7 Most Referenced Comic Covers

In simpler terms, comic book covers are what draw readers to a book. They serve as the initial interaction between reader and comic, presenting reasons to choose this particular issue over countless others. Throughout the years, there have been numerous remarkable cover designs that have even influenced other covers, becoming iconic in the comic world. Occasionally, artists pay tribute to these legendary designs from the past. Today, we’ll examine seven frequently referenced comic book covers that continue to captivate audiences amidst countless others in the comic universe.

1) The Incredible Hulk #340

This cover showcases an iconic battle between Hulk and Wolverine, one of the most chilling covers ever produced. Their enmity, which started in The Incredible Hulk #180, has been marked by hostility and frequent brawls. This cover effectively conveys the intense animosity between them, and it looks fantastic. Wolverine’s scowl reveals pure malice, while Hulk’s reflection as he roars, powerful enough to break windows, hints at the ferocity of their upcoming fight. The cover does a great job utilizing both characters to express its message, and many Wolverine series have paid tribute to this image in some way. I suspect that most characters capable of such reflective imagery have used it in a cover. In fact, IDW’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #22 employed a similar technique with the Shredder and Casey Jones, and it was even featured in the Deadpool and Wolverine film. If that’s not a nod to their history, I don’t know what is.

2) Justice League (1987) #1

As a die-hard comic book enthusiast, I can’t help but reminisce about the unforgettable series known as “Justice League International”. The moniker might have been adopted only a few issues into its run, but it quickly became synonymous with

The cover of this issue is remarkably straightforward yet bursting with character. Each figure, including the rebellious Guy Gardner, seems to lock eyes with you, daring you to question their presence in this team. Truth be told, it was a bold move to assemble DC’s premier superhero squad with what many might consider a bunch of B-list heroes at the time. But that’s exactly what made this cover so iconic – it challenged our initial perceptions and set the tone for the humorous, character-driven stories within.

This cover remains a staple in discussions about team formation and is often brought up when assembling similar teams. Though it may not be referenced as much today, during its time, it felt like a new rendition of this cover graced the shelves every other month. All in all, it’s a fantastic piece of art that achieved its goal brilliantly.

3) Uncanny X-Men #141

This cover, arguably the most iconic of all X-Men covers, sets a very high standard. It’s the cover for the acclaimed “Days of Future Past” storyline, featuring an aged Wolverine and Kitty Pryde prominently displayed against a wanted poster revealing the grim fate of the rest of the X-Men. This pose, where characters are shown as fugitives hiding behind a similar wanted poster, has been replicated numerous times in comic book history. When you see one or more characters on the run from some formidable authority, it’s likely they’ll be posed this way. This design has inspired countless homages, ranging from Marvel titles like Captain America (2011) #6, to DC titles like Superboy (1994) #26, even extending to unrelated comics such as G.I. Joe (2011) #5. A chilling, timeless cover design.

4) Amazing Fantasy #15

It’s clear that the initial predicament facing Spider-Man will be frequently referenced and paid tribute to in various ways. The iconic image of Spider-Man swinging through New York City while clutching a frightened individual underscores his public perception as potentially menacing, yet someone who ultimately strives to do the right thing. This pose has been recreated by numerous incarnations of Spider-Man in various suits, such as the black suit and even the six-armed version, and it’s also a common theme among alternate universe versions of him. There are countless tributes to this image, with characters like Deadpool from Marvel Comics #11 and non-Marvel characters such as Spawn on cover #221 and Hardcase in issue #24 all paying homage to this classic scene. This motif is straightforward, energetic, and a joy to explore creatively.

5) Flash #123

The iconic Flash cover that you see here stands out as the best of all time, serving not only as a pioneer for the unique format featuring characters with shared names but also as the birthplace of DC’s modern multiverse concept. The Flash comics have undeniably utilized this format extensively due to the scene where the character on the cover summons the Flash, creating a thrilling race between both heroes. It’s worth noting that other notable uses of this format can be found in issues like Sonic the Hedgehog (1993) #9 and Action Comics #445. However, it shines brightest when various versions of a character come together for the first time, either traversing different realities or simply sharing the same name. This format is impressive not only because of its dynamic nature but also due to its ability to set expectations for the specific story that the comic will unfold. In every aspect, this cover is nothing short of exceptional.

6) Action Comics #1

As a die-hard comics fan, it’s no secret that when Spider-Man’s original comic is frequently referenced, it means Superman’s iconic debut gets its well-deserved shine too. The enduring image of Superman hoisting a green car over his head has been replicated more times than any other comic cover, in both the pages and beyond. Superhero adaptations often pay tribute to this scene, either through nods in their cover art or by recreating it in live action, like when Superman picked up that very same green car in the Superman and Lois series. Other comics have also honored this legacy; for instance, Wonder Woman lifted something similar in her first appearance in Sensation Comics #51, while Spider-Man wrecked a cop car on the cover of The Amazing Spider-Man #306. There’s no denying that this comic cover is one of the most recognizable in history, and it goes without saying that the superhero comic book genre got off to an amazing start with it.

7) Uncanny X-Men #136 / Crisis on Infinite Earths #7

These two comic book covers, “Uncanny X-Men” and “Crisis,” are interconnected and significant, making it difficult to discuss one without the other. The former was published prior to the latter, setting the stage for the latter’s release shortly after. Both covers draw inspiration from the Pietà, a renowned statue depicting the Virgin Mary with the dead Jesus, a theme commonly used in comics. However, these covers stand out due to their unique interpretations.

In “Uncanny X-Men,” Cyclops is depicted carrying Jean’s lifeless body, his face etched with despair as he cries out to the heavens. The sorrowful expressions of his teammates can be seen in the background. The composition mirrors that of the “Crisis” cover, where Superman laments over his deceased cousin. Notably, both men hold the dead women in a remarkably similar stance, with “Crisis” serving as an obvious tribute to “Uncanny X-Men.”

While “Crisis on Infinite Earths” is more popular and often more referenced, it would be incorrect to suggest that all homage covers only reference the latter. This is because the “Uncanny X-Men” cover played a crucial role in its creation. Both covers are masterpieces that have left an indelible mark on the history of comics, showcasing the extraordinary efforts made by their respective publishing companies to produce exceptional stories and artwork. We should all appreciate the remarkable covers adorning our comic books.

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2025-07-20 16:40