The Savage Sword of Conan #40

This May 1979 magazine-format issue of The Savage Sword of Conan features a brooding, atmospheric cover painted by John Buscema, depicting a massive stone-skinned creature looming over a rocky precipice where a crouching woman cowers and a sword-wielding Conan stands his ground. The contrast between the hulking, grotesque monster and the muscular barbarian poised for combat captures the tension that defines Robert E. Howard's world perfectly. Inside, Roy Thomas scripts "A Dream of Blood" with art by John Buscema and inks by Tony DeZuniga — a creative team that consistently delivered some of Conan's most compelling adventures.