Are artist proofs more valuable?
Table of Contents
- Are artist proofs more valuable?
- Why are artist proofs more valuable than prints?
- What is the difference between a print and an artist proof?
- Do numbered prints have any value?
- What is a signed artist proof?
- Why are limited edition and artist proof prints more valuable?
- Why are artist's proofs considered the best?
- Why are offset lithographic editions less than 20 percent Artist Proof?
- What does an AP or artist proof mean?

Are artist proofs more valuable?
Proofs Add to the Edition Size Traditionally, artists kept these proofs for their personal collections—and artworks that belonged to the artists themselves will be more valuable in today's market. Proofs are also highly desirable if they are in some way unique, such as those that feature notes from the artist.
Why are artist proofs more valuable than prints?
Even though artists proofs are often presented as a gift, time and again, they're often sold. They are typically bought by collectors. Due to their scarcity, they're often deemed more valuable than a limited edition print and, often costlier.
What is the difference between a print and an artist proof?
Historically, the artist proof had a different meaning than it does today. Today, the Artist Proof is a small print edition with the size being determined by the artist and print maker. Many artists print 10-15% of the original edition, but at P. ... The artist is the owner of the Artist Proof edition.
Do numbered prints have any value?
The print run number is vital for determining the value of a print. ... As far as print run numbers are concerned, the rule is simple: the smaller the number the bigger the value. First impressions in the print run usually reach higher prices since they are considered to be the closest to the artist's original idea.
What is a signed artist proof?
An artist's proof is an impression of a print taken in the printmaking process to see the current printing state of a plate while the plate (or stone, or woodblock) is being worked on by the artist.
Why are limited edition and artist proof prints more valuable?
Limited edition prints are a great choice, and here’s why: 1. A limited edition print is a reproduction of the original artwork. What makes it special is that, when it is printed, the artist or publisher will assign a specific number of prints to be made. This group of prints is referred to as an edition and each print in the edition is numbered.
Why are artist's proofs considered the best?
Because of this, the first prints off the printing press were the highest quality and were designated “artist’s proofs”. The artist’s proofs were considered to be the best prints within the edition and often the artist kept them. Technology has changed quite a bit since the early days of printmaking.
Why are offset lithographic editions less than 20 percent Artist Proof?
Most offset lithographic editions and Giclee editions include less than 20 percent artist’s proofs. Because the art world loves rarity and since there are fewer artist’s proofs than regular prints, they are preferred by many collectors.
What does an AP or artist proof mean?
As with paintings the AP or artist proof is a copy of the photograph outside of the numbered edition, historically made as a test and reserved for the artist’s own collection or to be shown in gallery, museum shows or given as gifts.