Top 10 Most Expensive Autographs Ever Sold

Introduction

Autograph collecting is a hobby that has been around for centuries, with collectors amassing an impressive collection of signatures in various fields over the years. Some of these autographs are so rare and unique that they fetch millions of dollars at auctions around the world. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the most expensive autographs ever sold.

1. George Washington – $9.8 million

The most expensive autograph ever sold belongs to none other than the first President of the United States, George Washington. This autograph was sold at auction in 2012 for a staggering $9.8 million, making it the most expensive autographed item ever sold.

2. Abraham Lincoln – $3.4 million

Abraham Lincoln’s signature is one of the most sought-after in the world of autograph collecting, and it’s not hard to see why. The former President’s autograph is rare, and when found, collectors will pay top dollar for it. In 2012, a Lincoln-signed copy of the Emancipation Proclamation sold for $3.4 million at auction.

3. John Lennon – $2.9 million

John Lennon was not only a legendary musician and one of the Beatles, but he was also an avid signer of autographs. His autograph is highly sought after, and in 2010, his signed lyrics for the song “A Day in the Life” sold for $2.9 million at auction.

4. Marilyn Monroe – $1.2 million

Marilyn Monroe’s signature is among the most iconic in history, and it’s no surprise that collectors are willing to pay top dollar for it. The Hollywood legend’s autograph on a signed photograph sold for $1.2 million at auction in 2018.

5. Albert Einstein – $1.1 million

Albert Einstein is widely regarded as one of the greatest minds of the 20th century, and his signature is just as valuable. In 2017, a signed letter he wrote to a colleague discussing physics sold for $1.1 million at auction.

6. Babe Ruth – $388,375

Baseball legend Babe Ruth’s signature is highly coveted by collectors, and his autograph on a baseball sold for $388,375 at auction in 2014. Ruth’s signature is so popular that forgeries are common, making the value of a genuine signature even higher.

7. Jimi Hendrix – $200,000

Jimi Hendrix was a groundbreaking musician who left a lasting impact on the music world. His signature is highly sought after, and in 2008, a guitar he signed sold for $200,000 at auction.

8. Neil Armstrong – $152,757

Neil Armstrong’s signature is rare and highly sought after, particularly on items related to the Apollo 11 mission and the first moon landing. In 2011, a signed photograph of Armstrong on the moon sold for $152,757.

9. William Shakespeare – Unknown value

William Shakespeare’s signature is almost impossible to find, with only six confirmed examples known to exist. Because of this, the value of a genuine Shakespeare signature is incalculable, with some estimating it could be worth millions of dollars.

10. Martin Luther King Jr. – $130,000

Civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr.’s signature is highly sought after, particularly on items related to his speeches and other writings. In 2018, a signed copy of his book “Strength to Love” sold for $130,000 at auction.

FAQs

What makes an autograph valuable?

Several factors determine the value of an autograph, including the rarity of the signature, the condition of the item signed, the authenticity of the signature, and the significance of the person who signed it.

What is the most expensive item ever sold at auction?

The most expensive item ever sold at auction is Leonardo da Vinci’s painting “Salvator Mundi,” which was sold for $450.3 million in 2017.

Are autographed items a good investment?

As with any investment, there are no guarantees, but rare autographs on items with historical significance can increase in value over time.

What is the most valuable autographed sporting item?

The most valuable autographed sporting item ever sold is a baseball signed by Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Ty Cobb, and others, which sold for $343,650 in 2017.

What is the most expensive autographed album?

The most expensive autographed album ever sold is John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s “Double Fantasy” album, which Lennon signed for his killer, Mark David Chapman, just hours before his death. It sold for $525,000 in 1999.

What’s the difference between a signed copy and a signed limited edition?

A signed copy is any copy of a book or other item that has been signed by the author or another notable person. A signed limited edition is a specific number of copies of a book or other item that have been signed and numbered by the author or another notable person.

Can autographed items be insured?

Yes, autographed items can be insured as part of a broader collection or individually. However, it’s important to choose a reputable insurance provider and to document the item’s value and authenticity.

What is the most valuable autographed movie poster?

The most valuable autographed movie poster is the original “Star Wars” poster signed by the film’s stars, which sold for $26,400 in 2017.

What is the most valuable autographed musical instrument?

The most valuable autographed musical instrument ever sold is a guitar signed by all four members of the Beatles, which sold for $408,000 in 2013.

What is the most common autographed item?

The most common autographed item is a baseball, with countless players and other personalities signing them for fans over the years.

Where can I find rare autographs?

Rare autographs can be found at auction houses, vintage bookstores, and online marketplaces specializing in collectible items.

What is the best way to store autographed items?

Autographed items should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Items should be stored flat or in acid-free sleeves or containers to prevent damage over time.

Can autographs fade over time?

Yes, autographs can fade over time, particularly if the item is exposed to sunlight, extreme temperatures, or humidity. It’s important to store autographed items properly to prevent fading and damage over time.