In recent auctions, album covers signed by John Lennon have been sold for more than $50,000. There are several variables that affect the selling price. Among these are the album title, the condition of the cover, and the quality of the signature. More celebrated albums have greater value than lesser releases, and those in mint, or near-mint condition command the best prices. The more legible the signature, the price better the selling price as well. Because of the opportunity to defraud an unsuspecting public, it is important that the signature be authenticated and have an accompanying certificate to verify the authentication.