1990 Marvel Universe Promo Cards
The 1990 Marvel Universe promo cards.
Before the official 1990 Marvel Universe set was released, these promos were handed out at a convention in cello packs. According to Bob Budiansky, they were used to test the product and prove its validity to Marvel before the full release.
Only 20 cards were made, all featuring original artwork by comic book artist Tom Morgan.
So how do you spot one in the wild?
Look for these two key details:
- The back is different — it does not say, “Produced & distributed by Impel Marketing, Inc.”
- The finish is glossy, not matte like the widespread release.
And here’s the wild part…
When these cards actually surface, recent sales show they can sell for more than better-known 1990 Marvel Universe collectibles — including diamond promos and even some holograms.
They’re incredibly rare, historically significant, and still flying under the radar — so much so that even PSA hasn’t fully recognized their place in Marvel card history.
If you ever come across one, don’t overlook it. This is the kind of find Marvel card collectors dream about.
So start the hunt, flip over those MU90 cards, and look for those promos.
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