A Seller’s Guide To Roy Lichtenstein
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Roy Lichtenstein was a key figure in the rise of Pop Art, fascinated by mechanical reproduction demonstrating how printmaking could mimic industrial production in fine art. Lichtenstein has said, “I wanted my prints to be very simple and mechanical... In the prints, you can achieve that sense of perfection.” This seller's guide will help you navigate the process of selling a Lichtenstein print, ensuring you sell at the right time and achieve the best price.
What Is Your Roy Lichtenstein Print Worth?
Lichtenstein's prints have experienced substantial appreciation over the years, underscoring their appeal and significance within the Pop Art movement. Lichtenstein employed a variety of printing techniques including screenprinting, lithography, woodcut, etching, and collage, and he printed his editions on diverse mediums such as enamel, metal, and paper. Editions printed on enamel and metal generally hold higher market value.
For instance, Vicki! I -- I Thought I Heard Your Voice (1964), an edition of eight printed on porcelain enamel/steel, sold for £5.8 million in 2019, making it Lichtenstein's highest-selling print. Another example is Water Lily Pond with Reflections (1992), a screenprint on stainless steel, which is an edition of 23. This piece achieved £1.5 million in May 2023 for a Printers Proof (PP) and £1.1. million in November 2024 for an Artists Proof (AP).
While Lichtenstein experimented with ambitious printing techniques on unique mediums, the highest valued works in his print market owe their market success not only to the materials used but also to the imagery depicted. Prints featuring women, comic book strip imagery, and the Ben-Day dot technique are particularly sought after. These elements contribute significantly to the increasing appreciation of his works over time.
What are Roy Lichtenstein Collectors Looking For?
Lichtenstein’s Nudes Series Leads the Market
When assessing market value, collectors often gravitate toward trending series, and Lichtenstein’s Nudes (1994) series currently ranks among the most sought-after. Nude with Blue Hair, a relief engraving on paper, has demonstrated remarkable appreciation, increasing by 26% annually based on consistent single yearly sales since 2019. In November 2024, this print shattered expectations, surpassing £700,000 for the first time at Sotheby’s Evening Sale - a landmark moment that underscores its growing prestige. The inclusion of Lichtenstein's prints in a high-profile evening auction is especially significant, elevating their provenance and market status.
Other works from the Nudes series have also achieved record-breaking sales, reflecting a broader market trend. The depiction of confident, modern women aligns with contemporary feminist movements and cultural shifts, adding to their desirability.
The Interior Series Gains Market Momentum
Beyond the Nudes series, Lichtenstein’s Interior (199o) series is gaining recognition, with recent notable sales of The Den and Red Lamps. These prints highlight themes of isolation in Pop Art, while their signature Ben-Day dot production reinforces their historical importance.
The Rarity of Complete Sets in Lichtenstein’s Print Market
Unlike other blue chip artists, complete sets in Lichtenstein’s print market are far less common. Instead, individual prints hold greater value, with collectors seeking standout pieces rather than full portfolios.
For a comprehensive breakdown of Lichtenstein’s latest market trends, download The Collector’s Guide to the Print Market in 2025.
Browse Lichtenstein prints on the Trading Floor And Read The Roy Lichtenstein Investment Guide.
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How To Prove Your Roy Lichtenstein Print Is Real
The Roy Lichtenstein Foundation
The Roy Lichtenstein Foundation, established in 1998, was instrumental in authenticating his works until 2011, when it issued Certificates of Authenticity (COAs). However, like many artist foundations, it discontinued this service due to the overwhelming volume of requests and the legal complexities surrounding authentication. Today, the Foundation’s primary focus is on research, scholarship, and preserving Lichtenstein’s artistic legacy.
Roy Lichtenstein Catalogue Raisonné
One of the most essential resources for verifying Roy Lichtenstein’s prints is his catalogue raisonné. The Prints of Roy Lichtenstein: A Catalogue Raisonné 1948-1993, compiled by Mary Lee Corlett and published in 2002, provides a comprehensive listing of all known works, including detailed descriptions, provenance records, and images. This catalogue is widely accessible in major libraries and serves as a key reference for collectors and sellers.
As part of its commitment to preserving Lichtenstein’s legacy and advancing research, the Roy Lichtenstein Foundation has also made the print catalogue available online. This digital archive, structured similarly to the printed version, provides access to over 5,000 works, including paintings, drawings, sculptures, and collages. For anyone looking to sell a Lichtenstein print, cross-referencing it with this catalogue is crucial for confirming authenticity and establishing provenance.
Publications and Documentation
Lichtenstein collaborated with prominent print publishers such as Gemini G.E.L., Tyler Graphics, and Leo Castelli Gallery. These publishers often provided essential documentation, including edition numbers and print types, aiding in authentication. For example, prints published by Gemini G.E.L. will have blindstamps and ink stamps on the reverse, which should match the specifics listed in the catalogue raisonné.
Prints produced by Leo Castelli Gallery, Lichtenstein's exclusive dealer in the 1960s, add another layer of complexity. Castelli often printed exhibition posters and sold them to cover exhibition costs. According to author and Pop Art authenticator Richard Polsky, these were initially printed in editions of 300-350, but more were often printed to cover additional costs, making the exact edition size unknown. While Lichtenstein signed most of these, unsigned ones still hold some value. Authenticating those without a signature requires special knowledge of the paper used and other printing techniques available during that period.
Documentation, including signature, edition number, and date markings, is crucial for verifying authenticity as forgeries have been an issue with these markings. Lichtenstein typically numbered, signed, and dated his prints in the lower right-hand margin, as seen in Nude Reading (1994). However, the exact position can vary between prints. For instance, Reverie (1965) features Lichtenstein's signature in the lower right margin and the numbering in the lower left margin.
Explore Lichtenstein Prints on the Trading Floor and contact us for a complimentary, no-obligation valuation.
Looking To Authenticate Your Lichtenstein Print?
Author and Pop art expert Richard Polsky shares his insights on authenticating Roy Lichtenstein prints in an in-depth article.
How To Care For Your Roy Lichtenstein Print
Roy Lichtenstein’s prints are highly sought after, and their condition plays a crucial role in maintaining their market value. Whether printed on Arches wove paper, Rives BFK, or Japanese Kitakata paper, ensuring proper care is essential to prevent damage and preserve their integrity.
Storage & Display Best Practices
To protect your Lichtenstein print, avoid exposure to light, moisture, or careless handling. If displaying, always frame it under UV-protective glass and keep it away from direct sunlight to prevent fading. For storage, place the print flat in a dark, temperature-controlled environment, avoiding overcrowded spaces that could lead to creasing or warping.
Never Trim the Print
One of the most common mistakes among new collectors is trimming the margins of a print to fit a frame. Any alteration, including trimming, will be immediately detected upon resale and significantly reduce the print’s value. This applies even to Lichtenstein posters, which, while often produced in large runs, retain collector value when kept in their original state.
Paper Aging & Condition Issues
Lichtenstein’s prints, especially those on Arches or Rives BFK paper, are susceptible to darkening, foxing, and staining over time. Any tears, discolouration, or paper deterioration can significantly affect the work’s value. If you notice any signs of wear, it is crucial to consult a professional restorer rather than attempting DIY repairs, as improper restoration can cause irreversible damage.
Best practices for preserving and framing Lichtenstein prints were recently discussed by leading experts in MyArtBroker’s OPEN EDITION live panel: Preserving Value. If you are unsure about the condition or authenticity of your Lichtenstein print, seeking professional guidance is always recommended. Visit The Directory for a curated list of trusted conservators and framers within the art trade.
When To Sell Your Roy Lichtenstein Print
Selling a Lichtenstein print at the right time is crucial for maximising its value. The art market is influenced by broader economic conditions, significant art events, and media coverage, which can all impact the desirability and price of Lichtenstein’s works.
Impact of Major Exhibitions
Exhibitions play a significant role in boosting the market value of an artist's work and can indicate favourable times to sell. For instance, the 2012-2013 retrospective Roy Lichtenstein: A Retrospective at the Art Institute of Chicago and Tate Modern in London reignited interest in his works, leading to increased auction prices and setting several records during this period. Notable sales included: Sleeping Girl (1964) selling for £27.7 million in 2012, and Woman with Flowered Hat (1963) selling for £36.7 million in 2013. Read further for a detailed list of Lichtenstein's highest valued artworks at auction.
Impact of Private Sales
Outside of public auction sales, private transactions can significantly impact an artist's market value as well. In June 2017, it was reported that billionaire investor and art collector Steven Cohen paid $165 million for Lichtenstein's 1962 painting, Masterpiece. This acquisition marked one of the most expensive pieces on record at that time and underscored the peak interest and high valuation of Lichtenstein's work during that period. Consequently, Lichtenstein's print market experienced consecutive growth in sales value and lots sold in the following years. It reached a peak in 2019 with a hammer sales value of £9.4 million from 249 lots sold. This trend underscores the sustained and growing demand for Lichtenstein's art among private collectors and the appeal of private sales.
Media Coverage and Cultural Moments
Media coverage and cultural relevance also affect the timing of sales. For instance, Lichtenstein's works often gain media attention during significant anniversaries of his birth or death, as well as during major art market reports that highlight trends and record sales.
The inclusion of Lichtenstein's works in pop culture references, documentaries, and scholarly articles can significantly spur interest and drive up prices. A notable recent event occurred in June 2023, when the Roy Lichtenstein Foundation announced the donation of hundreds of artworks to museums in the lead-up to his centennial anniversary in October 2023. This gesture has generated considerable excitement in the art community, further elevating the value and market of Lichtenstein's works.
Ways to Sell with MyArtBroker
At MyArtBroker, our specialists provide a free market valuation for your artwork, offering a level of transparency unmatched in today’s market. In addition to our valuations, through our online Trading Floor, you can access real-time insights into works by the artist you’re looking to sell, including pieces that are most in demand, wanted, or currently for sale: allowing sellers to trust the valuation that they are provided.
Additionally, the MyPortfolio collection management service grants you free access to our comprehensive print market database. This resource allows you to review auction histories for the specific work you’re looking to sell, including hammer prices, values paid, and seller returns. In a fluctuating market, this historical data is invaluable - and often comes at a cost elsewhere - offering insights into past and current values to further inform decisions based on market timing and conditions. In addition to our specialists guidance, you have concrete data.
Our approach is tailored to align with the unique attributes of each artwork, and offer optimal results:
How a Private Sale Works
Unlike peer-to-peer platforms, which lack specialised expertise, authenticity guarantees, and legal infrastructure for high-value sales, MyArtBroker operates through private sales ensuring a secure and seamless transaction process. We charge sellers 0% to sell, and take a small commission from our buyers, absorbing essential aspects including insurance, shipping, and marketing - at no extra cost to the seller. There is no magic to it, we’re a lean specialised business with less overheads than traditional models meaning we can do better for our clients.
Our revenue is derived from buyer commissions only, which are individually negotiated upon offer, and we aim to give the client the best return in the market place. By focusing on high-value artworks in excess of £10,000, we provide specialised care and expertise, ensuring each piece receives the attention it deserves, while simultaneously maximising returns with our clients. For works that fall below this threshold speak to the team about a recommendation, we offer market advisory free of charge. Our goal at MyArtBroker is to offer a seamless solution, setting us apart in the art market.
Advisory and Recommendations
In cases for artists and artworks, where our existing network of collectors isn’t the best fit due to value, medium or condition we collaborate with reputable partners to facilitate its sale. Carefully tailoring your artwork to the right party. This tailored approach is especially important as it considers the unique attributes of each artwork, providing sellers with the best possible outcome in today’s shifting art market. You can discuss this approach with us without charge as part of our advisory service.
Such recommendations are on a case-by-case basis, and ensures broader exposure and takes advantage of our knowledge of where a work will do best.
Why Sell Your Roy Lichtenstein Print With MyArtBroker
A Dedicated Expert
Opting to sell your Lichtenstein print with MyArtBroker provides several distinct advantages. Our platform ensures a tailored experience, addressing your specific needs and goals throughout the selling process. Our team of specialists offers complimentary, no-obligation valuations, providing you with an accurate understanding of your print's market value. With extensive expertise in Lichtenstein's works and the art market, we deliver precise and insightful assessments.
Minimise Risk
At MyArtBroker, we emphasise unparalleled transparency and security in the sale of your artwork. Our live Trading Floor offers real-time market data and insights, keeping you informed about current trends and conditions. Our comprehensive due diligence process ensures the authentication and provenance of your piece, minimising the risks associated with counterfeit trading. Additionally, we leverage our internal expertise and collaborate with trusted external partners to further mitigate these risks. We also address the uncertainties of public auction sales, such as unsold items that can impact value and the artist's market, by facilitating private sales that offer faster liquidity outside of auction seasons.
0% Seller’s Fees, 100% of the Time
We stand out from traditional auction houses and private dealers by charging no seller fees, ensuring you retain the maximum amount from your sale. Our approach, combined with targeted marketing strategies, enhances your selling experience. Specialising in rare and special edition prints, we cater to both seasoned collectors and newcomers. We offer complimentary valuations and prioritise digital innovation and targeted marketing through our network and in-house magazine.
Extensive Network
Our extensive network of over 30,000 collectors actively looking to buy and sell prints allows us to quickly connect your Lichtenstein print with interested and serious buyers, maximising your chances of achieving a favourable sale.
Roy Lichtenstein Collection Management with MyPortfolio
Advanced Collection Management
MyArtBroker's MyPortfolio is a comprehensive tool designed to assist collectors in managing and monitoring their Lichtenstein prints and editions while tracking their current values. This feature provides access to our extensive print market database, encompassing over 50,000 auction histories from global auction houses, integrated with our proprietary algorithm, SingularityX. This advanced algorithm analyses public auction and private sales data to deliver real-time valuations for individual prints, considering factors such as condition, colour, and other variables influencing value. Financial Quant expert Stuart Jamieson elaborates on the functionality of these algorithms in an interview.
Smart Art Technology
Navigating today's dynamic digital art market requires sophisticated art technology tools utilised by collectors and industry professionals alike. By incorporating Lichtenstein prints into the MyPortfolio dashboard, users can monitor unique sales opportunities and track market performance in real time, simplifying the sales process. Our cutting-edge technology has revolutionised art portfolio management, enhancing accessibility and providing data-driven insights for informed decision-making.
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What Is the Value of My Lichtenstein Print?
Request a free, no-obligation valuation with our team without hesitation. Track your prints and editions with MyPortfolio.
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