Thanks CaptainCorella - that's cool you have a have a copy bought in '70/'71.
I've read all about that poster throughout the years and recall seeing that site- in fact I think there was another thread here not too long ago relating to Martin Sharp (maybe around the time he passed away?).
From the site
"There is some mystery over the size and colouring of the earliest printings. For example, a copy is known which was purchased in Oxford Street, London, during 1970/1 and is the large 36 x 48 inches in size.
This version does not include the bright reds seen in later prints, but rather a pale orange. Despite some fading with time, the colours are stated by the owner as close to the original print as purchased new.
The inscription along the bottom of this original version of the poster is printed in black and reads: MS16 Hendrix by Martin Sharp. Published by Big O Posters Ltd., 219 Eversleigh Road London SW11 01 228 3392"
"Martin Sharp, Jimi Hendrix, MS16, Big O Posters, London, 36 x 48 inches. First printing"?
Below is the original poster as published by Big O Posters, late 1968 - also 36" x 38".
I'm assuming that by the time you bought your copy in '70/'71, it maybe had faded by being displayed at the shop in direct sunlight? Or maybe has faded over the years?
________________________________________________________________________
Original photo - Linda Eastman:
_____________________________________________________________Rip this joint, gonna save your soul, round and round and round we go......