Roy Lichtenstein Artwork Value
What's my Roy Lichtenstein artwork worth?
Get a free valuation from photos. Learn how to identify originals vs prints, understand typical price ranges, and find the best way to sell your Lichtenstein.
At-a-glance: Roy Lichtenstein
A leading figure of Pop Art, Lichtenstein transformed comic book imagery and commercial graphics into fine art — and his print market remains one of the strongest in postwar American art.
Bio
Name: Roy Fox Lichtenstein
Years Active: 1951–1997
Nationality: American
Style
Pop Art pioneer — Ben-Day dots, bold black outlines, and primary color palette. Transformed comic imagery, brushstrokes, and art history references into instantly recognizable compositions.
What to look for
Corlett catalogue raisonné numbers, publisher blindstamps (Gemini G.E.L., Tyler Graphics), screen-printed Ben-Day dot texture, pencil signatures with edition numbering.
What Lichtenstein works do people actually own?
Most Lichtenstein works in private hands aren't the museum-scale paintings. Like Warhol and Johns, Lichtenstein produced significant print editions alongside paintings — and the distinction between valuable prints and decorative posters is critical. Understanding whether you have an original or reproduction is the first step in determining value.
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Posters and reproductions — $100–$5,000
Exhibition posters, museum shop prints, and photomechanical reproductions. Usually unsigned with large print runs. Posters have perfectly uniform dots under magnification — unlike authentic screen-printed editions. Decorative value only, even when professionally framed.
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Signed prints (smaller editions and later works) — $5,000–$50,000
Signed and numbered works from smaller editions or less iconic subjects. Look for publisher blindstamps (Gemini G.E.L., Tyler Graphics, Original Editions) and Corlett catalogue references. Artist's Proofs (A.P.) typically command premiums over standard numbered editions.
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Brushstroke and Interiors series prints — $20,000–$200,000
Ironic depictions of Abstract Expressionist brushstrokes and later domestic scenes rendered in Lichtenstein's graphic Pop style. Published primarily by Gemini G.E.L. and Tyler Graphics. Strongly traded at auction with consistent collector demand.
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Iconic comic-derived prints — $50,000–$500,000+
Romance panels ("Crying Girl," "Kiss"), war imagery, and speech-bubble compositions from the 1960s. The most recognized and valuable Lichtenstein prints. Signed editions listed in Corlett's catalogue command the highest premiums, with rare subjects and exceptional condition at the top of the range.
Original paintings start in the millions and can reach nine figures for iconic 1960s comic works. Upload your piece for a specific estimate based on current market data.
How to verify Lichtenstein authenticity
Authentication for Lichtenstein centers on distinguishing genuine screen-printed editions from photomechanical posters — a difference that dramatically affects value. Before getting a valuation, gather these details:
- Catalogue raisonné: Mary Lee Corlett's The Prints of Roy Lichtenstein is the definitive reference — if a print isn't listed, it's likely a poster or reproduction
- Signature and numbering: Lichtenstein signed in pencil lower right with edition numbering lower left (e.g., 45/100 or A.P. 5/15) — compare to documented examples for the specific edition
- For prints: Look for publisher blindstamps (Gemini G.E.L., Tyler Graphics, Original Editions) and examine Ben-Day dots under magnification — screen-printed dots show ink texture, while photomechanical reproductions are perfectly uniform
- Provenance documentation: Gallery records, auction history, prior Foundation authentication letters, and publisher documentation strengthen value and buyer confidence
- Authentication body: The Roy Lichtenstein Foundation wound down around 2021 and no longer issues new authentications — their archives remain an important reference; authentication now relies on catalogue verification and provenance
Upload photos of the front, back, signature, stamps, and any documentation for a preliminary assessment.
Roy Lichtenstein artwork FAQs
Start by checking Mary Lee Corlett's The Prints of Roy Lichtenstein — the definitive catalogue raisonné that documents edition sizes, publishers, and specifications for each print. Look for publisher blindstamps from Gemini G.E.L., Tyler Graphics, or other documented workshops. For general guidance on distinguishing originals from reproductions, see our original vs print artwork guide.
Original prints are screen-printed in limited editions with hand-applied Ben-Day dots that show subtle ink texture under magnification. Posters are photomechanical reproductions with perfectly uniform dots, produced in large quantities and usually unsigned. A signed original screenprint might be worth $5,000–$500,000+; an unsigned exhibition poster, $500–$5,000. Understanding this distinction is essential before getting a valuation.
Examine the dots under magnification — authentic screen-printed dots show slight ink texture and occasional irregularities, while photomechanical reproductions are perfectly uniform. Check for publisher blindstamps (Gemini G.E.L., Tyler Graphics), proper edition numbering in pencil, and a Corlett catalogue reference. If you're unsure, a free appraisal can help determine what you have.
1960s comic-derived imagery leads the market — romance panels ("Crying Girl," "Kiss"), war imagery, and speech-bubble compositions command the highest prices. Among Pop artists, Lichtenstein prints are second only to Warhol in market value, generally trading above Haring. Brushstroke series and Interiors prints also have strong collector demand.
The right venue depends on value. Exhibition posters and smaller works under $10,000 suit specialist dealers or vetted online platforms. Prints valued $10,000–$100,000 sell well through regional auctions or specialist sales at major houses. Above $100,000, consign to Sotheby's, Christie's, or Phillips. For pieces valued over $1,000, we can help connect you with the right channel — see our selling guide for more details.
Lichtenstein typically signed in pencil in the lower right margin, with edition numbering in the lower left (e.g., 45/100 or A.P. 5/15). His signature was consistent throughout his career — a clear, legible script. Compare your signature to documented examples for the specific edition in the Corlett catalogue — our artwork valuation guide explains what experts assess beyond the signature.
How to sell Roy Lichtenstein artwork
Ready to sell your artwork? Here's the process for Lichtenstein pieces at any value level.
Get a valuation
Upload photos and we'll identify your piece in the Corlett catalogue raisonné, assess condition and authenticity markers, and provide a realistic market value range within 24-48 hours.
Verify authenticity if needed
Confirm the Corlett catalogue listing and publisher blindstamps. Examine Ben-Day dots under magnification to rule out photomechanical reproductions. For prints previously authenticated by the Foundation, locate that documentation.
Choose the right channel
Under $10K: Specialist dealers, vetted online platforms, or regional auctions.
$10K–$100K: Major auction house print/contemporary sales, established galleries.
$100K+: Sotheby's, Christie's, or Phillips; private sale through major dealers.
Prepare documentation
Gather the Corlett catalogue number, edition details, publisher records, provenance history, and condition report. For Lichtenstein, complete documentation — especially publisher provenance — accelerates sales and strengthens buyer confidence.
Ready to get a free Roy Lichtenstein valuation?
Upload photos of your artwork — front, back, signature, and any stamps or labels — and receive a research-backed estimate with guidance on authenticity, pricing, and selling options.