Original Walt Disney video re-release promotional poster for The Sword in the Stone (1964), the classic animated fantasy adventure directed by Wolfgang Reitherman, based on the novel by T. H. White. This poster was produced in the 1980s for home video and video rental store promotion, as part of Disney’s “The Classics” branding campaign, and was intended for in-store display, not theatrical cinema use. Artwork & Design The artwork features one of the most iconic images in Disney animation history: young Arthur (“Wart”) pulling the sword from the stone, bathed in magical light, while Merlin, Archimedes, and the supporting characters look on in awe. This design closely follows the classic Disney illustrated style, with soft airbrushed shading and a painterly finish typical of 1980s Disney promotional artwork, rather than the flatter offset designs of earlier theatrical posters. The inclusion of “The Classics” Walt Disney Home Video logo clearly identifies this as a post-theatrical re-release, created during Disney’s early push to establish its animated features as collectible “classics” for home audiences. Film Significance Released in 1964, The Sword in the Stone is one of Disney’s most enduring animated features, blending medieval legend, fantasy, and humor. Directed by Wolfgang Reitherman, the film represents the late Walt Disney era and was among the last animated features released during Disney’s lifetime. Its whimsical tone, memorable characters, and magical set-pieces have made it a staple of Disney’s animation legacy. The film’s resurgence in the 1980s home video era introduced it to a new generation, making promotional material from this period increasingly collectible today. Format & Origin Country: USA Year: c. 1980s Original video re-release / rental store poster Size: approx. 26 × 40 inches (66 × 102 cm) Studio: Walt Disney Productions Series: The Classics (Walt Disney Home Video) Printing: Offset lithography Folded: Yes (as issued) This poster was not sold commercially and was supplied directly to video rental stores for promotional display. Printing & Paper Period-correct offset printing Semi-gloss paper stock typical of 1980s Disney promotional posters Strong color saturation and clean illustration detail Original factory fold lines present Condition Very good vintage condition. Original folds from distribution Light handling wear consistent with age No major tears, losses, or restoration Image area remains clean and highly displayable Please review photos carefully for exact condition. Collector’s Importance While not a theatrical one-sheet, original Disney 1980s home video promotional posters have become increasingly sought after, especially for major animated classics. This example is particularly appealing to collectors of: Walt Disney animated classics The Sword in the Stone memorabilia Disney home video & VHS era ephemera 1980s Disney promotional artwork Fantasy & animation collectors These posters bridge the gap between theatrical history and the rise of Disney’s home video empire, marking a pivotal moment in Disney collecting. Shipping Poster will be shipped flat between rigid protective cardboard layers to preserve folds and prevent damage during transit.