*Marvel: Sandwiched between the Silver Surfer/Galactus epic and the introduction of the Black Panther is the wonderful story that is Fantastic Four #51. Not a ‘key’ issue; not a fabulous first appearance; not a universe-rending battle for reality. Just a simple, poignant and masterful example of done-in-one storytelling without the bloated ‘epics’ of today, as a man with a scheme for revenge against Reed Richards steals the identity of one of Reed’s closest friends, and discovers the truth. It’s a tale of revenge, loss and redemption, and proves that while Lee & Kirby’s output is often emulated, at their peak it is truly inimitable. This is a lovely cents copy with reasonable gloss, and a cover without marks except a slight grubbiness over the number box. Slight corber blunting, and a couple of creases at the right edge, one very short and one longer but very soft, about 8 cm across the Invisible Girl and the Thing, although neither break colour and are difficult to see. Staples are good at spine and centrefold and page quality a supple off-white. Very slight tanning at inside cover edges.
PICTURED: FANTASTIC FOUR #51 VG/FN £90