The mission? To select the most unforgettable manga cover from all 42 volumes released in Japan. Fans from every corner of the Earth and beyond cast their votes, driven by nostalgia, passion… or just a dangerous obsession with spiky-haired clowns.

Whatever your reason… thanks for participating. (Not that I care. Hmph.)

The Results Are In — And Honestly, I’m Not Surprised

Now behold — the top 3 covers that rose above the rest!

1st Place: A Tie?! Volume 1 and Volume 42

Of course. The beginning and the end. The naïve brat who started it all… and the battle-hardened warrior he became.
August 2025 marks not only the 40th anniversary of DRAGON BALL but 30 years since Volume 42 hit shelves in 1995, the final chapter in a story that reshaped galaxies.

Sentimental fools, the lot of you.

3rd Place: Volume 27 — The Super Saiyan Awakens!!

Finally, some taste.
This volume captures the pinnacle of Saiyan power — Goku’s transformation into a Super Saiyan during the Frieza saga. The legendary golden hair. The rage. The raw, unrelenting power. It’s the only volume cover in the entire series to showcase Goku in this awakened form — and it even dares to slap a cheeky “27” on his chest!

It’s bold. It’s iconic. It’s the closest he’s ever come to deserving the title of warrior. Almost.

Ranks 4 Through 20 — Did Your Favorite Make the Cut?

The rest of the list features covers that clearly stirred the hearts of fans across universes.
Some fierce. Some funny. Some so nostalgic, even I can feel a faint twinge of emotion. Just a twinge.

Go see where your favorite volume landed, if it even had the strength to break into the top 20.

This Anniversary Isn’t Over Yet!

The 40th anniversary celebration continues with even more exclusive merchandise featuring the legendary art of Akira Toriyama. Posters, figures, collectibles… you name it.

And the fun doesn’t stop there. Rumors swirl of new projects on the horizon. Hmph… Let’s see if they can live up to the legacy.

Want More? Check the Official 40th Anniversary Site:

https://dragon-ball-official.com/specials/dragonball40th/