A different Dynamic Duo…
As we noted in the latest RETRO HOT PICKS, this week marks the 55th anniversary of “Captain America and the Falcon,” when Marvel decided to give Sam Wilson headline billing along with Steve Rogers. The title was still technically Captain America, but the move defined the series for most of the ’70s — still very much a beloved era for both heroes.
With that in mind, here are 13 COVERS, beginning with Captain America #134 — which was released Nov. 3, 1970. (The title’s cover designation lasted through 1978’s Captain America #222, though there were a few issues here and there when the Falcon’s name wasn’t used.)
Here goes:
Marie Severin pencils, Herb Trimpe inks. (Cap’s redrawn face by John Romita.)
John Romita
Sal Buscema
Romita
Romita
Romita, with background inks by Tony Mortellaro
Gil Kane pencils, Joe Sinnott inks
Jack Kirby pencils, Frank Giacoia inks
Kirby and Giacoia
Romita
Kirby and Giacoia
Sal Buscema pencils, Giacoia inks
Kirby and Giacoia
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MORE
— Dig JOHN ROMITA’s Original Color Design for THE FALCON. Click here.
— RETRO HOT PICKS! On Sale This Week — in 1970! Click here.
November 7, 2025
What a great collection for what became a great pairing.
November 7, 2025
Re: The #143 cover, readers got a preview of Sam’s new costume an issue before he was wearing it.
November 7, 2025
Being a child of the late 60’s / early 70’s, I always liked the Cap & Falcon partnership and how it was a response to the Civil Rights movement to see Marvel introduce it’s first African American super hero. It was also good for Cap to have a partner in the wake of (what was then believed) Bucky’s death. While I don’t begrudge Sam Wilson’s evolution in becoming a 2nd Captain America, I miss and still prefer the uniqueness of him being the Falcon – a hero in his own name & right.
November 8, 2025
Those late Kirby covers are the best
November 12, 2025
That run may not be comics greatest, but it is a personal greatness and hit me a the right age. Loved Sal Buscemas work and art too.