US actor Farley Granger's death earlier this week was notice to collectors of the lasting popularity of Hitchcock films.

The 85-year-old took lead roles in two of the director's biggest pictures: Rope and Strangers on a Train.

The actor also had a busy love life. At one time or another he was romantically linked with Leonard Bernstein, Arthur Laurents, Ava Garner and Shelley Winters.

Although Granger's own memorabilia has not been a powerful seller in the past, his recent death could see prices rise.

Farley Granger in the 1947 film Rope

Hitchcock items continue to fascinate, however, and are popular investments with collectors.

An original Psycho single sheet poster achieved $1,314 at an auction in 2008 while eight cinema posters from the same film made a combined $2,151 in 2009.

Collectors looking for pieces of Hitchcock memorabilia without the uncertainty of bidding at auction may wish to consider signed photos by the great man. Hitchcock's signature is rare, making such items potentially rewarding investments.