Superman #172

Part of DC's sweeping "Our Worlds at War" crossover, this September 2001 issue subtitled "First Strike!" opens with a striking silhouette cover by Ed McGuinness and Cam Smith: Superman, cape billowing against a fiery orange sky, cradles a small child in his arms while the burning rooftops of Smallville — bakery, general store, and bank clearly visible below — signal that the war has hit heartbreakingly close to home. Jeph Loeb's story, "Death Be Not Proud," promises real emotional weight to match that imagery. It's a visually arresting package that captures exactly why this crossover event felt so urgent in 2001.