Hokey Smokes! The world’s largest collection of original art from Jay Ward Productions will be the focus of Heritage Auctions The Art of Moose and Squirrel and the Jay Ward Studios Animation Art Showcase Auction on September 13th.

Jay Ward was the creative force behind the wacky and often subversive animated comedy series “Crusader Rabbit”, “Rocky and Bullwinkle,” “George of the Jungle,” “Fractured Fairy Tales,” and “Dudley Do-Right.” These innovative shows were known for their wit, unforgettable characters, and cultural satire cleverly hidden within the context of a cartoon. Through the combination of limited animation and far from limited humor these shows appealed to kids and adults alike and changed the face of television forever. Not only did they benefit from exceptionally funny writing, the characters were brought to life by the incredible talents of legendary voice actors like June Foray, Paul Frees, Bill Scott, and Hans Conried. It was a dream team that turned clever scripts into comedy gold.

Unfortunately, when it comes to collecting art from these beloved shows, fans have been left wanting. Original production art from Jay Ward Studios is incredibly rare because most of it was destroyed. What survives today is scarce, leaving only a few bits and pieces that have become some of the holy grails of animation art collecting… until now. Heritage’s upcoming The Art of Moose and Squirrel and the Jay Ward Studios Animation Art Showcase Auction will offer the first opportunity to bid on over 300 lots featuring original production artwork, cels, concept art, and color key paintings from an array of Jay Ward Productions. All manner of art will be offered including unique production pieces from the obscure and nearly forgotten live-action Jay Ward shows “The Nut House” and cult classic “Fractured Flickers.” Ever the promotor, Jay Ward never shied away from a good stunt to bring attention to his shows such as his Statehood for Mooselvania campaign—complete with a cross-country tour and an attempted presidential petition at the White House!

Included in this sale is an unparalleled assortment of original art, designs, and rare promotional material from it along with original designs for a Rose Bowl float, holiday poster art, and a plethora of never-before-seen studio ephemera, promotional material, and even studio gifts. This remarkable treasure trove is the result of contributions from the notable Jay Ward collections of Darrell Van Citters, Michael Kadin (Sam Clayberger Archive), Bob Kurtz, Lenna Weidman (The David Weidman Collection), and the June Foray Archive. Over 300 lots will be offered without reserve in this once-in-a-generation opportunity to bid in the largest Jay Ward auction ever: The Art of Moose and Squirrel and the Jay Ward Studios Animation Art Showcase Auction #40296 – September 13, 2025.