Many artists, photographers, and designers will create limited editions of their work. Each edition, especially when it comes to photography, is usually counted—1 out of 25, 2 out of 25, for example. As the numbers increase, the price and the demand go up as well. Let’s say I have already sold 10 of the 25. The cost of the pieces from 11 to 25 will be higher for the simple fact that the photograph or collection is running out. The only way someone would be able to purchase a piece that has already been sold is if it shows up in an auction or if you’re lucky enough to find it in a gallery (if its a photo) or vintage shop or flea/antique market.
Here’s what else I’ve learned from my own experience collecting as well as creating limited-edition pieces:
BE CURIOUS Don’t be afraid to ask the dealer a barrage of questions about the origins of a piece. Getting to know what you’re considering buying will help you decide if it’s worth pursuing for nostalgic, aesthetic, or investment purposes. Do additional research online: Google old auction catalogs for that specific item and edition to determine what exact facts you’ll need to know.
ASK FOR PROOF See if the dealer has a “certificate of authenticity” to verify details about the piece, such as when and how it was made, the name of the people involved in it’s production, and its edition number. This is most important if you ever want to re-sell the item in the future.
GET IT IN WRITING When a dealer doesn’t have a certificate, then see if he/she will kindly write down whatever information is known about the piece right on your receipt or bill of sale.
DOUBLE CHECK Blind faith in a dealer can be nerve-wracking. However, the more you do this, the more you know. When my husband and I go to Portobello Road, we always bring this book of hallmarks for sterling silver. It helps us identify an item’s rich history. My husband is also a super sleuth when it comes to tracking down an item’s past online.
TRUST YOUR TASTE If you find something you love then get it, especially if it’s a good price. The edition number (or lack there of) shouldn’t be a deciding factor. Once you’ve fallen for a piece, why fight it?
For more advice about collectibles and how to display them in your home, check out my new book LIVING WITH WHAT YOU LOVE.
[Photography courtesy of eBay, where this Warhol screenprint is on sale]
Published on June 28, 2010
While there are many sites today dedicated to the pursuit of fashion and style, here at MRK Style we approach these subjects through a collector’s lens. Through exploring how people relate to Art, Family, Fashion, Food, Film and Travel—essentially life’s various, everyday obsessions—we reflect on how we all live with the things we love. 
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