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X-Factor (1986) #16
X-Factor (1986) #16
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X-Factor (1986) #16 – Marvel Comics
X-Factor (1986) #16 (May 1987), written by Louise Simonson with pencils by David Mazzucchelli, inks by Joe Rubinstein, and cover art by Walt Simonson, is a Copper Age issue in the original X-Factor series, priced at $0.75 and approved by the Comics Code Authority. Titled “Playing With Fire!,” this issue focuses on X-Factor’s young charge, Skids (Sally Blevins), who considers returning to the Morlocks, the underground mutant community, feeling out of place with X-Factor. Rusty Collins (Firefist), a fellow trainee with fire-based powers, takes it upon himself to convince her to stay, leading to emotional and action-packed moments as their bond is tested. The story explores themes of belonging and identity, with X-Factor—Cyclops, Jean Grey, Beast, Angel, and Iceman—grappling with their mentorship roles. Louise Simonson’s character-driven script shines, while David Mazzucchelli’s acclaimed art (Daredevil: Born Again) brings a gritty, emotional depth to the story. Walt Simonson’s dynamic cover, featuring Rusty and Skids, adds iconic appeal.
Highlights
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Skids’ struggle between X-Factor and the Morlocks, with Rusty’s intervention.
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Emotional focus on young mutants’ identity and belonging.
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Louise Simonson’s heartfelt script with mentorship themes.
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David Mazzucchelli’s stellar pencils, a collector’s highlight.
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Walt Simonson’s striking cover art.
Value & Trends
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Current: Raw NM copies of X-Factor #16 sell for $5–$15 on eBay and MyComicShop, with VF copies at $3–$8 and CGC 9.8 copies fetching $40–$80, driven by Mazzucchelli’s art and Simonson’s run. Newsstand editions may command a 10–15% premium due to scarcity. [eBay listings show raw NM at $8–$12, with CGC 9.8 at $50–$75.] CGC 9.9 or 10.0 copies are rare, potentially reaching $100–$200. The X-Factor by Louise Simonson trade paperback (Vol. 1, 2011) may include this issue, selling for $15–$25.
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Trends: The X-Men ’97 animated series (2024–2025) boosting X-Factor’s profile, Avengers: Secret Wars (2027) hype, and Mazzucchelli’s art legacy (Batman: Year One) could drive 10–15% price hikes in 6–12 months. CGC 9.8 copies may hit $80–$120 in 2–3 years if Skids, Rusty, or the Morlocks gain MCU focus. Comic-Con 2025 news or reprints could spike demand. The issue’s value is moderate, overshadowed by key issues like X-Factor #6 (1st Apocalypse).
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Market: Copper Age X-Factor issues with Simonson’s writing, Mazzucchelli’s pencils, and Walt Simonson’s covers are prized by X-Men collectors, especially in high-grade or slabbed conditions. Mazzucchelli’s involvement adds significant appeal.
Key Characters
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X-Factor: Cyclops (Scott Summers), Jean Grey, Beast (Hank McCoy), Angel (Warren Worthington III), Iceman (Bobby Drake).
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Skids (Sally Blevins): Young mutant torn between X-Factor and Morlocks.
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Rusty Collins (Firefist): Trainee trying to keep Skids with the team.
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Morlocks (referenced): Underground mutant community.
Why Buy?
X-Factor #16 is a Copper Age standout, with Skids and Rusty’s emotional story, Louise Simonson’s nuanced writing, and Mazzucchelli’s exceptional art. Walt Simonson’s iconic cover and the issue’s place in the X-Factor run make it a must-have for X-Men fans. Grab it in NM condition before X-Men ’97 or X-Factor’s cinematic potential boosts prices!
X-Factor #16 is a Copper Age standout, with Skids and Rusty’s emotional story, Louise Simonson’s nuanced writing, and Mazzucchelli’s exceptional art. Walt Simonson’s iconic cover and the issue’s place in the X-Factor run make it a must-have for X-Men fans. Grab it in NM condition before X-Men ’97 or X-Factor’s cinematic potential boosts prices!
Price: $5–$15 (NM, raw); $40–$80 (CGC 9.8); $3–$8 (VF, raw). High-grade copies hold strong future value.

