The Avengers #148

The Squadron Supreme means business on this June 1976 cover, penciled by Jack Kirby and inked by Mike Esposito — their leader hoists a limp Thor overhead while Captain America, Iron Man, and the rest of Earth's Mightiest Heroes lie sprawled and defeated at their feet. With the Vision inset in the corner and the bold declaration "Stand aside, Avengers — the Squadron Supreme is taking over!" blazoned across the image, the stakes couldn't feel higher heading into "20,000 Leagues under Justice!" Inside, Steve Englehart writes and George Pérez pencils, making this a genuinely compelling 1976 package for fans of both powerhouse art teams.