Humbug November 1957

Published in the United States, Humbug Issue No. 4 from November 1957 is an exceptional and highly collectible vintage satirical magazine created by MAD Magazine founder Harvey Kurtzman alongside legendary graphic artists Jack Davis, Will Elder, Al Jaffee, and Arnold Roth. Published during a seminal era of American humor illustration, Humbug delivered sharp political commentary, media parodies, and sophisticated graphic irreverence that profoundly influenced modern satirical publishing.

The front cover features a distinct red outer border with FIFTEEN CENTS printed in top corners, enclosing an ornate black-and-white double-bordered inner frame. Across the top, the title HUMBUG is rendered in prominent white serif typography above the date NOVEMBER '57 and code CDC. The central artwork features a detailed cross-hatched engraving portrait of Queen Victoria adorned with a crown, lace veil, and ornate dress, humorously pinned with tags reading MY FAIR LADY and PROPERTY OF MADAME TUSSAUD. Across the lower third, a bright yellow banner reads WELCOME TO THE QUEEN in bold magenta and black capital letters, while the bottom margin displays 15c - A STEAL and TAKE IT AWAY FOR 15c. Inside, the issue includes original comic strips, illustrated parodies, and visual gags. An essential centerpiece collectible for vintage comic history archives, Harvey Kurtzman collections, MAD Magazine history libraries, and classic American satirical publications.