“Ghidorah, the Three-Headed Monster” (三大怪獣 地球最大の決戦), Original Japanese First-Release Movie Poster 1964 — Rare, B2 Size (51 × 73 cm) (G)

This is an original Japanese B2 theatrical poster printed in 1964 for the first release of Toho’s kaiju classic Ghidorah, the Three-Headed Monster (三大怪獣 地球最大の決戦). Released in Japan on 20 December 1964, it is the 5th film in the Godzilla series, directed by Ishirō Honda with special effects by Eiji Tsuburaya—a pivotal early entry that introduces King Ghidorah and delivers one of Toho’s most iconic “all-star” monster matchups.

Offered here in unrestored, excellent (verging close to near mint) condition, this example is a true collector-grade survivor—and the first time we’ve had this title back in stock since 2021. For a serious kaiju collector, this is not just desirable—it’s a centre-piece Toho era poster that is extremely hard to find even in Japan, especially in this level of condition.

Film background
Often cited as one of the standout early Showa-era Godzilla films, this entry brings together Godzilla, Rodan and Mothra—initially unwilling allies—who must ultimately unite to stop the newly arrived King Ghidorah, a destructive three-headed space dragon.
The film remains widely admired decades later, with Rotten Tomatoes’ Godzilla rankings placing it among the better-reviewed series entries (Tomatometer listing).
Notably, the modern Hollywood film Godzilla: King of the Monsters (2019) revived this exact four-monster “headline lineup” (Godzilla / Mothra / Rodan / King Ghidorah) for a new generation.

Poster design
This is peak early-60s Toho spectacle design—bold, kinetic, and packed with “promise of scale.”
Key visual highlights include:

• King Ghidorah dominating the composition, wings spread wide, with the three heads blasting beams—an instantly recognisable franchise image.

• The wonderful Japanese theatre-poster touch: yellow arrow labels naming each monster on the artwork (ゴジラ / ラドン / キングギドラ / モスラ), giving the sheet a lively “guide map” feel.

• 総天然色 (“Full Colour”) printed prominently—classic period hype for audiences seeing colour kaiju destruction at maximum intensity.

• The Toho mark (東宝) at the top corner, anchoring it as true studio theatrical paper.

• A striking detail: the musical-staff motif across the top border—graphic, unusual, and very “Toho house style” for the era.

Rarity and release clarification
This is the 1964 first-release Japanese theatrical B2 for 三大怪獣 地球最大の決戦 (released 1964-12-20).
Early Toho kaiju paper is heavily reproduced and frequently misrepresented—especially for top titles—so correct first-release examples in premium condition are exceptionally sought after.

Authenticity
There are many reproductions and later copies of Toho kaiju imagery in circulation. Rest assured: this is 100% original, vintage Japanese theatrical print on correct period paper—not a modern reproduction. Certificate of Authenticity included.

Rarity and condition
A genuinely scarce first-release Toho B2 for a cornerstone kaiju title—made even more special by the fact it is unrestored and presents in excellent, close-to-near-mint display condition. We have provided multiple high-resolution photos so you can assess every detail with confidence.

Condition
Excellent. Please review the photos—they show the exact poster for sale.

Many of our items are sourced from across Japan, often privately, as our owner is Japanese and has an extensive network across Japan of dealers and collectors developed over almost ten years.

It is over 62 years old!
It is not a reproduction or a reprint.
Certificate of Authenticity included.