Steve-
The only difference between the two kits is that the Black Pearl has the original figurehead from the Pirates of the Caribbean movies (a lady holding a giant pearl), and the Black Swan has a figurehead of a swan.
I've heard that the reason for this has to do with Disney not allowing Zvezda the rights to sell the Pearl in the US market, so Zvezda went and changed that one piece, so that they could market it as a *different* kit and sell it here.
Later, Zvezda sold the molds to Revell of Germany, who now sell it as a "Pirate Ship."
Prices seem to range from 150 or more for retail, but you can find versions of it on amazon or ebay for as little as 100 bucks.
For what it's worth, I think it's a great kit, I may even build it again someday, now that I've learned a thing or two.
Hope that helps.
Dave
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Current Project: Imai/ERTL Spanish Galleon #2
Recently Finished: Revell 1/96 Cutty Sark
Next Up: ???