Should I get my first edition signed or not?

Question: Should I get my first edition signed or not!?

I own a first edition book, unread and in fine condition (A Game of Thrones, by George R!.R!. Martin) from 1996, will the value of this book likely decrease or increase from a signature by the author here in 2008!?Www@QuestionHome@Com

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker:

If you can get it signed I'd go for it!. I think that series has around 3 books out with 1 to go, if you could get the set as 1st edition signed it likely increases the value even more!. On the other hand it may be too much effort in a market that is too niche!.

e-bay is the cheap market research tool of the century, go take a look at what people are asking for recent better known fantasy fiction - say Orson Scott Card, Stephen Donaldson, etc!., check first edition vs!. signed first edition pay particular attention to auctions that actually have bids that are above the minimum - many auctions look interesting and imply a good price, but if nobody is bidding above the minimum that tells you that the market is illiquid and may not be worth too much of an investment - it'll be hard to realize the value for the uniqueness unless you can find exactly the right customer, who may not even exist!.

Right now, prices are <10 for 1st edition, maybe 14-30 for signed first edition, but nobody is bidding!. May be a bad time for prices in markets like these with the underlying stock market meltdown and credit crunch!. That could mean that distressed sellers might give up a 1st edition to complete your set for next to nothing - it may be worth contacting some and offering to take a 1st edition off their hands for 20% of the asking price, if nobody is buying they just might take it!. If not, it only costs you a little time sending offers!.Www@QuestionHome@Com

Chances are that it will eventually increase the value of the book!. They generally do!.Www@QuestionHome@Com