What is a Limited Edition print, Artist Proof, Press Proof and/or Conservation Issue print?
Limited Edition Print – An edition of prints with a set amount of the numbers of prints that are published. After the print run, the printing plates are destroyed and no more of that print will ever be made. Artist Proof – Traditionally they were the prints that the artist and the pressman agreed on as the best color. These were set aside and labeled as Artist Proofs or Press Proofs. They are basically the same print, but a higher value because of a lower amount in the edition size. The print is usually labeled with an A/P. Press Proof – The same as an Artist Proof except a lower quantity and even higher value. These are usually labeled P/P. Conservation Issue – Same value as a regular print, but usually set aside for conservation groups. Often, these are only available to the highest bidder at an auction (For example: at a Ducks Unlimited banquet).
