From 1997 and the creation of Harry Potter until the present day, J.K. Rowling's signature has remained one of the most coveted and valuable when in a Harry Potter book. There are many things that need to be taken into consideration when looking at a Rowling signed book. One of these factors is knowing when to ask for help. Owing to a 20 year span between the first signed books until now, there have been many changes in her signature. For example, a 1997 Rowling signature features periods between J and K, a dotted i, and a more distinct w. By mid to late 1998, the periods have gone, and by her 1999 signature, the w flows almost directly into the l which can be seen in the featured example.

 

While the signature continues to evolve into the low and smooth signature it is today, what is important to remember is that these signatures are highly sought after. That being said, there are fake signatures and fake books EVERYWHERE. Many sellers will take the signed page out of a book and reinsert it into an earlier printing in the hopes of making the book more valuable. This is why knowing how the signature has evolved is important. The other important thing to know is to ask for professional advice when seeking out one of these books. 

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For more information on Rowling signatures, please contact myself, The Potter Collector, or All the Pretty Books.