By definition, an investment should have the capacity to appreciate in value. An investment in art is no different. There is only one original. It may be painted on paper or on canvas or other surface. While the appreciation potential of an original work is greater than that of a multiple, the initial cost would also be significantly greater.
Limited editions are a definite and controlled number of prints based on an original.
The term Graphic Art is used to differentiate between original and multiple prints of the same image. This would include any work of art that begins with an original impression executed by the artist and repeated using any one of a number of printmaking processes. Their value of a print depends on many factors. Limited edition prints should maintain the same standards of quality as the originals, but represent a much lower initial investment. Their appreciation potential is tied to the artist's reputation , the quality of the print, and the size of the edition.