A hand-signed Peter Max print from an exhibition often shows up as an autographed poster rather than a numbered limited edition. That distinction matters: a signed open-edition poster can be collectible, but it is valued differently than a signed, numbered serigraph or a hand-embellished limited edition.
The most reliable way to price your piece is to document what type of print it is, confirm the signature looks correct and consistent, and gather any provenance from the show (gallery receipt, invitation, framing label, or certificate).
This guide walks through those steps using the common scenario behind legacy “appraisal report” posts: a poster/print believed to have been signed at an exhibition in Palm Beach, Florida (December 11 to January 15, 1987).
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Appraisal value: what a hand-signed exhibition poster can be worth
Based on the legacy appraisal record for this item, a reasonable working range for a hand-signed Peter Max exhibition poster/print in good, display-ready condition is:
- $550–$700 (assuming the signature is authentic, the sheet is not heavily damaged, and the piece is not a later reproduction)
That range can move depending on format and documentation. For example, a numbered limited edition serigraph with publisher documentation can trade differently than an unnumbered poster that was signed at an event.
What you actually have: poster vs. limited edition print
In listings and family stories, “print,” “poster,” and “limited edition” are often used interchangeably. For appraisal purposes, try to classify the work into one of these buckets:
- Open edition poster: mass-produced and not numbered; may have a printed signature (facsimile) within the image.
- Hand-signed poster (autographed poster): an open edition poster that has been signed by hand in the margin. These are often unnumbered.
- Numbered limited edition print: typically signed and numbered (e.g., “72/300”) in the margin; may list the medium (serigraph, lithograph).
- Hand-embellished / mixed-media limited edition: may have extra paint or marker enhancements. These require close inspection.
If you only see a signature but no edition number, that does not automatically mean the piece is “lesser”—but it does usually mean the market treats it as an autographed poster rather than a limited edition.
Authentication checklist (signature, margins, paperwork)
Your goal is to document enough consistent details that a buyer (or insurer) can understand why the signature and print are likely authentic. Use the checklist below.
- Signature medium: hand signatures are typically in pencil or marker on the margin, with natural pressure variation. Printed signatures look flat and identical from print to print.
- Placement: many signed posters are signed in a lower margin. If the signature is inside the artwork area, confirm whether it is printed or truly on top of the ink layer.
- Edition markings: check carefully for any numbering (e.g., “xx/xxx”), a title, a date, or a publisher chop/blindstamp. Document exactly what is written and where.
- Paper + printing: the sheet should feel appropriate for its printing method. Screenprints (serigraphs) often show distinct ink layers; posters may be offset-printed.
- Provenance: exhibition paperwork (receipt, invitation, gallery label, COA) can support the claim that the piece was signed at a specific show.
Condition issues that commonly lower value
Posters and prints are highly condition-sensitive. Even when the image looks great on the wall, the margin and paper condition often drives the appraisal.
- Foxing: small brown speckles caused by moisture/age (often worst in margins).
- Fading: bright pigments can fade from sunlight; check for uneven coloration near the mat window.
- Creases or handling marks: especially near corners if it was ever stored rolled or folded.
- Trimming: cut margins can remove edition marks or change how buyers interpret the sheet.
- Acid burn / mat burn: discoloration where old mat board contacted the paper.
If the piece is framed, photograph the back and note whether it appears to be archivally framed (acid-free mat, UV glazing) or a standard frame package.
Provenance notes: exhibition details to preserve
If your paperwork or family history mentions the piece being signed at an exhibition, preserve those details. In this case, the legacy record references a Peter Max exhibition at Frankel Gallery, 125 Worth Avenue, Palm Beach, Florida, running from December 11 to January 15, 1987.
Helpful documentation includes: gallery receipts, invitation cards, letters, photographs from the event, or a frame shop label noting where/when it was purchased.
What photos to take (fastest path to an accurate value)
- Full front shot, straight-on (include the entire sheet or visible margins)
- Close-up of the signature (include surrounding paper texture)
- Close-up of any numbering, title, blindstamp, or printer/publisher marks
- Raking-light close-up (helps reveal ink texture and surface condition)
- Back of frame / backing paper (labels, framing notes)
- Any paperwork (receipt, COA, invitation)
How to sell a signed exhibition poster safely
Your selling route should match the format. Autographed posters often sell well on high-visibility marketplaces, while limited editions may do better through a gallery or auction channel that can present the edition details properly.
- Online marketplace (eBay, etc.): strong reach, but you must photograph margins and signature clearly.
- Consignment gallery: can help explain format/edition and screen buyers.
- Specialist auction: best when you have strong provenance and clear edition documentation.
Packing note: ship framed prints with corner protection, rigid boards, and padding to prevent glass damage. If shipping unframed, use a tube and acid-free interleaving paper, and avoid creasing.
Search variations collectors ask
Readers often Google these questions while researching Peter Max signed prints:
- How much is a hand signed Peter Max exhibition poster worth?
- How can I tell if a Peter Max signature is real or printed?
- Is a signed Peter Max poster considered a limited edition?
- What photos do I need for a Peter Max print appraisal?
- Does missing edition numbering lower the value of a Peter Max print?
- How does foxing or fading affect signed poster value?
- Where is the best place to sell a signed Peter Max poster?
- What paperwork proves a print was signed at an exhibition?
Each question maps to the identification, authentication, and selling guidance above.
References
- WorthPoint listing (example of a signed Peter Max poster sale record): https://www.worthpoint.com/worthopedia/peter-max-signed-poster-penny-love-413228793
- Appraisily legacy appraisal record (WordPress post ID 13006) for “A hand signed Peter Max Print from the Peter Max Exhibition.”
Wrap-up
Signed exhibition posters can be a great collectible category, but value depends on clearly documenting the format. Focus on clean photos of the signature and margins, confirm whether there is any edition information, and preserve any gallery paperwork tied to the show. With that documentation, you can defend your value range and choose a sales channel that matches the print type.