MAD #No. 188
E.C. Publications, Inc. • Mad Magazine Vol. 1
Writer
Mad Staff (including Al Jaffee, Frank Jacobs, etc.)
Interior Artist
Mort Drucker, Jack Davis, Angelo Torres, Antonio Prohias
Cover Artist
Jack Rickard
Publication Date
January 1977
Cover Variant
Regular Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
A satirical magazine featuring parodies of 'The Bionic Woman' (The Chronic Woman), 'The Bad News Bears', and 'The Missouri Breaks'. Features regular segments like Spy vs. Spy, The Mad Fold-In by Al Jaffee, and 'The Lighter Side of...' by Dave Berg.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Good (CGC 4.0)
Condition Details
Moderate color-breaking spine stress, significant corner blunting (specifically bottom left), visible surface soiling/foxing on the white background, and a noticeable vertical 'subscription crease' or roll on the left side. General edge wear and tanning consistent with age.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $5 - $12; Graded (if 8.0+): $50 - $70
Recent Sales
Recent eBay sales for raw copies in similar mid-grade condition range from $6 to $15 depending on shipping. Higher grade copies (VF/NM) can fetch up to $30 raw.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The current estimated grade (4.0-5.0) would result in a market value lower than the cost of the grading fees ($35+). It is best kept in a bag and board as a reader copy.
Notable Features
Includes a satire of 'The Bionic Woman' starring Lindsay Wagner; Alfred E. Neuman as Santa Claus in corner box; Fold-in intact (unverified from photo but standard for value); Jack Rickard cover art featuring a battery-themed parody of the Bionic duo.
Authentication Notes
Original newsstand copy indicated by the price box (50c CHEAP) and Indicia (33230) on the front cover. Print quality and paper aging appear consistent with 1970s magazine stock.