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From Banksy to a Jay Leno bike sale... The power of 'instant collectibles'
A Yamaha YZF-R1 motorbike has just raised $87,000 for charity - and it's all thanks to it's rarity
We talk about 'instant collectibles' a fair bit here at Paul Fraser Collectibles - but what do we mean by an instant collectible?
Well, whereas some items take years, decades or even longer to become sought-after and valued on the global markets, instant collectibles are there from day one.
 Banksy's commemorative artworks |
Recent examples include a series of £5 prints issued by the UK graffiti artist Banksy.
Released to "commemorate" recent riots in the UK, the small number of prints shot up in value thanks to the hype surrounding them and Banksy's global status.
Initially sold for £5, the prints were appearing on eBay for £200 each within 24 hours - that's an increase in value of 4,000%.
Impressive stuff. And 'instant collectibles' aren't only limited to artworks. Take this motorcycle, for instance...
The special and one-of-a-kind Yamaha GYTR-equipped YZF-R1 has a red-and-white paintjob which commemorates Yamaha's 50th Anniversary.
The bike was ridden in demonstration by rider Kenny Roberts at last month's Red Bull United States Grand Prix at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, US.
After building-up sufficient levels of hype, the bike was then auctioned by Mecum in California. The event was attended by TV personality and classic car collector Jay Leno.
 'Instant' satisfaction: the $87,000 Yamaha bike sale attended by Jay Leno |
Its final price? $87,000 - with all proceeds going to the Bailey's Café, a non-profit organisation that brings youth and elders together through the arts and other services.
There seems to be a fair bit of buzz our one-of-a-kind collectible vehicles at present. These include a one-of-a-kind "art car" BMW that Bonhams are putting up for sale.
Proof that collectibles needn't necessarily be old to generate value; and that 'instant collectibles' can be relied-upon to generate money for a good cause.
Watch this space for more news from the 'instant collectibles' markets.
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Image: Mecum
