Mad Magazine Super Special Number Twenty Appraisal
Category: Magazine
Description
This item is a 1972 edition of Mad Magazine, specifically the "Super Special Number Twenty". It is a paperback magazine with a full-color cover featuring an illustration of a grotesque, long-tongued character by Don Martin, along with the iconic Alfred E. Neuman in the upper left corner. The cover is white with red and blue text. Key text on the cover indicates "Starring Our Full-Color Fold-Out Bonus", "Help The Mentally Incompetent", "Re-Elect Your Congressman!", "Don Martin 'Give'Em Hell' Election Year Stickers", and "Pre-Glued and Perforated for Immediate Misuse and Abuse!". The price of "$1.00" and "Super-Cheap 54050" are also visible. The magazine appears to be in good condition with minimal visible wear. There may be slight edge wear and some surface grime or discoloration consistent with age and handling, but no significant tears or creases are obvious from the image. The artwork is cartoonish and characteristic of Don Martin's style and the general aesthetic of Mad Magazine during this period. The presence of the "Election Year Stickers" suggests a focus on political satire relevant to 1972.
Appraisal Report
Based on my examination of the provided image and the owner's description, this is a 1972 Mad Magazine Super Special Number Twenty. The item appears to be in good condition. I observe minimal edge wear and some expected surface discoloration consistent with its age. There are no obvious tears, significant creases, or major stains visible in the image, which is positive for condition assessment. The cover artwork by Don Martin is clear and vibrant for a publication of this era. The presence of the "Election Year Stickers" is a key feature specific to this issue. Mad Magazine issues from the 1970s, especially Super Specials like this one, generally have a stable, modest market among collectors of comics, magazines, and satirical pop culture memorabilia. Issues in good condition like this one are relatively common, which tempers the value. Comparables in similar condition typically sell in the range of $10 to $25. Demand is consistent among dedicated Mad fans, but it is not considered a rare or highly sought-after collectible. The primary factors impacting value here are the overall condition (which appears good), the intactness of any included inserts or stickers (which, if present and unused, would enhance value), and the specific issue number (some issues or covers are more popular than others). This particular issue, while featuring Don Martin and Alfred E. Neuman, is not generally considered a premium-priced item. However, without a physical inspection, I cannot definitively confirm the absence of hidden flaws, the condition of internal pages, the presence and condition of the fold-out and stickers, or rule out potential restoration. Full authentication and precise condition assessment require in-person examination.
Appraisal Value
$15-25