Machine Man #9

Machine Man's impassive metallic face dominates this striking December 1978 cover by Jack Kirby and inker Bob Layton, framed by a battery of heavy weapons aimed directly at him from all sides — with armed adversaries closing in and a determined bearded figure at center bottom pressing the assault. The cover boldly declares this "the most dramatic turning point in the Living Robot's career," and with a title like "In Final Battle!" it's hard to argue otherwise. A tense, visually commanding issue that captures Machine Man at his most cornered and compelling.