Swamp Thing ##88
DC Comics (DC Black Label) • Swamp Thing (1982-1996 Series)
Writer
Rick Veitch
Interior Artist
Michael Zulli, Vince Locke
Cover Artist
Rick Veitch
Publication Date
August 2020 (Original story dated 1989)
Cover Variant
Regular Cover (Black Label Facsimile)
Printing
First Printing (of this edition)
Comic Description
A long-awaited 'lost' story finally published. Swamp Thing is forced to choose between his humanity and his divinity. The issue contains the story 'The Lamb and the Lily,' which was famously pulled from publication in 1989 due to its controversial depiction of Swamp Thing meeting Jesus Christ during time travel.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Near Mint (9.4)
Condition Details
Generally sharp edges and vibrant colors. Minor potential for spine ticks or blunting typical of modern stock; image resolution suggests a high-grade copy with no visible color-breaking creases or staining.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5.00 - $10.00 | Graded (9.8): $35.00 - $50.00
Recent Sales
Recent sales fluctuate between cover price ($4.99) and $12.00 for NM raw copies. Large availability of this reprint keeps the value close to MSRP.
Grading Recommendation
Not worth professional grading unless it is a guaranteed 9.8 for a personal collection. The cost of grading exceeds the market value of the book in most cases.
Notable Features
DC Black Label branding. This is the first official publication of the 'missing' Rick Veitch story after it was suppressed for over 30 years. Features a facsimile style of the original trade dress and an iconic cover image of Swamp Thing holding a lamb.
Authentication Notes
Authenticity is confirmed by the 'DC Black Label' logo on the top left, which distinguishes this 2020 printing from any 1989-era materials. Also identified by the modern $4.99 price point.