Saga Variants: Alternative Covers to Collect

Saga by Brian K. Vaughan and Fiona Staples has become in just a few years one of the most collected independent series on the market. Its unique universe, mixing science fiction and fantasy in a family space opera, and the artistic quality of each cover make it fertile ground for high-value variants. Limited editions produced at conventions or exclusively for certain bookstores regularly reach auction peaks.

For the discerning collector, the Saga variants represent a segment where rarity combines with constant and international demand. Unlike the Big Two (Marvel and DC), Image Comics print runs are often lower from the start, which greatly amplifies the value of special editions. The series having won multiple Eisner Awards, its prestige also attracts investors beyond the usual circle of comic book collectors.

The different types of Saga variants

Image Expo Exclusives

Distributed only at Image Expo shows, these covers have extremely small print runs (often 500 to 1,000 copies). Number 1 Image Expo remains the absolute holy grail for any Saga collector. These editions typically feature a never-before-seen wrap-around cover by Fiona Staples created specifically for the event.

LCBDE and Local Comic Book Day variants

These “phantom” editions did not appear in the Previews catalogs and were distributed directly to partner bookstores. Their very existence was sometimes discovered after the fact by collectors, which makes their exact census still uncertain to this day. The precise circulation of certain LCBDEs remains unknown.

Second Printings by Fiona Staples

Reprints with alternate covers from Staples have become collector's items in their own right. The second print of #1, with its radically different color palette (purple tones instead of red), rivals in value with certain conventional variants. Third and fourth prints are also sought after because they are produced in decreasing quantities.

Ghost Variants

Term designating variants not announced or distributed confidentially to a restricted circle of retailers. Their mysterious nature fuels speculation and treasure hunting among collectors. Some ghost variants are only identified months after their initial distribution.

Forbidden Planet and exclusive international retailers

Bookstore chains like Forbidden Planet (UK) or Midtown Comics (US) have ordered their own exclusive variants of Saga. These editions, distributed only within the retailer's network, are particularly rare outside their geographical area of ​​origin and appeal to international collectors.

Top 10 most valued Saga variants

1. Saga #1 Image Expo Exclusive (2012) — $800–1,200
2. Saga #1 LCBDE Phantom Variant — $500–700
3. Saga #1 Second Print (Staples) — $150–250
4. Saga #1 Third Print — $80–120
5. Saga #12 Image Expo Variant — $200–350
6. Saga #1 Forbidden Planet Exclusive — $100–180
7. Saga #7 SDCC Exclusive — $120–200
8. Saga #43 Final Issue Ghost Variant — $150–300
9. Saga #54 Return Issue Convention Exclusive — $100–180
10. Saga #1 Fourth Print — $50–90

How to identify an authentic Saga variant

Check the barcode and Diamond code: convention variants often have a different suffix (letters B, C, D after the order number). Compare the color palette with specialized databases like CLZ or GoCollect. Ghost variants sometimes have no printed notice distinguishing them — only the cover differs from the standard print.

For LCBDEs, look for the specific logo on the back cover. Second prints are marked “Second Printing” in the interior index and have a distinct barcode. If in doubt, direct comparison with a standard copy reveals differences in coloring or composition.

Investment potential

Saga is benefiting from a television adaptation in development that could propel ratings to new heights. Variants of #1 are the safest in terms of long-term valuation. To diversify your Saga portfolio, target key numbers likeImage Comics key issues guidedetails it.

The series having now ended, the supply is definitively fixed - only the demand will evolve. This is a structural advantage for the investor: no new circulation will dilute the rarity of existing variants. The return of the series after its three-year hiatus demonstrated the loyalty of the readership.

Where to buy Saga variants

Saga variants circulate mainly on eBay (international market), on specialized platforms such as MyComicShop and ComicLink, and during Image Comics conventions. Facebook groups dedicated to Saga and independent comics are also reliable sources for rare items. Favor sellers with verifiable sales history and high-resolution photos.

For high-value pieces (Image Expo, LCBDE), auction houses like Heritage Auctions or ComicConnect offer a guarantee of authenticity and maximum visibility among serious collectors around the world.

Preservation and storage

Use Mylar sleeves for high-value copies and archival-grade acid-free boards. Store vertically in dedicated boxes, protected from humidity (less than 50% humidity) and direct light. Saga covers use vibrant inks that are particularly UV sensitive and can fade within a few months of exposure.

For coins over $300, CGC or CBCS slabbing provides optimal protection and greatly facilitates international resale. A grade 9.8 on an Image Expo Exclusive can double the value compared to a raw copy in comparable condition. Also think about collection insurance for the most precious pieces.