Grateful Dead 1966 Acid Test Graduation Poster at S.F.'s Winterland (AOR-2.209). ...

Description

Grateful Dead 1966 Acid Test Graduation Poster at S.F.'s Winterland (AOR-2.209). An original Day-Glo red paper advertising poster for the end of an era, the Acid Test Graduation, scheduled for Winterland in San Francisco on Halloween night, Monday, October 31, 1966. Two of the biggest counterculture names in history are present on this rare poster: the Grateful Dead and Ken Kesey & the Merry Pranksters, including Neal Cassady.

Features quite compelling artwork done by Hells Angel and frequent poster artist Gut. Measures 12 1/2" x 19 7/8" and grades to Poor condition, included in this auction only because of its rarity and historical importance. And to give the moderate-funded collector a shot at one of these without having to pay the $16,000 that our last "normal" one went for (in 7.5 Very Fine Minus). COA from Heritage Auctions.

Literature: See Grushkin, Paul, The Art of Rock: Posters from Presley to Punk, Abbeville Press, New York, 1987, p.194 (illus.).

More Information: Also listed on the poster are the Caliope Co. and the AAA (Anonymous Artists of America) plus many guest "Stars," the poster says with a question mark. Even "Have You Passed" sneaks its way onto this poster.

Things did not go as planned, as promoter Bill Graham did his best to bust things up when rumors spread that everyone in attendance might get dosed with LSD. The Dead moved on to a show at California Hall this evening, and the Graduation itself was moved to an out-of-the-way warehouse. Diplomas were indeed handed out and Kesey & the Pranksters were all in attendance, so the Graduation took place and those who were there will never forget it.

Condition details: Almost all damage to this poster is visually apparent in our pictures. Most of the poster's bright Day-Glo red has been muted by black paint on the back showing through. Although, interestingly, the whole poster still "pops" nicely in Day-Glo orange when it's under a blacklight.

The top two corners have missing paper, and the poster's top center edge has two nicks of staple tear-aways. There are multiple pinholes / staple holes in all corners and the center point of all four margins. From the top center down the left side, there are silver paint splatters. On the lower 1/3 of the poster, from about "Graduation" on down, lots of bits of surface color have flaked away (but just coloring, not actual paper). As for the verso... well what can we say, it looks like an Acid Trip itself!


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.