Banksy Prints Explained: The Differences Between Signed, Unsigned, and Originals

To anyone, who enjoys art in general or is a fan of street art in particular, the name Banksy would be familiar. His work, which conveys profound and politically sensitive messages, uses satire and, in effect, many of his murals are on the streets of global cities, brightening collectors’ and fans’ collections. Finding Banksy signed prints for sale in the UK, unsigned prints, or actual original artworks might feel like trying to find one’s way through a labyrinth. With a little help though, you will be able to find out how to own one of the world’s most famous artist’s paintings.

This guide will aim at giving details of various kinds of Banksy prints that are in the market, how to verify the originality of the prints, and where to get them in the UK.

Why Collect Banksy Prints?

Banksy’s art is not just about beauty – it is about the social, political and the cultural. This man has remained an unknown man and his style has been anti-establishment but due to this very reasons his pieces have become some of the most popular arts globally. Street art by Banksy always demands public discussion and critical analysis of society, which is why his prints are worth much much more than just their market price.

Buying Banksy is not just owning a painting but owning an object that will only appreciate in value as the social and artistic icon he becomes entrenched. Whether you’re interested in acquiring one of the signed print releases, a piece with no signature of the artist, an original artwork piece – you are getting more than art. You are becoming of part of the storytelling that Banksy is doing worldwide.

Types of Banksy Prints: Signed, Unsigned, and Original

When it comes to sale Banksy prints, there are three primary options: prints, monotypes, and open prints, and even drawings as signed prints, unsigned prints, and originals. All have advantages and come at different costs, therefore, let’s carry out a comparison to understand the differences.

Banksy Signed Prints

Original limited edition prints which are signed by Banksy are his finest creations out of the material he routinely leaves behind for the public to find. These prints are a series and are produced in limited number and comes with the signature of the artist which increase their value significantly. Banksy signed print runs are usually somewhere in the region of 150 prints, and as such such pieces are highly sought after in the art world. This is apart from its authenticating function and is also at the same time a major factor influencing the piece’s collectibility and hence return on investment in the future.

The autograph from Banksy gives it a personal touch and people feel they are owning something from him, the artist. It is quite an attractive feature of art collectors in their abilities to get a direct touch with the artist in addition to the image. Unsigned prints are cheaper than signed ones but it has often been observed that signed prints have better scope for investments. For any one who wants long term investment value or sentimental value, signed prints by Banksy are the best bet.

Banksy Unsigned Prints

For anyone wanting to invest in Banksy art that signed pieces are out of your league, unsigned prints are perfect. In this case, the unsigned Banksy prints are considered to be limited editions, although in the number of about 600-750, therefore they are considerably rarer but not as expensive as the signed prints. They might not carry a sign of the artist on them but they remain very valuable pieces of art and they are 100% made by Banksy.

If you are not so keen about the idea whether or not the print’s authenticity is signed by Banksy, but you just love art and appreciate the idea being depicted, then you should consider buying unsigned Banksy prints. These prints are also perfect for beginning collectors or those who wish to try becoming a Banksy owner yet don’t want to pay the primary market prices.

Banksy Original Prints

Authentic Banksy prints are the artwork that the artist has himself produced and might be issued in a significantly lower quantity or unique series. These are typically obtainable through galleries or perhaps auction premises and are normally expensive since they are only offered as novelties. To acquire an authentic piece by Banksy, one has to give much thought to acquiring and authenticate the work because fake art in existence is a big business.

Collectible prints are closest to the original artworks, and by practice are certified by a COA from Pest Control, which is Banksy’s official authentication agency.

How to Ensure Authenticity

Unfortunately, as the popularity of Banksy grew the market has been quickly filled with fakes. In fact, depending on the picture that you are buying, whether a signed print, the unsigned print or even the original painting, you want to be sure that what you’re paying for is original.

1. Pest Control Authentication

Pest Control is the only lawful agency to request and give confirmation of Banksy’s pieces as the problem of fakes started to occur later on. All original Banksy prints whether hand signed or unsigned will be accompanied by a Pest Control certificate. This document is imperative when buying any piece from Banksy and equally has a lot of value when attached to the artwork.

Without the Pest Control certificate, your Banksy print may be seen as a replica or, even worse, a fake, so claim this certificate every time you buy from any dealer. The certificate of authenticity normally accompanying any reputable gallery or auction house will be issued.

2. Total list and inventory of reliable Galleries or Sellers

Avoid buying sculpture art from unknown galleries or auction firms, but rather should be from reputable ones. Any reputable seller of prints will give an unbroken chain of custody of the prints they are selling which is important when you are trying to ascertain the authenticity of your Banksy print. Some websites like 727 gallery deal with genuine Banksy print and prints, signed as well as unsigned therefore freeing the buyers.

Avoid making purchases through online shops that have unknown sellers, and in any case, when getting prints, make sure that these are accompanied by certificates and ownership records.

3. Research and Market Knowledge

Unfortunately, to get into buying a Banksy’s print, it is necessary to know the market for his artworks. Find out the average market prices for signed and unsigned prints and also learn about the more popular editions that have been faked. As you become an informed buyer, you will ensure you do not spend so much money for a car that will be losing value soon, instead you are likely to buy a car that is an asset that will fetch you a higher price when sold in the market.

Banksy Signed Prints For Sale – Where to Buy

It is for this reason that there are well established galleries and auction houses in the UK that deal in Banksy pieces. This is perhaps the best way to looking for a Banksy signed print, an unsigned edition or an original piece as highlighted below.

1. 727 Gallery

Internet shop 727 Gallery is one of the most famous online stores containing great choice of Banksy prints, both signed and unsigned. It has good relations with collectors and presents a selection of fine art prints with certificated authenticity. From novice collectors to experienced art buyers who are in the process of trying to purchase a Banksy print, 727 Gallery stands ready to help find his buyer.

2. Auction Houses

Banksy’s prints are regularly available in large auction houses including Sotheby’s, Christie’s and Bonhams. This is one of the most advisable methods when buying signed prints and other genuine original Banksy work pieces. But you may want to brace for high bidding war anew, with Banksy’s works only gaining in frequency and price.

3. Online Marketplaces

Sites such as Artsy or Artnet usually feature Banksy prints. Although these places can be very helpful, do remember to check carefully who is selling your merchandise, and always insist that the prints bought come with a Pest Control certificate. While using Internet portals could be less safe than buying directly from the galleries or auction, the last ones, as a rule, allow to find a greater number of unique works with different prices and editions.

Banksy Signed Prints Under £1,400: Is It Possible?

Although fans of the graffiti artist may remember that it was possible to find Banksy signed prints for under £1,400 in the past, it is almost impossible to do so now. Well, the prices have also grown in parallel with the popularity of the signing artist, Banksy. Currently, it is possible to start a bidding for an unsigned Banksy artwork for several thousand pounds while unique products can cost a whole lot more on the auction.

However for buyers on a relatively; restrictive budget, unsigned prints are a feasible way to access the Banksy market. In the case of unsigned prints, there is no writing on them from the artist but they are as valuable as any other limited edition artwork prints.

The Future Worth of Banksy Prints

The art of Banksy has expanded in popularity and as people incorporate this art into their homes, the value of his prints raise in parallel. Both signed and unsigned prints have been able to rise in value from the past years and not only are these prints artistic and lovely pieces to exhibit but it is also a worthy and profitable investment.

At the same time, those who plan to invest in the Banksy signed or unsigned print, should take this into account: they will certainly have to pay even more money for it in the future. There will be a continuous demand for brand new, original pieces of artwork for many years to come which is why these pieces from Banksy will be popular in the foreseeable future.

Final Thoughts

To have a Banksy print is not just a piece of art, it is possessing a history of an art revolution. Whether it is signed or unsigned prints or mot obtaining an actual painting, the process of obtaining anything from Banksy is as exciting as the art itself.

When buying such products always check the genuineness of the products and ensure that you buy from reliable sellers you have researched on. If you’re ready to venture into the world of Banksy prints – visit 727 Gallery; our prints are authentic and of the highest quality.