1890s – 1910s

Back in the late nineteenth century, the earliest versions of posters were very basic, mainly showcasing the timings and locations to see the films.​

Slowly the filmmakers discovered the marketing potential, and commissioned more visually alluring designs, marking the start of movie poster art as we know it today.​

Posters from this era rarely come available and are extremely rare.​

1920s – 1940s

Posters from the golden age are celebrated for their artistic beauty and craftsmanship.​
They capture the glamour and​
allure of early Hollywood, making them prized collectors' items for their historical and aesthetic value.​

Some of the rarest and most expensive posters are from this era, with sale highs such as a Dracula one sheet (1931) for $525,800 in 2017, and a Casablanca (1946) Italian four sheet for $478,000 in 2017.​

1950s – 1970s

These vintage posters are bold and innovative. They reflect the cultural shifts of their time, making them not just visually striking but also rich with historical significance.​

Highlights from this era include Audrey Hepburn's Breakfast at Tiffany's (1961), Sean Connery's Goldfinger (1964) and Star Wars (1977).

1980s – 2000s

Posters from this era are full of cult classic charm, capturing the essence of some of the most beloved films and making them iconic pieces that continue to inspire a sense of nostalgia and admiration among fans. ​

Highlights from this era include Ferris Bueller's Day Off (1986), ​The Goonies (1985) and Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981).

2000s – Present

With the advent of the internet and digital media, movie posters have become incredibly creative and complex. There’s been a resurgence of minimalist and retro-inspired designs.​

While not yet vintage, these posters show how design and technology has evolved.​

Most posters from this period are currently low end and accessible, with some recent classics such as The Grand Budapest Hotel (2014) achieving £875 in February 2024 (Propstore).​