“Mobile Suit Gundam” (機動戦士ガンダム), Original Japanese Character Poster c. 1980s, Cosmos, B3 Size (c. 36.4 × 51.5 cm) S149

This is an original 1980s Japanese character poster for Mobile Suit Gundam, bearing the Cosmos manufacturer’s mark and copyright credits for Sotsu Agency and Nippon Sunrise. 

Measuring approximately 36.4 × 51.5 cm, the design presents the RX-78-2 Gundam against a dark blue and black background. Brilliant primary colours and a commanding viewpoint give the compact B3 format considerable visual impact.

Film background

Mobile Suit Gundam began as a 1979 television series, directed by Yoshiyuki Tomino and produced by Nippon Sunrise, before being adapted into a theatrical trilogy.

The story follows Amuro Ray and the crew of White Base during the war between the Earth Federation and the Principality of Zeon. Its treatment of military conflict, civilian suffering and divided loyalties helped establish a new direction for robot animation.

The Gundam’s mechanical design, associated with Kunio Okawara, became central to the franchise’s visual identity. This poster celebrates the original mobile suit rather than advertising a specific theatrical instalment.

Poster design

The RX-78-2 Gundam fills almost the entire sheet, viewed from below to emphasise its scale. Its beam rifle extends diagonally towards the lower-left corner, while the tall red shield frames the right side.

White armour, a blue torso and vivid red and yellow details stand out against the atmospheric background. Strong outlines preserve the directness of traditional animation artwork.

At upper left, an oversized turquoise “G” surrounds the Japanese and English branding:

「機動戦士ガンダム」
“Mobile Suit Gundam”

The lower margin carries the rights-holder and manufacturer’s credits. No individual poster illustrator is identified, and the absence of release dates or cinema billing distinguishes this sheet from a conventional theatrical advertisement.

Cultural significance

The composition celebrates one of Japanese animation’s most recognisable mechanical designs. Its focus on the original Gundam, with minimal supporting text, gives it particular appeal as a piece of vintage character merchandise and a compact display poster.

Condition

Excellent. The poster retains strong colours and clear detail. Light creasing and surface wear are visible, particularly across the dark background, with scattered marks and age-related spotting on the reverse. Please review the photographs—they show the exact poster for sale.

This is an original 1980s Japanese vintage character poster.
It is not a reproduction or a modern reprint.

It is approximately 40 years old

Certificate of Authenticity included.