Whether you're an experienced book collector or just someone who loves literature, a fine first edition signed by a favored author is an object to be treasured. It was touched by the creator's hand, which for some gives the book a more meaningful connection to history. The difference in value of a signed book over an unsigned copy in similar condition can be significant. But the value of a particular signature can vary widely depending on the availability of that signature and whether or not there is an inscription. An inscription is simply anything written in the author's hand beyond the autograph.
Some authors tour extensively throughout their careers and are generous with their signings.
While this may indicate an artist's respect for his audience, this author's signature will not have nearly as much impact on value as the autograph of a writer of similar stature who has made a habit of avoiding book signings and other public appearances. The presence of an author's signature in a book can alter some of the conventional rules of pricing. In book collecting generally, an author's seminal works are typically more desirable than later ones. Very often it is the first book or even an early self-published pamphlet that is most collectible. An autograph may create the exception, such as in the case of John Irving.