A famous film does not make an expensive poster. A scarce printing of it does, and so does a sheet that nobody has taped.
What moves the number
- Which printing — original release, reissue, reproduction
- Size — measured, not named
- Condition of the paper, especially at folds and corners
- What has been done to it — backing, repair, trimming
- Whether it is a set, and whether the set is complete
Where to start
Reproductions and common reissues: low start, fast pace, honest title. They are good room-builders and nobody is disappointed by a clearly described reproduction.
Original printings in good paper: a low start on a quiet night is how a scarce sheet leaves for a tenth of its worth. Set a reserve.
Sets and singles
Lobby card sets sell better complete than split, and a split set should say it is a partial set. Say the count both ways: how many you have, and how many were in a full set if you know it.
Pacing
Large paper takes time on camera — the sheet flat, the reverse, the corners. Three or four substantial pieces well shown will beat a dozen rushed.
Questions people ask
How do I price something with no comparable sales?
Start low and let the room decide, or set a reserve at the number you would be content with. Those are the two honest options.
Does a famous title guarantee interest?
It guarantees viewers. Bids come from the printing and the paper.
Should a reproduction have a reserve?
Rarely. It is priced by the image, and the room will find that number quickly.
More: how auctions find a price, selling cinema memorabilia.