5 unique items not to be missed...

Photography is perhaps the most important art form of the 20^th century.

Like no other, it transformed the way we see the world around us and captured the immediacy of modern life.

Today photography is growing quickly into what Christie's has described as a "highly competitive" market.

Now recognised by galleries and major auction houses around the world, photography prices are increasing as both traditional art collectors and dedicated photography collectors battle it out for the most important and iconic works.

This effect can be clearly seen in auction results from the past 12 months:

• In June 2011, the only known photograph of the infamous outlaw Billy the Kid smashed its estimate of $300,000 to sell for an amazing $2.3 million.


• In November 2011, Andreas Gursky's image 'Rhein II' became the world's most expensive photograph when it sold for a World record price of $4.33 million. It was the second time the record had been broken in the space of just six months.


• And just last month, in March 2012, a single New York photography auction set an impressive eight new World Record prices - with images selling for up to 344% above their initial estimates.

As a recent article in the British Telegraph newspaper commented;

"There's good reason to believe that photography prices will continue to rise, with more people willing to invest large sums in it...the National Gallery announced their first ever major blockbuster exhibition of photography next year, cementing the art form as a medium of major historic and cultural significance that now even the naysayers can't deny."

There's no doubt that the market for iconic photography is booming - and here at Paul Fraser Collectibles we're witnessing it first-hand.

In recent months we've sold more photographs than ever, as our clients take advantage of this rapidly rising market.

In the past few weeks we've sold items including:

SOLD FOR £9,500

SOLD FOR £8,955

The demand for original, iconic photographs far outstrips the supply, and after years of building up our catalogue we now have just a few examples remaining:

A rare signed photograph of JFK and his children at the White House

This beautiful silver gelatine print depicts President John F. Kennedy, along with his children Caroline and John Kennedy Jr., on the White House terrace with their pony Macaroni.

It perfectly captures a peaceful moment in the young President's home life, and is uniquely signed by all four members of the family including his wife Jackie Kennedy. Price: £19,950

An original Charlie Chaplin photograph signed by the man himself

Charlie Chaplin is one of the most influential and important figures in movie history.

His character 'The Tramp' is perhaps the best-loved and most iconic character from the Golden Age of Hollywood - timeless, and instantly recognisable.

This superb vintage sepia-toned photograph shows Chaplin as 'The Tramp', and is signed "To my friend Frank, from Charlie Chaplin". Price: £4,500

One of the best signed James Dean photographs we've ever seen

This iconic signed photograph of James Dean is one of the finest we've ever seen.

Featuring the actor sat in a thoughtful pose, the striking black and white image bears Dean's signature and an inscription in which he describes himself as "the Thinker" in reference to the famous sculpture by Rodin. Price: £18,500

A unique, candid signed photograph of Elvis taken in Germany

This unique, candid photo of Elvis Presley was taken in Germany during his military service. It was during this period he met Priscilla Beaulieu, who would later become Priscilla Presley.

The moment captures Presley smiling in his U.S Army uniform, and bears his signature in blue ink on the reverse. Previously unseen, this image was acquired by the Aunt of one of Priscilla's classmates in Wiesbaden. Price: £3,500

The Beatles and Muhammad Ali - five 20th century icons together

This incredible photograph depicts first meeting between some of the biggest cultural icons of the 20^th century - Muhammad Ali and The Beatles.

Both were rapidly rising in fame - the Beatles were on their first U.S tour which saw the birth of international 'Beatlemania', and Ali (then still known as Cassius Clay) was just days away from his first fight with Sonny Liston which would see him crowned World Heavyweight Champion.

The photo depicts the Beatles lying in a boxing ring at the feet of Ali, as he beats his chest and roars above them. The photograph is also signed by Ali himself in blue ink. Price: £1,950

Your next step...

We're proud to offer these pieces, each of which would grace any top collection.

Not only are they stunning images in themselves, but we believe they offer superb investment potential for those looking to diversify their portfolios.

If you're interested in adding any of these unique photographs to your own collection, or would like more information about any of our stock items, it's easy to get in touch. You can:

Email us at info@paulfrasercollectibles.com

Call us on +44 (0) 117 933 9500

Or simply click the button below and we'll be happy to call you back.

Here at Paul Fraser Collectibles we pride ourselves on providing the best pieces, with impeccable provenance and a lifetime guarantee of authenticity on everything we sell.

Many of our items also qualify for our 120% Guarantee - which we believe is the best in the business. Click here to find out more.

And to view our entire range of stock, which covers everything from antiques and art to manuscripts and memorabilia, visit our online store here.

Disclosure

Collectibles, including, but not limited to, wine, coins, classic cars, art, autographs and postage stamps are not designated investments for the purposes of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Regulated Activities) Order 2001 and as such are not subject to regulation by the Financial Services Authority (FSA) or otherwise.

We believe that the purchase of investment grade Collectibles should be both enjoyable and profitable, but like any traded commodity there are risks and past performance is not a guarantee of future results.

If in doubt we recommend you consult with a tax expert or financial advisor for clarification.