Mars Attacks: 50th Anniversary Collection (Topps)

“A true gem of American pop culture history that should be a centerpiece on any true geek’s coffee table.”*

This comprehensive book is the first-ever compilation of Mars Attacks, the infamous science-fiction trading card series produced by Topps in 1962―and includes four bonus trading cards. 

Edgy, subversive, and darkly comedic, this over-the-top series depicting a Martian invasion of Earth has a loyal following and continues to win new generations of fans. For the first time, this book brings together high-quality reproductions of the entire original series, as well as the hard-to-find sequel from 1994, rare and never-before-seen sketches, concept art, and test market materials.

Also included are an introduction by series co-creator Len Brown and an afterword by Zina Saunders, daughter of the original artist, providing an insider’s behind-the-scenes view of the bizarre and compelling world of Mars Attacks. Includes preliminary sketches and artwork, including a facsimile of the original trading card mechanical on the inside back cover, with a reproduction of the 1962 handwriting from the original Topps production department.

“The work produced by writer Len Brown and artist Norm Saunders, collected now in the anthology Mars Attacks: 50th Anniversary Collection . . . continues to pass muster as a lurid snapshot of sci-fi paranoia at its most pulp-fictiony.” ―Wired.com

*Houston Press Art Attack blog

The Topps Company, Inc., founded in 1938, is the preeminent creator and brand marketer of sports cards, entertainment products, and distinctive confectionery.

Len Brown (1941–2026) was a writer, editor, and longtime Topps creative executive who spent more than four decades developing groundbreaking trading card properties. He co-created the original Mars Attacks series in 1962 and helped shape numerous Topps classics, including Garbage Pail Kids and Wacky Packages.

Zina Saunders is an artist, illustrator, animator, and writer whose work spans books, editorial illustration, and animation. She lives in New York.