One of the most confusing aspects for beginning (and even experienced) collectors is understanding what makes a print an original. An original art print is not a reproduction, it is a unique image created and executed expressly for the print medium. 

The process starts with an artist drawing an image directly onto litho stones, etching onto copper plates or working with silkscreens. A specific number of impressions are printed (hence the term "limited edition") by the artist. Upon completion, the artist pencil signs and numbers each original print. The plates, screens or stones are then either destroyed or cancelled, and no more will ever be printed.

What causes original prints to increase in value?
As a limited-edition print becomes more scarce, the value increases. But consider this important checklist:

Artist: The more renowned the name, the greater the price. Signed and numbered original prints by very famous masters, either living or deceased, will sometimes increase in value virtually month to month.

Quality: What is the medium? What type of paper is used? How good is the impression? Is there an accompanying certificate of authenticity?

Edition: Is it limited? To what number? Is it rare? Is it mentioned in any publication? Was the design surface destroyed?

Signature: A graphic that is signed in the plate or stone is usually not as highly valued as an identical print that is also personally signed.

Condition: Is the print perfect? Damaged or creased in any way? If damaged, can it be repaired?

Date: Was the edition made after the artist's death? Was it made without the author's authorization during his/her lifetime? Was the plate reworked?

Subject: What is the picture about? Is it creative? Will it appeal to the taste of many people or just a few?

Provenance: Was this impression (or any other impression in the edition) owned by a museum? A famous collection or collector? A celebrity?

Here are a couple of examples of successful investing