four have ever faced.

In this list, we’ll explore 15 must-read issues — from fantastic four key issues that rewrote Marvel history to underrated stories that deserve more love. Whether you’ve been following the fantastic 4 in order since the Silver Age or are just starting your journey with the fantastic four reading order, these picks deliver a mix of historical significance, breathtaking fantastic four art, and pure storytelling magic.

So grab your favorite seat, maybe queue up one of the movies for background inspiration, and let’s revisit the fantastic four comics that every Marvel fan should know — because appreciating these stories is about more than collecting; it’s about celebrating a legacy as fantastic as the team itself.

Top Picks to Read

1. Fantastic Four #48 (1966) – The epic debut of Galactus and the Silver Surfer, a must-read cosmic adventure that redefined Marvel’s First Family.

2. Fantastic Four #52 (1966) – First appearance of the Black Panther and Wakanda, blending superhero action with groundbreaking worldbuilding.

3. Fantastic Four #5 (1962) – Doctor Doom’s unforgettable debut, introducing one of the most iconic villains in Marvel Comics history.

15. Fantastic Four Annual (1963–94) #1

• Rank - Most Expensive Fantastic Four Comics: 15

• Sale Price: $21,000

• Sale Year: 2021

• Grade: CGC 9.6

A true gem in Marvel’s First Family history, Fantastic Four Annual #1 (1963) delivers epic storytelling with Namor’s all-out war on humanity, classic Fantastic Four characters, and a gallery of their most famous foes. Packed with Jack Kirby’s bold Fantastic Four art and even a Spider-Man cameo, it’s one of the best Fantastic Four comics and a major Fantastic Four key issue. Recognized with the 1963 Alley Award for “Favorite Annual,” this issue is a must in any Fantastic Four reading order—and a CGC 9.6 copy like this is pure collector prestige.

14. Fantastic Four (1961–96; 2003–12) #72

• Rank - Most Expensive Fantastic Four Comics: 14

• Sale Price: $25,389

• Sale Year: 2009

• Grade: CGC 9.8

A high-grade copy of Fantastic Four #72 is a dream for Marvel Comics collectors. This classic features one of the most striking Fantastic Four art covers by Jack Kirby, showcasing the Silver Surfer in a cosmic standoff that’s pure 1960s grandeur. Often cited among the best Fantastic Four comics, it captures the tension between Fantastic Four members and one of Marvel’s most iconic cosmic characters. For fans building a Fantastic Four reading order, this issue is a visual and storytelling high point—made even rarer in pristine CGC 9.8 condition.

13. Fantastic Four (1961–96; 2003–12) #3

• Rank - Most Expensive Fantastic Four Comics: 13

• Sale Price: $26,060

• Sale Year: 2022

• Grade: CGC 9.2

The issue that introduced the team’s iconic costumes, Fantastic Four #3 is a cornerstone of Fantastic Four comic history. Before this, the Fantastic Four members fought in plain clothes—here, they truly became Marvel’s First Family in look and feel. Jack Kirby’s Fantastic Four art bursts with early 1960s charm, and the story delivers classic heroics against the Miracle Man. A CGC 9.2 copy is a rare find, making this one of the most important Fantastic Four key issues for any serious collector following the Fantastic Four reading order.

12. 1966 Marvel Fantastic Four #48

• Rank - Most Expensive Fantastic Four Comics: 12

• Sale Price: $26,580

• Sale Year: 2022

• Grade: CGC 9.6

• Sale Location: Goldin Auctions

Regarded as one of the best Fantastic Four comics ever printed, Fantastic Four #48 marks the first appearance of Silver Surfer and Galactus—two of the most legendary Fantastic Four characters. This Fantastic Four key issue kicked off the epic “Galactus Trilogy,” a milestone in Marvel Comics storytelling that showcased cosmic stakes like never before. Jack Kirby’s Fantastic Four art captures the grandeur and menace of these new forces, making this a must-have for collectors who love Fantastic Four powers on a galactic scale. In CGC 9.6, it’s as close as you can get to holding the birth of Marvel cosmic mythology in your hands.

11. Fantastic Four (1961–96; 2003–12) #15

• Rank - Most Expensive Fantastic Four Comics: 11

• Sale Price: $30,333

• Sale Year: 2024

• Grade: CGC 9.8

• Sale Location: ComicConnect

Fantastic Four #15 is an early Fantastic Four comic that perfectly captures the 1960s Marvel magic. Featuring the team’s battle with the Mad Thinker and his Awesome Android, this issue blends science, superpowers, and that classic Fantastic Four art style from Jack Kirby. Its near-perfect CGC 9.8 grade makes it a rarity among Fantastic Four key issues, appealing to collectors who prize both condition and early Fantastic Four members adventures.

10. 1966 Marvel Fantastic Four #52 – First Appearance of the Black Panther

• Rank - Most Expensive Fantastic Four Comics: 10

• Sale Price: $31,800

• Sale Year: 2022

• Grade: CGC 9.4

• Sale Location: Goldin Auctions

A historic Fantastic Four key issue, Fantastic Four #52 introduced T’Challa, the Black Panther, to the Marvel Comics universe. This meeting between Fantastic Four members and one of the most important Marvel Comics characters ever created opened the door to Wakanda’s rich legacy. With Jack Kirby’s bold visuals and Stan Lee’s storytelling, this issue stands as one of the best Fantastic Four comics and a cultural milestone for superhero diversity. A CGC 9.4 copy, especially signed by Stan Lee, is a true collector’s prize.

9. Fantastic Four (1961–96; 2003–12) #45

• Rank - Most Expensive Fantastic Four Comics: 9

• Sale Price: $32,555

• Sale Year: 2017

• Grade: CGC 9.8

• Sale Location: ComicConnect

Fantastic Four #45 marks the first appearance of the Inhumans, expanding the Fantastic Four Marvel mythos with new Fantastic Four characters like Black Bolt, Medusa, and Crystal. This 1965 issue is a must for fans exploring the Fantastic Four reading order, as it sets up major arcs in both Fantastic Four comics and the wider Marvel Comics superheroes world. In CGC 9.8, it’s an ultra-rare condition for a Silver Age key that remains a top target for collectors who love Marvel’s First Family and their evolving universe.

8. Fantastic Four #5 (1962 Marvel)

• Rank - Most Expensive Fantastic Four Comics: 8

• Sale Price: $39,040

• Sale Year: 2025

• Grade: CGC 8.5

• Sale Location: Goldin Auctions

An essential Fantastic Four key issue, Fantastic Four #5 introduced one of the most legendary Fantastic Four characters—Doctor Doom. As the archenemy of Marvel’s First Family, Doom’s debut cemented him as one of the best Marvel Comics villains ever created. The Jack Kirby cover art has become an icon of Fantastic Four Marvel history, and in CGC 8.5, this book holds immense value for collectors chasing original Fantastic Four milestones.

7. Fantastic Four (1961–96; 2003–12) #50

• Rank - Most Expensive Fantastic Four Comics: 7

• Sale Price: $44,007

• Sale Year: 2013

• Grade: CGC 9.8

• Sale Location: ComicConnect

Fantastic Four #50 is the unforgettable conclusion to the “Galactus Trilogy,” featuring the Silver Surfer’s stunning character arc. This Fantastic Four comic blends cosmic grandeur with emotional depth, marking it as one of the best Fantastic Four comics of all time. With brilliant Fantastic Four Jack Kirby art and storytelling that defines the Silver Age, a CGC 9.8 copy is a centerpiece for any serious Marvel Comics collection.

6. Fantastic Four (1961–96; 2003–12) #11

• Rank - Most Expensive Fantastic Four Comics: 6

• Sale Price: $50,555

• Sale Year: 2023

• Grade: CGC 9.4

• Sale Location: ComicConnect

This early Silver Age issue delivers a quirky twist—Fantastic Four #11 includes “A Day with the Fantastic Four,” giving fans an intimate look at Fantastic Four members outside their usual battles. It also introduces Impossible Man, one of the most unusual Fantastic Four characters in the entire Marvel Comics roster. In CGC 9.4, it’s an outstanding example of early Fantastic Four original storytelling, loved by collectors for its lighthearted charm amid the team’s epic adventures.

5. Fantastic Four #6 (Marvel, 1962)

• Rank - Most Expensive Fantastic Four Comics: 5

• Sale Price: $60,000

• Sale Year: 2021

• Grade: CGC 9.6

• Sale Location: Heritage Auctions

Often celebrated as the first true supervillain team-up in Fantastic Four comic history, Fantastic Four #6 unites Doctor Doom and Namor the Sub-Mariner in a plot to destroy Marvel’s First Family. The story captures the early essence of Fantastic Four Marvel storytelling—grand stakes, intense rivalries, and Jack Kirby’s unmatched Fantastic Four art. For many collectors, this is a pivotal Fantastic Four key issue because it expanded the shared Marvel Comics universe, proving that its villains could form alliances as dangerous as its heroes.

In CGC 9.6, this comic is a high-grade rarity from the Silver Age, making it an irresistible addition to any serious Fantastic Four reading order collection. The Doom–Namor alliance would echo through decades of Marvel storytelling, influencing future crossovers and cementing this book’s legendary status among best Fantastic Four comics.

4. Fantastic Four #4 (Marvel, 1962)

• Rank - Most Expensive Fantastic Four Comics:

• Sale Price: $81,000

• Sale Year: 2019

• Grade: CGC 9.6

• Sale Location: Heritage Auctions

Fantastic Four #4 is a milestone in both Fantastic Four comics and Marvel Comics history—it resurrected Namor the Sub-Mariner, a character from the Golden Age, and reintroduced him into the Silver Age Marvel Comics superheroes lineup. This reunion between Fantastic Four members and one of Marvel’s oldest antiheroes added depth to the Fantastic Four characters roster, blending nostalgia with new-age storytelling.

For collectors, its importance can’t be overstated—it’s both a revival of Marvel’s past and a foundation for future Fantastic Four adaptations. A CGC 9.6 copy is exceptionally scarce, and its significance in the Fantastic Four reading order makes it a top-tier target for fans who value the intersection of comic history and market rarity.

3. Fantastic Four #2 (Marvel, 1962)

• Rank - Most Expensive Fantastic Four Comics: 3

• Sale Price: $84,000

• Sale Year: 2022

• Grade: CGC 9.4

• Sale Location: Heritage Auctions

The second appearance of Marvel’s First Family is pure early Silver Age charm. Fantastic Four #2 features the team battling the shape-shifting Skrulls—marking the first appearance of these Fantastic Four characters who would go on to play major roles across Marvel Comics events for decades. The plot is a quirky mix of sci-fi and superhero action, even including a famous panel where the team scares off Skrulls by showing them images of monsters from other Marvel Comics.

From a collector’s standpoint, this is a cornerstone Fantastic Four original issue. It builds directly on the Fantastic Four first appearance and expands their universe, setting the stage for future cosmic sagas. High-grade copies like this CGC 9.4 are rare and highly coveted, especially by those building a complete Fantastic Four in order run.

2. Fantastic Four #49 (Marvel, 1966)

• Sale Price: $192,000

• Sale Year: 2022

• Grade: CGC 9.8

• Sale Location: Heritage Auctions

Part two of the legendary “Galactus Trilogy,” Fantastic Four #49 is a monumental Fantastic Four key issue that features the first full appearance of Galactus and the second appearance of the Silver Surfer. This story elevated Fantastic Four Marvel from superhero adventures to cosmic epics, cementing Jack Kirby and Stan Lee’s run as one of the best Marvel comics sagas ever told. The stakes here—Earth’s survival against a godlike threat—set a storytelling standard that would inspire generations of Marvel Comics superheroes arcs.

In CGC 9.8, this issue is one of the most coveted Silver Age books in existence. Its mix of breathtaking Fantastic Four art, high drama, and historical significance makes it essential for any Fantastic Four omnibus or serious high-grade collection.

1. Fantastic Four #1 (Marvel, 1961)

• Rank - Most Expensive Fantastic Four Comics:

• Sale Price: $2,040,000

• Sale Year: 2024

• Grade: CGC 9.6

• Sale Location: Heritage Auctions

The comic that started it all, Fantastic Four #1 is the first appearance of the Fantastic Four members—Mr. Fantastic, Invisible Woman, Human Torch, and the Thing—and is widely considered the birth of the Marvel Comics superhero universe as we know it. Released in 1961, it marked the debut of Marvel’s First Family and introduced the concept of heroes with personal flaws and relatable dynamics. Its success paved the way for the interconnected Marvel Comics in order storytelling style that dominates today.

A CGC 9.6 copy of this Fantastic Four original is an almost mythical find, given its age and cultural impact. For collectors, this isn’t just a best Fantastic Four comic—it’s arguably the most important book in modern comics history. Owning it is like holding the foundation stone of Marvel Comics superheroes, making it the crown jewel of any collection.

Final Thoughts

From the cosmic scope of the “Galactus Trilogy” to the historic debut of Fantastic Four #1, the Fantastic Four have defined an era of Marvel Comics storytelling. They weren’t just superheroes—they were a family, facing cosmic threats, personal challenges, and world-shaping events side by side. This blend of relatable dynamics and high-stakes adventure helped turn Marvel’s First Family into one of the most enduring teams in comic history.

For collectors, these landmark comics are more than prized possessions—they’re living artifacts of a creative revolution. Whether you’re building a complete Fantastic Four in order run, adding high-grade Silver Age treasures to your collection, or simply appreciating Jack Kirby’s legendary Fantastic Four art, these books remain a testament to the timeless appeal of great storytelling, bold imagination, and the heroes who changed the game forever.

FAQs

Who are the Fantastic Four?

The Fantastic Four are one of the most iconic superhero teams in Marvel Comics history, often called Marvel’s First Family. The Fantastic Four members are Mister Fantastic (Reed Richards), the Invisible Woman (Sue Storm), the Human Torch (Johnny Storm), and the Thing (Ben Grimm). Together, these Fantastic Four characters debuted in Fantastic Four #1 in 1961, bringing a mix of cosmic adventures, family dynamics, and groundbreaking storytelling to the comic book world.

Is Fantastic Four Marvel?

Yes — the Fantastic Four are 100% part of the Marvel Comics superheroes lineup. In fact, their debut is considered a turning point in the history of Marvel Comics, helping launch the shared universe we know today. Whether you’re reading classic issues in the Fantastic Four omnibus or exploring modern Fantastic Four adaptations, they remain a cornerstone of the Marvel Comics brand.

How many Marvel Comics are there?

Since the early 1940s, Marvel Comics has published tens of thousands of issues across its vast universe of heroes, villains, and epic storylines. From the original Fantastic Four to modern crossover events, the catalog spans decades and countless series, making Marvel comics in order reading guides essential for serious collectors.

Who created Marvel Comics?

Marvel Comics was co-created by visionary talents including Stan Lee, Jack Kirby, and Steve Ditko, among others. Lee and Kirby, in particular, were responsible for creating the Fantastic Four Marvel series, redefining superhero storytelling with relatable characters and complex plots. Their work not only birthed the Fantastic Four but also shaped much of what we now consider the best Marvel comics in history.

How did the Fantastic Four get their powers?

The Fantastic Four powers came from a fateful trip into space. Reed Richards, Sue Storm, Johnny Storm, and Ben Grimm were exposed to intense cosmic rays during an experimental mission. The radiation altered their bodies, giving each unique abilities: Reed gained elasticity as Mr. Fantastic, Sue became the Invisible Woman, Johnny turned into the Human Torch, and Ben transformed into the super-strong, rock-skinned Thing. This origin remains one of the most famous in Marvel Comics history.

What are the Fantastic Four’s superhero names?

The Fantastic Four superhero names are instantly recognizable: Mr. Fantastic, Invisible Woman, Human Torch, and the Thing. These names have become synonymous with their powers and personalities, cementing them as legendary Fantastic Four characters in the Marvel Comics universe.

What are the key issues for Fantastic Four collectors?

Some of the most sought-after Fantastic Four key issues include Fantastic Four #1 (first appearance of the team), Fantastic Four #48–50 (the “Galactus Trilogy” introducing Galactus and Silver Surfer), Fantastic Four #5 (first Doctor Doom), and Fantastic Four #52 (first Black Panther). These issues are cornerstones of Fantastic Four comics history and rank among the best Fantastic Four comics to own for investment and legacy.