Skip to main content
Go to accessibility options

Description

Grateful Dead 1966 S.F. State "Whatever It Is" Acid Test Handbill. An original handbill for the last-ever legal Acid Test held, because LSD was outlawed in California just a few days later. Given that fact plus the music of the Grateful Dead and the attendance of chief Merry Prankster Ken Kesey, you have a highly important cultural collector's item in this flyer and a visually compelling one to boot. The design was supplied by Stewart Brand, an important early scenester who co-promoted the Trips Festival and went on to design the Whole Earth Catalog.

Alternately nicknamed the "X handbill" and "Whatever It Is" handbill, this piece advertised the goings-on at San Francisco State over Friday, Sept. 30 and Sat.-Sun., Oct. 1 & 2, 1966. Be there or... be square. Measures 8 ½" x 8 ½" and grades to Mint condition. From the Tim Backstrom Grateful Dead Collection. COA from Heritage Auctions.


Heritage Auctions provides as much information as possible but strongly encourages in-person inspection. Condition statements are offered as general guidance only, not as complete representations of fact, and do not constitute a warranty or assumption of liability by Heritage. Some condition issues may not be noted but may be visible in the photos, which are considered part of the condition report. Lots estimated at $1,000 or less are not de-framed for inspection, and we may be unable to provide additional details for lots valued under $500. Heritage does not guarantee the condition of frames and is not liable for damage to frames, glass/acrylic coverings, original boxes, display accessories, or artwork that has shifted in the frame. All lots are sold "AS IS" under our Terms & Conditions of Auction.

Auction Info

Auction Dates
July, 2025
11th-12th Friday-Saturday
Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: 18
Lot Tracking Activity: N/A
Page Views: 328

Buyer's Premium per Lot:
25% of the successful bid per lot.

Sold on Jul 12, 2025 for: $2,750.00
Track Item