Swamp Thing ##44
DC Comics • Saga of the Swamp Thing Vol. 2
Writer
Alan Moore
Interior Artist
Stephen Bissette and John Totleben
Cover Artist
Stephen Bissette and John Totleben
Publication Date
January 1986
Cover Variant
Regular/Direct Edition (UPC in white box)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Part of the legendary Alan Moore run. The story features Swamp Thing traveling to the American South to confront the supernatural horrors of race and slavery in 'Bogeymen'.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine- (7.5 to 8.0)
Condition Details
Minor spine stress ticks (some color breaking), visible blunting on the bottom right corner, slight edge wear along the bottom. The cover remains bright with good gloss, but there is minor evidence of shelf wear.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $20 - $35; Graded (CGC 8.0): $60 - $80; High Grade (CGC 9.8): $250+
Recent Sales
Raw copies in similar mid-to-high grade recently sold for $25-$30. CGC 9.8 copies have trended higher due to the iconic flag cover.
Grading Recommendation
Only worth professional grading if it can achieve a 9.6 or higher following a professional clean and press. As a 7.5-8.0, grading costs would likely exceed the immediate value increase.
Notable Features
Iconic 'American Flag' cover art. This issue is a key part of the 'American Gothic' storyline which led into the events of Crisis on Infinite Earths and the introduction of John Constantine.
Authentication Notes
Authentic DC Direct Edition from 1986. Paper stock and ink density are consistent with Mid-80s Baxter paper era comics; registration on the red stripes is sharp.