Banksy, Rude Copper, 2002.

One of Banksy’s most iconic and provocative early prints, Rude Copper (2002) is widely recognized as his first commercial screenprint release. This bold black-and-white composition captures a traditional British police officer in full uniform, staring directly at the viewer with a smug expression while extending a defiant middle finger. Using dramatic foreshortening, Banksy thrusts the gesture aggressively forward, creating an immediate sense of confrontation and dark humor.

Produced in collaboration with Pictures on Walls (POW), this piece subverts the image of the friendly “bobby” to deliver a sharp critique of authority, police overreach, and institutional hypocrisy. Inspired by the UK’s controversial Terrorism Act 2000, it reflects Banksy’s ongoing tension with law enforcement and his anti-establishment ethos.

Details:

•  Medium: Screenprint on paper

•  Year: 2002

•  Edition: Limited to 250 unsigned (numbered with red Banksy tag stamp); rare signed and hand-finished variants exist

•  Image Size: Approximately 47 x 32.5 cm

•  Sheet Size: 59.8 x 41.4 cm (approx.)

•  Publisher: Pictures on Walls, London

•  Authentication: Accompanied by a full Pest Control Certificate of Authenticity

A cornerstone of any Banksy collection, Rude Copper remains highly sought-after on the secondary market, with recent auction results for unsigned examples ranging from £10,000–£20,000 and signed pieces achieving £40,000+ (as of 2025).

Available now – contact us for pricing, condition reports, and framing options. All works are guaranteed authentic with Pest Control certification.