Grateful Dead 1966 Acid Test Graduation Poster Graded 6.0 (AOR-2.209). ...

Description

MARKED THE END OF AN ERA, TO SAY THE LEAST

Grateful Dead 1966 Acid Test Graduation Poster Graded 6.0 (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 scarce poster: the Grateful Dead and Ken Kesey & the Merry Pranksters, including Neal Cassady. 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. Features quite compelling artwork done by Hells Angel and frequent poster artist Gut.

Measures 12 1/2" x 19 7/8" and was graded a restored 6.0 Fine by CGC (the Certified Guaranty Company), with the Day-Glo red still very bright and robust. From the David Swartz Concert Poster Collection. 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: In CGC's purple grading strip, it states, "Restoration includes: Small amount of color touch, reinforced."

As for the Graduation, 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.


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