The Saga of the Swamp Thing ##20
DC Comics • The Saga of the Swamp Thing Vol. 2
Writer
Alan Moore
Interior Artist
Dan Day
Cover Artist
Thomas Yeates
Publication Date
January 1984
Cover Variant
Regular/Direct Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
This issue marks the monumental beginning of Alan Moore's legendary run on Swamp Thing. Entitled 'Loose Ends', it serves as a bridge from the previous era, cleaning up remaining plot threads (the death of General Sunderland) to pave the way for Moore's radical reimagining of the character's origin.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine- (CGC 7.5) to Very Fine (CGC 8.0)
Condition Details
Minor spine stress ticks visible along the left edge. Some corner blunting on the bottom right. Minor edge wear. Gloss appears good but shows slight vertical shelf wear characteristic of comics from this era.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $110 - $160; Graded (9.0+): $250 - $400+
Recent Sales
Raw copies in mid-to-high grade have recently sold between $120 and $180. CGC 9.8 copies have sold for upwards of $1,000 due to the historical importance of Alan Moore's debut.
Grading Recommendation
Yes, highly recommended for grading. This is a major copper age key issue. A professional press and clean could likely push this into the 8.5-9.0+ range, significantly increasing its liquidity and value.
Notable Features
First Alan Moore script on Swamp Thing; Key copper age book; Direct edition with barcode; Death of General Sunderland.
Authentication Notes
The comic appears authentic based on the correct '75c' price point for the 1984 era, the Yeates signature style, and standard DC trade dress of the early 1980s.