Avalon Ballroom 9/16-17/66

Undoubtedly the most famous poster from the Family Dog series, as well as the most recognized image ever used by the Grateful Dead. The central image is a drawing done by Edward Joseph Sullivan, a late 19th and early 20th century artist. Sullivan created this drawing to illustrate one of the quatrains of the Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam. Mouse and Kelley added the color, as the original drawing was in black and white. The resulting poster has lived on through time and has increased in value at a dramatic pace. Since most of these posters were hung on walls at the time of the concerts, many exhibit severe damage and discoloration. Finding a Near Mint original poster will require a lot of patience, as well as an open checkbook. We sold a top-condition CGC graded 9.9 original sold recently for $116,150 - making a second or third print the option for most collectors.

The original poster was printed on vellum and measures approximately 14″ x 20″. The notation “The Bindweed Press San Francisco” appears immediately above the right side of the ticket strip. Many originals show some degree of over-inking.

The second print poster was printed on vellum and measures approximately 14″ x 20″. The notation “26(2)” appears in the lower left corner, as well as the Bindweed credit.

The third print poster was printed on uncoated index stock and measures approximately 14″ x 20″. The notation “26(3)” appears in the lower left corner.

We also offer a 1998 silk screen Art Print that was produced by Stanley Mouse in a limited edition. These measure approximately 22" x 30" and are drop dead gorgeous!

In addition to these authorized printings, there are three other authorized reprints.

There are seven different forgeries of this poster, all of which are listed in the guide by Eric King. By far, the most common is the unauthorized reprint that does not have the Bindweed credit and also eliminates the “Mouse! Studios-66” credit. Another commonly seen forgery is the one that bears the “San Francisco Poster Co.” credit.

The original handbill was printed on thin paper and measures approximately 8 ½″ x 11″.