After looking at hundreds of comic book covers, it becomes quickly apparent that not every cover is 100% original. Whether done intentionally or even underhandedly, there’s something about uncovering these “swipes” that adds a new element of fun to reading and collecting comics.
Mad has been around for nearly 60 years now! Some of you might not know it but, the series was original published with comic book-sized dimensions before it moved to its current magazine size. The cover of issue 1 is certainly memorable and has been swiped a number of times. Marvel’s Not Brand Echh cover isn’t a direct swipe but it looks at a similar pose from a different angle. Check it out!
Mad #1 October 1952 |
Not Brand Echh #1 August 1967 |
Mod #1 June 1981 |
It’s Science With Dr. Radium #5 July 1987 |
Batman: Gotham Adventures #13 June 1999 Rick Burchett |
On Ebay: Mad Magazine