Auctions: comic books July 1981

Fantastic Four (1961 1st Series) 232 CGC 9.8

Paper: Off white to white

Label #3868154014

"Back to the Basics!" Script and Art by John Byrne. Cover by John Byrne and Terry Austin. A new era begins for the Fantastic Four as John Byrne starts his 5-year stint as writer and artist for the series. However, the new era kicks off with an old villain...Diablo! The Master of Alchemy cooks up four creatures of earth, wind, water, and fire to battle the FF! Cameo appearances by Doctor Strange and Frankie Raye. (Notes: John Byrne inks this issue under the pseudonym (or anagram) Bjorn Heyn. Diablo appears next in Iron Man 159.) 32 pages Cover price $0.50.

Iron Man (1968 1st Series) 148 CGC 9.0

Paper: White

Newsstand Edition

Label #4385888009

"Siege!" Plot by David Michelinie and Bob Layton. Script by David Michelinie. Art by John Romita Jr. (breakdowns) and Bob Layton (finishes). Cover by Bob Layton. When a military coup in Central America endangers S.I. employees, the golden avenger rushes south of the border to save them! But to Shell-Head's surprise not everyone wants to be rescued! Is one of Tony's trusted employees playing both sides against the middle? Deceit is on full display in Costa Diablo! Cameo appearances by Captain America, Jarvis, and Jim Rhodes. (Note: This issue includes a full-page ad for Marvel Treasury Edition (1974) 28 featuring Superman and Spider-Man in a special Marvel/DC crossover.) 32 pages. Cover price $0.50.

ROM (1979 Marvel) 20 CGC 9.2

Paper: White

Newsstand Edition

Label #4385888016

Story by Bill Mantlo. Art by Sal Buscema and Joe Sinnott. After learning that his home world of Galador is in danger Rom confides in his allies, Steve and Brandy, that he plans to return home. However, what malevolent puppet master resides in the shadows pulling Rom's strings and why does he wear the visage of a Spaceknight? Plus, a back-up story featuring Rom and the Spaceknights of Galador. 32 pages. Cover price $0.50.