The Saga of Swamp Thing ##21
DC Comics • The Saga of Swamp Thing Vol. 2
Writer
Alan Moore
Interior Artist
Stephen R. Bissette and John Totleben
Cover Artist
Stephen R. Bissette and John Totleben
Publication Date
February 1984
Cover Variant
Regular Edition (Direct)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Title of story: 'The Anatomy Lesson'. This is the legendary issue by Alan Moore that reinvented Swamp Thing, revealing he is not Alec Holland transformed, but a plant that absorbed Holland's memories and consciousness. Key characters include Swamp Thing, Abby Arcane, and the Floronic Man (Jason Woodrue).
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Good (CGC 2.0)
Condition Details
Extremely heavy damage to the upper right corner with a large piece of the cover missing (corner tear). Significant color-breaking spine stress, blunted corners, multiple creases across the cover, surface soiling, and a large price sticker remnant or label in the bottom right corner.
Estimated Market Value
Raw (as is): $5.00 - $12.00; if in Near Mint (9.4+): $120.00 - $180.00. Current condition is heavily discounted due to missing cover piece.
Recent Sales
High-grade copies (9.8) sell for significant sums ($300+), but low-grade copies with missing pieces frequently sell for under $10 given the severity of the damage.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The missing piece of the cover and large price label will result in a 'Qualified' or very low numeric grade (approx. 1.0 - 2.0), costing more in fees than the value of the comic.
Notable Features
Major Key Issue. First issue and origin of the 'new' Swamp Thing concept. Widely considered one of the most important single issues in the history of horror comics and the Bronze/Modern transition.
Authentication Notes
The paper stock shows age-appropriate yellowing. The 'The New DC' logo is correct for the 1984 era. The cover art is authentic Bissette/Totleben. No signs of restoration suspected, though the damage is significant.