10 Rare Anime Posters That Sell for Big Bucks Today

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Akira 1988 Movie Poster 

The 1988 Japanese movie poster for Akira is a highly sought-after collectible, featuring vivid artwork of Tetsuo and Kaneda, the film’s iconic protagonists. This poster, which originally debuted in Japan to promote the release of the film, has become a major item for anime enthusiasts and collectors. Its significance lies not only in the film’s impact on the genre but also in its visual design, which captures the essence of the post-apocalyptic cyberpunk world depicted in Akira.

Today, this poster can sell for as much as $1,200 depending on the condition. The Japanese version, in particular, remains rarer than its English counterparts, making it even more valuable to collectors looking for original and authentic pieces.

Neon Genesis Evangelion TV Series Poster

The Neon Genesis Evangelion TV series poster from the 1990s holds a nostalgic value for many anime fans. This particular poster features the main characters of the series, Shinji, Rei, and Asuka, set against the backdrop of the imposing Eva mechs. Released at the height of the series’ popularity, this piece of memorabilia encapsulates the emotional and visual intensity of the show, making it a fan favorite.

Currently, an original Evangelion TV series poster can fetch around $800. Posters in pristine condition or with signatures from key cast members or the director can see their value rise even further, especially in auction settings.

Dragon Ball Z Frieza Saga Poster

This Dragon Ball Z poster featuring the iconic showdown between Goku and Frieza is an essential collector’s item for DBZ fans. The artwork captures the dramatic intensity of one of the most beloved sagas in anime history, with vibrant colors and striking poses of the characters. Originally printed to promote the airing of the Frieza saga in Japan, this poster has become a treasured piece for many who grew up watching the show.

The current market value for this poster is estimated at $600 to $800. Its price can increase depending on the quality and the specific version, with rarer prints fetching higher amounts.

Cowboy Bebop Poster

 The Japanese release poster for Cowboy Bebop, one of the most influential anime series of all time, is a stunning example of art that resonates with both anime lovers and art collectors alike. Featuring the main characters Spike Spiegel, Faye Valentine, and Jet Black, the poster offers a glimpse into the unique fusion of sci-fi, noir, and jazz elements that defined the series. This poster represents the beginning of Cowboy Bebop’s global reach, making it a significant piece in the world of anime memorabilia.

A well-preserved version of this poster can sell for around $900. Its value continues to grow as Cowboy Bebop remains a cornerstone of anime culture, with newer fans continuing to seek out original, high-quality prints.

Studio Ghibli’s My Neighbor Totoro Poster 

Studio Ghibli posters, particularly those for My Neighbor Totoro, are some of the most iconic in the world of anime. The original Japanese release poster, featuring the lovable Totoro and his companions, holds an important place in Ghibli’s history. It is both a celebration of the animation studio’s artistic vision and a tribute to the timeless charm of the characters.

This rare poster can sell for $1,000 or more in excellent condition. Its price depends largely on its preservation, with folded posters generally fetching less than rolled ones.

Perfect Blue Promotional Poster

Perfect Blue, the psychological thriller from director Satoshi Kon, has remained a critical favorite, and its promotional posters are in high demand among collectors. The striking artwork used to promote the film captures the surreal and haunting themes of the movie, with a focus on the central character, Mima, and her descent into madness. Released in 1997, this poster has become a collector’s item due to the film’s growing cult following.

Today, an original Perfect Blue poster can reach up to $800. The demand for it has increased as the film’s influence on the anime and horror genres has grown.

Akira Toriyama’s Dr. Slump Poster

Before Dragon Ball, Akira Toriyama’s Dr. Slump was one of the most popular manga series in Japan, and its promotional posters from the 1980s have become highly sought-after collectibles. This poster features the eccentric robot girl Arale, a character who helped define Toriyama’s early career. Dr. Slump was known for its quirky humor and charming characters, and this poster is a snapshot of that whimsical world.

The market value of this poster is approximately $400 to $600, with original prints from the 1980s being particularly rare. Its price can fluctuate depending on its condition, but it remains a valuable piece for Toriyama fans.

Trigun Poster

Trigun is a beloved anime series with a strong cult following, and its promotional posters are among the rarest and most sought-after anime memorabilia. Featuring the protagonist Vash the Stampede, this poster captures the series’ mix of action, comedy, and deep philosophical themes. Originally printed to promote the series’ broadcast in Japan, it remains a standout piece for collectors.

Depending on the condition, this Trigun poster can be valued at around $500. Its rarity increases due to the show’s limited release and the enduring popularity of its characters.

Ghost in the Shell 1995 Movie Poster (Japanese)

The 1995 Japanese movie poster for Ghost in the Shell is an iconic piece of anime history, showcasing the powerful and thought-provoking imagery of the film. Featuring the central character, Major Motoko Kusanagi, the poster reflects the movie’s deep exploration of cybernetic enhancements and artificial intelligence. As one of the most influential anime films ever made, this poster continues to be a favorite among collectors.

This original Ghost in the Shell movie poster is valued at $1,000 or more, depending on condition. Given its status as a groundbreaking anime film, its market value continues to rise as demand for classic anime memorabilia increases.

Yu Yu Hakusho Poster (1990s)

The Yu Yu Hakusho poster from the 1990s is a sought-after piece for fans of the action-packed anime series. Featuring the protagonist Yusuke Urameshi and his team, this poster captures the intense battles and supernatural themes of the show. The series was immensely popular during its original broadcast, and this poster became a key piece of promotion, marking its place in anime history.

Today, a well-preserved Yu Yu Hakusho poster can sell for around $600. The poster’s value is influenced by its condition and rarity, with some versions being even more valuable if they come from the early days of the show’s broadcast.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.