Question about UPC/barcode stickers on early ’90s Marvel direct editions
Has anyone seen early 1990s Marvel direct-edition comics where a UPC/barcode sticker was placed over the direct-edition art box?
I’m researching Venom: Lethal Protector #1 copies that have a barcode sticker over the Spider-Man box. I’ve seen more than one example, and I’m trying to figure out whether this was a distribution/newsstand-use practice, a retailer/distributor workaround, or something added later.
I’m not looking for an appraisal or trying to sell anything. I’m mainly interested in whether longtime collectors, dealers, or former shop owners remember seeing these barcode-sticker copies when the book was originally distributed.
Any info or memories would be appreciated.
Posted Jun 25, 2026, 5:02 PM UTC
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