National Comics #38

From Quality Comics' wartime run, this January 1944 issue of National Comics features a cover by Alex Kotzky that puts Uncle Sam front and center — tall, triumphant, and raising two fingers in victory as he and a scrappy young Buddy stand atop a pile of defeated enemy soldiers. The cover promises an "Extra!" feature teasing the mystery of the "Boat of the Dead," giving the whole image a pulpy, adventurous energy that feels right at home with the patriotic spirit of 1944. Kotzky's linework is confident and dynamic, making this a fine snapshot of Quality Comics at full stride.