Action Comics #37

In "Commissioner Kent," a 1941 classic from the early days of Superman's mythos, Clark Kent finds himself at the center of a citywide crisis when Metropolis's police leadership falls victim to a pattern of violent assassinations. Written by Jerry Siegel and illustrated by Paul Cassidy, the story sees Clark confronting the eerie link between corrupt politicians and the city's criminal underworld—only to be stunned when he's urged to step into the role of Commissioner himself. Fred Ray's dynamic cover captures the tension of the moment, making this a standout issue in the series' formative years.