Some history:
In 1986 jump ramps were all the rage. Easy to build, portable and fun to launch off of. Unfortunately, decks were snapping left and right. Powell-Peralta deck returns were so high the company sought ways to make decks stronger and more resistant to jump breaks. One solution was Bonite construction. Another was the "Gee-Gaw" shape which had bumps to reinforce the break zone area. Why "Gee-Gaw?" Ask Chris Iverson. This shape was also used for the Ripper graphic. They were produced between 1987 and 1988.
About the art:
The Rodriguez "Skull & Sword" deck was the first pro signature deck graphic produced by Powell-Peralta. The graphic was conceived by Ray and Illustrated by V.C. Johnson with art direction from George Powell in 1979.
About Powell Peralta 7-Ply Maple Decks
Powell Peralta® decks are made in the USA at our own skateboard manufacturing factory in Santa Barbara, CA using U.S. hard rock maple, AirLam fused with Type 1 glue and are warranted against delamination for their useful life.