For several years now I have been searching for the best method of adding value while protecting and authenticating my limited edition prints that went beyond hand signing and titling. For a wile I was sold on the idea of the National Fine Arts Title Registry which I still believe to be a great method of protecting the value of a print. Its strengths lie in its process of providing a system for inventory and tracking for artists while also providing safe, online records or registry of ownership via a database for art collectors. Where it fell short for me was the quality and craftsmanship of its C.O.A and in providing a serial number that directly linked the print itself to the supporting document. Sure it provided a document with a specific S.N. that was allocated to the limited edition print but how was I to prove it was linked to that print? And furthermore its appearance was more of that of a high school diploma than that of a fine piece of limited edition art.
I felt that I needed a system that better complemented my work, that represented museum quality, so I delved in further and finally located a product that brought it all together. The Hahnemühle Certificate of Authenticity was the product I had been searching for and from my research it would seem is a top choice of many fine art galleries. Each certificate is made of premium deckle edged mould made paper with a Hahnemühle watermark and fluorescent security fibres. A pair of serialized numbered holograms accompany each certificate and are intended to be adheared to both the certificate and the reverse side of the artwork. The holograms are tamper proof so once they are attached it is impossible to remove them without damaging them. The combination of certificate and hologram assures that each Certificate of Authenticity relates to one particular piece of art. They also supply a COA template if you need some help getting started. Finally they provide an online registry where you may register your limited editions for further protection.
Hahnemühle Certificate of Authenticity and Hologram System
Hahnemühle Certificate of Authenticity and Hologram System on reverse side of print.
In summary I am extremely pleased with this product and utilize it on all of my limited edition fine art prints. It provides unique tracking and authentication in an elegant museum quality fashion. Further more as it is widely used by high end professional galleries and artist alike, it has recognition in the art word which translates to value and assurance. For more information on the The Hahnemühle Certificate of Authenticity click the link.