The X-Men #125
September 1979 · Marvel Comics
Condition: VF- (7.5)
A pivotal Bronze Age X-Men issue that sits at the crossroads of two landmark arcs: the aftermath of the Phoenix’s apparent death and the slow, ominous ignition of the Dark Phoenix Saga. X-Men #125 delivers the chilling promise of Jean Grey’s return—while quietly tightening the psychological screws that will soon snap.
Written by Chris Claremont with art by John Byrne and Terry Austin, this issue opens the door to everything that follows. The Phoenix is back… but not quite right. Subtle manipulation, fractured memories, and creeping dread define the tone as the series shifts from superhero adventure into tragic epic.
Key highlights:
“The Dramatic Return of Phoenix!” — Jean Grey re-enters the narrative, her power and identity once again under scrutiny.
Early, unsettling influence of Mastermind, laying the groundwork for Jean’s mental unraveling.
Muir Island becomes the focal point as Proteus escapes, setting off another major X-Men threat.
Classic Claremont character work, blending emotional introspection with high-stakes mutant drama.
Byrne & Austin at full stride—clean storytelling, expressive faces, and a cinematic sense of escalation.
Direct lead-in to X-Men #129–137, one of the most celebrated runs in Marvel history.
Why it matters:
While often overshadowed by later Dark Phoenix issues, X-Men #125 is where the tragedy truly begins. It’s the quiet before the storm—the issue that transforms Phoenix from a resolved storyline into a looming catastrophe. Essential reading for understanding how Claremont engineered long-form superhero drama with patience and precision.
Condition notes:
Very Fine- copy with light handling wear consistent with grade. Strong cover presence, clean interior pages, and solid overall presentation.
The X-Men #125
September 1979 · Marvel Comics
Condition: VF- (7.5)
A pivotal Bronze Age X-Men issue that sits at the crossroads of two landmark arcs: the aftermath of the Phoenix’s apparent death and the slow, ominous ignition of the Dark Phoenix Saga. X-Men #125 delivers the chilling promise of Jean Grey’s return—while quietly tightening the psychological screws that will soon snap.
Written by Chris Claremont with art by John Byrne and Terry Austin, this issue opens the door to everything that follows. The Phoenix is back… but not quite right. Subtle manipulation, fractured memories, and creeping dread define the tone as the series shifts from superhero adventure into tragic epic.
Key highlights:
“The Dramatic Return of Phoenix!” — Jean Grey re-enters the narrative, her power and identity once again under scrutiny.
Early, unsettling influence of Mastermind, laying the groundwork for Jean’s mental unraveling.
Muir Island becomes the focal point as Proteus escapes, setting off another major X-Men threat.
Classic Claremont character work, blending emotional introspection with high-stakes mutant drama.
Byrne & Austin at full stride—clean storytelling, expressive faces, and a cinematic sense of escalation.
Direct lead-in to X-Men #129–137, one of the most celebrated runs in Marvel history.
Why it matters:
While often overshadowed by later Dark Phoenix issues, X-Men #125 is where the tragedy truly begins. It’s the quiet before the storm—the issue that transforms Phoenix from a resolved storyline into a looming catastrophe. Essential reading for understanding how Claremont engineered long-form superhero drama with patience and precision.
Condition notes:
Very Fine- copy with light handling wear consistent with grade. Strong cover presence, clean interior pages, and solid overall presentation.
