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X-Factor (1986) #80

X-Factor (1986) #80

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X-Factor (1986) #80 – Marvel Comics
X-Factor (1986) #80 (July 1992), written by Peter David with pencils by Larry Stroman, inks by Al Milgrom, and cover art by Larry Stroman, is a Copper Age issue in the original X-Factor series, priced at $1.25 and approved by the Comics Code Authority. Titled “Belles of the Ball,” this issue introduces Hell’s Belles, a terrorist cell of female mutants led by Briquette and including Vague, Flambé, and others, who target X-Factor—Havok (Alex Summers), Polaris (Lorna Dane), Multiple Man (Jamie Madrox), Strong Guy (Guido Carosella), Wolfsbane (Rahne Sinclair), and Quicksilver (Pietro Maximoff). The government-sponsored team must uncover the motives behind Hell’s Belles’ attacks while facing internal tensions. A key subplot involves a “Belle-gone-good,” a member seeking redemption, whom X-Factor aims to save before her teammates retaliate. Peter David’s script, a standout in his acclaimed X-Factor run, blends action, intrigue, and character-driven drama, while Larry Stroman’s distinctive, angular art vividly captures the mutant battles and emotional stakes. Stroman’s cover, showcasing X-Factor vs. Hell’s Belles, is a dynamic collector’s highlight.
Highlights
  • Introduction of Hell’s Belles, a female mutant terrorist cell.
  • X-Factor battles to uncover Hell’s Belles’ motives and save a redeemed member.
  • Peter David’s engaging script with action and team dynamics.
  • Larry Stroman’s bold pencils and striking cover art.
  • Key issue in the government-era X-Factor with a new villain team.
Key Characters
  • X-Factor: Havok (Alex Summers), Polaris (Lorna Dane), Multiple Man (Jamie Madrox), Strong Guy (Guido Carosella), Wolfsbane (Rahne Sinclair), Quicksilver (Pietro Maximoff).
  • Hell’s Belles: Briquette (leader), Vague, Flambé, others (specific roster may include additional members).
  • Belle-gone-good (unspecified): Redeemed member targeted by her team.
  • Val Cooper (likely referenced): Government liaison overseeing X-Factor.
Direct Edition Details
  • Identification: Newsstand Editions feature a UPC barcode on the cover (bottom left), unlike Direct Editions’ logo or blank space. X-Factor #80 Newsstand copies show a barcode with $1.25 (US) and $1.50 (Canada) pricing.
  • Scarcity: Newsstand copies are rarer, comprising ~10–20% of the 1992 print run, with high-grade copies scarcer due to retail handling (bending, stickers). By 1992, newsstand distribution was waning, increasing rarity.
  • Condition: NM or better Newsstand copies are prized, as retail exposure often lowered condition.
Value & Trends
  • Current: Raw NM copies of X-Factor #80 sell for $5–$15 on eBay and MyComicShop, with VF copies at $3–$8 and CGC 9.8 copies fetching $40–$80, driven by Peter David’s run, Stroman’s art, and Hell’s Belles’ debut. Newsstand editions command a 10–15% premium, with raw NM Newsstand at $8–$20 and CGC 9.8 Newsstand at $50–$100. [eBay listings show raw NM Direct at $8–$12, with CGC 9.8 Direct at $50–$75; Newsstand NM at $10–$18.] CGC 9.9 or 10.0 copies are rare, potentially reaching $100–$200. The X-Factor by Peter David trade paperback (Vol. 1, 2007) may include related issues, selling for $15–$25.
  • Trends: The X-Men ’97 animated series (2024–2025) boosting X-Factor’s profile, Avengers: Secret Wars (2027) hype, and Peter David’s cult run could drive 10–15% price hikes in 6–12 months. CGC 9.8 Newsstand copies may hit $80–$120 in 2–3 years if Polaris, Multiple Man, or Hell’s Belles gain MCU focus (X-Men projects). Comic-Con 2025 news or reprints could spike demand. The issue’s value is moderate, overshadowed by keys like X-Factor #6 (1st Apocalypse), but Hell’s Belles’ debut and David’s storytelling add allure.
  • Market: Copper Age X-Factor issues with Peter David’s writing, Stroman’s art, and new villains like Hell’s Belles are prized by X-Men collectors, especially in high-grade or slabbed Newsstand Editions due to their scarcity.
Why Buy?
X-Factor #80 is a Copper Age gem, introducing Hell’s Belles, resolving a redemption arc, and showcasing Peter David’s masterful storytelling. Larry Stroman’s dynamic art and cover make it a must-have for X-Men fans. Grab it in NM or CGC-graded condition, especially a Newsstand copy, before X-Men ’97 or X-Factor’s cinematic potential boosts prices!
Price:
  • Direct Edition: $5–$15 (NM, raw); $40–$80 (CGC 9.8); $3–$8 (VF, raw).
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