THE NOSTALGIC MAD #No. 1
E.C. Publications / MAD • The Nostalgic MAD
Writer
Harvey Kurtzman
Interior Artist
Harvey Kurtzman, Will Elder, Wally Wood, Jack Davis
Cover Artist
Harvey Kurtzman
Publication Date
1973
Cover Variant
Reprint Cover (Yellow title)
Printing
First Printing (of the Nostalgic reprint series)
Comic Description
This is a nostalgic reprint of the legendary MAD #1 from 1952. It features satirical takes on horror comics of the era. Key characters include Melvin and parodies of genre tropes. This reprint series allowed 1970s fans to read classic EC material that was otherwise unaffordable.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Good/Very Good (3.0)
Condition Details
Significant spine wear with extensive paper loss and tearing along the left edge/spine. Blunted corners, visible surface scuffing, and minor edge chipping. Some color fading and general creasing throughout.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5.00 - $15.00 | Graded: $30.00 - $50.00 (though rarely graded).
Recent Sales
Comparable low-grade raw copies frequently sell for $10-$20 in bundle sets. High-grade copies (9.0+) can reach $60+.
Grading Recommendation
Not worth professional grading. The cost of CGC/CBCS grading exceeds the value of the comic in this condition. This is a common 1970s reprint and not the ultra-rare 1952 original.
Notable Features
Often mistaken for the 1952 original; can be identified by the 'THE NOSTALGIC' header above the MAD logo and the lack of a 10 cent price point in the upper corner. Features the iconic 'Humor in a Weathered Vein' tagline.
Authentication Notes
Genuine 1973 Nostalgic MAD reprint. The paper stock used in the 70s is different from the newsprint of the 50s; this is a legitimate publication from E.C. Publications meant as a budget-friendly collectible.