The PFC40 Autograph Index
PFC40 AUTOGRAPH INDEX 2024 HIGHLIGHTS
Growth of the index in 2024
Average annual simple growth of the index between 2000-2024 (825% over 24 years)
Growth of an Elon Musk signed photo in 2024 – the biggest rise in the past 12 months: from £3,000 to £5,000
The rise in value of Taylor Swift's signature from 2005 (the year she signed her first record deal) to today – from £10 to £750
Investing in autographs: Paul Fraser Collectibles' PFC40 Autograph Index unveils best performers
The latest edition reveals tech billionaire Elon Musk's signature was the best performer in 2024 – up 66.7% in value from £3,000 to £5,000.
- At £55,000, Steve Jobs is the most valuable signer, a result of his reluctance to sign, early death and Apple’s iconic status.
- Taylor Swift is the best performing autograph of the 21st century, up 74,900% per annum since 2000.
- Paul McCartney and Elon Musk are the two most valuable living signers, at £5,000.
Elon Musk
Elon Musk is arguably the most famous man in the world right now. So it's no surprise his autograph jumped from £3,000 to £5,000.
Despite being a polarising figure, Musk has a strong army of devotees pushing his signature to new heights.
His achievements in the future will determine whether his autograph is worth significantly more in the years to come.
Music autographs on the rise
Music-related autographs are rising in value at a fast pace. As evidenced by two standout performances from musicians born 46 years apart: George Harrison (up 60% in 2024) and Taylor Swift (up 20% in 2024). The Beatles, the Stones, Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin and Queen all saw their autograph values rise in 2024.
Positive numbers across the index
The index showed a strong 7.7% return in 2024. In times of political and financial uncertainty, autographs have traditionally been a safe haven for investors. Look for increased growth ahead, as investors continue to turn to tangible assets such as autographs as a hedge against an unpredictable stock market.
Waiting for their moment: three names who could make the top 40 next year
· Buzz Aldrin (last man alive from Apollo 11 mission), demand for his autograph continues to rise
· Pink Floyd (cult following remains as strong as ever)
· Abraham Lincoln (rising in value and increasingly popular)
Most valuable living signatures (signed photos unless otherwise stated)
- Paul McCartney: £5,000
- Elon Musk: £5,000
- Prince William (signature): £4,500
- JK Rowling (signed book): £3,500
- Ringo Starr: £2,500
Most valuable deceased autographs
- Steve Jobs (signed magazine): £55,000
- Stephen Hawking (signed book): £32,500
- Pele (signed jersey): £25,000
- Albert Einstein: £14,000
- Princess Diana: £13,000
Best performing autographs between 2000 and 2024
- Taylor Swift: Up 3,121% per annum to £750
- Elon Musk: Up 2079% per annum to £5,000
- Steve Jobs: Up 454% per annum to £55,000
- Kurt Cobain: Up 246% per annum to £6,000
- George Harrison: Up 167% per annum to £8,000
Best performing autographs in 2024
- Elon Musk: Up 66.7% to £5,000
- George Harrison: Up 60% to £8,000
- Taylor Swift: Up 25% to £750
- Ringo Starr: Up 25% to £2,500
- Pele (signed jersey): Up 25% to £25,000
About the PFC40 Autograph Index
The PFC40 Autograph Index tracks the values of 40 of the world’s most sought-after autographs since 2000. The prices given are an evaluation of the dealer price for a fully authenticated, best quality 8 x 10 inch signed photo (unless otherwise stated), based on close monitoring of dealer and auction sales.
A “best quality” example will feature a photograph in superb condition, depicting the subject in their most famous era, with a sharp, clear signature acquired during that period.