Original James Bond Movie Art for "Thunderball" Sells For $275,000

American artist and illustrator Robert McGinnis has created more than 1,200 memorable paperback book covers as well as several iconic movie posters, but it was his original movie poster illustration for the 1965 James Bond classic that left bidders shaken and stirred.

The original illustration for Thunderball (11-7/8 x 18-5/8 inches) sold for $275,000 in robust bidding at Heritage Auctions Illustration Art Signature Auction event October 7.

Robert McGinnis (American, 1926), James Bond: Thunderball, movie poster illustration, 1965, gouache on board, 11-7/8 x 18-5/8 inches, sold for $275,000 including premiums. Courtesy Heritage Auctions

In addition to his work on James Bond films, McGinnis, 96, has several iconic movie posters to his credit, including Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961) and Barbarella (1968). His work for the James Bond series led producer Barbara Broccoli to say, “[McGinnis] captures the wit, excitement, and adventure of Bond in a series of brushstrokes.”

Movie poster for "Breakfast at Tiffany's" (Paramount, 1961). Courtesy Heritage Auctions

Movie poster for 1968 science-fiction film "Barbarella" with original art by Robert McGinnis. Courtesy Heritage Auctions

Paul Kennedy is Editorial Director of the Collectibles Group at AIM Media. He enjoys Mid-century design, photography, vintage movie posters and people with a good story to share. Kennedy has more than twenty-five years of experience in the antiques and collectibles field, including book publishing. Reach him at PKennedy@aimmedia.com.