Weird Western Tales #53 (1979)

Weird Western Tales was one of several titles DC offered in the 1970s as an alternative to the more standard spandex-clad hero fare. War, romance, mystery, and horror were other popular genres. Weird Western Tales is famous for its showcasing of Jonah Hex. However, the title also featured the Native American hero Scalphunter, seen here arm-wrestling President Abraham Lincoln in what was, presumably, a fair contest to decide reservation boundaries and limitations of manifest destiny. The artistry of Dick Ayers delivers a cover featuring the sinewy determination of the story's Old West hero.

Swamp Thing #1 (1972)

Swamp Thing, created by Len Wein and Bernie Wrightson, presents a mixture of the macabre and marvelous in the character of scientist Alec Holland who finds himself transformed into the titular muck-encrusted hero in this first issue from 1972. Centered in the swamps of Louisiana, the bayou hero would undergo major transformations at the hands of successive artists like Gerry Conway and Alan Moore. Nevertheless, it is Bernie Wrightson's orignal concept art shown here which summarizes the fusion of humanity and nature that would be the series's longstanding draw.

Kamandi #1 (1972)

Kamandi, the Last Boy on Earth is another example of the timeless art and creativity of Jack Kirby. This series, produced during Kirby's time with DC comics, presents an alternate timeline of Earth where humanity is an endangered species and animals have mutated and evolved to become the dominant, warring rulers of the planet. On this cover for issue 1, the clear lines and classic Kirby characterization are evident, accented by the inks and letters of Mike Royer.