The Phantom ##54
Charlton Comics • The Phantom (Charlton Comics Series)
Writer
Joe Gill
Interior Artist
Don Newton
Cover Artist
Don Newton
Publication Date
October 1973
Cover Variant
Regular
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Features the story 'The Swamp of Death.' The Phantom investigate mysterious happenings in a treacherous swamp. It includes classic 21st Phantom action against poachers and supernatural-themed threats.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Good/Very Good (CGC 3.0)
Condition Details
Visible major spine rolling and creasing, heavy corner blunting, color-breaking horizontal crease mid-spine, and significant edge wear. Visible scuffing and likely foxing or tanning on the back cover/interior edges. Some tearing along the bottom spine corner.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5 - $15; Graded (CGC 3.0): $25 - $40
Recent Sales
Recent eBay sales for mid-to-high grade copies (VF/NM) have reached $60-$100, while low-grade copies consistently sell for the shipping cost plus a few dollars (under $15).
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of CGC/CBCS grading would exceed the final market value of the book in this condition. Best suited for a bag and board as a reader copy.
Notable Features
Includes art by the legendary Don Newton, who is highly regarded for his Charlton and DC work. This issue contains the Phantom story 'The Swamp of Death' and a backup feature. 20 cent cover price.
Authentication Notes
Authentic Charlton Bronze Age print; displays typical mid-70s paper stock aging and staple placement. The 20 cent price and 'Oct' date aligned with the grid match known production standards for 1973.