Angus Young
Lead Guitarist and Co-founder of AC/DC · Music - Rock & Roll
AC/DC
Era
Modern Era - Circa 2000s-2020s
Item Type
Vinyl Record Album Cover
Condition
Excellent/Near Mint. The silver ink is bold and hasn't suffered from rubbing. The jacket corners look sharp from the visible angle.
Rarity
Moderate. Angus is a generous signer in person, but authentic solo-signed 'Back in Black' covers are always in high demand.
Overall Assessment
A highly desirable, clean example of a rock legend's signature on his most iconic work. Highly recommended for any serious rock and roll music collection.
Authenticity Assessment
Likely authentic; following the standard rapid 'in-person' style for which Angus is known. Confidence: 85%
Signature Style
Stylized 'Angus' with an elongated 'A' and a trailing 's' flourish. This is a common abbreviated version used for fans rather than a formal full-name signature.
Signature Characteristics
Consistent slant to the right. The 'A' starts with a sharp diagonal. The 'g' and 'u' are compressed, followed by a long, sweeping tail on the 's'.
Ink & Medium
Silver paint pen/marker on matte black cardstock. The ink is vibrant and sits on the surface, typical of recent metallic markers.
Item Description
AC/DC 'Back in Black' LP cover. The cover features the iconic embossed logo and text on a dark charcoal/black background.
Estimated Value
$400 - $700 (Authenticated)
Comparison to Known Examples
Matches very closely with silver paint pen examples from the 'Black Ice' and 'Power Up' era signing sessions.
Authentication Tips
Look for the sharp upward stroke in the 'A' and the specific loop of the 'g'. The signature should exhibit high speed with no hesitation marks.
Certification Recommendation
Beckett Authentication Services (BAS) or JSA (James Spence Authentication). Both are preferred for rock music memorabilia.
Red Flags
No significant red flags observed. The flow appears natural and the stroke speed is consistent with an authentic hand.
Provenance Notes
Valuable documentation would include a photo or video of the signing, or a ticket stub from a tour during the era the ink was available.
Historical Context
'Back in Black' is a landmark album, serving as a tribute to Bon Scott and becoming the second best-selling album in history.
Market Trends
AC/DC memorabilia has remained stable/appreciating due to their status as one of the top-selling bands of all time. 'Back in Black' is their most collectible title.
Investment Potential
Strong. As the primary face of the band, Angus's signature on their most famous album is a blue-chip rock collectible.
Similar Autographs
Brian Johnson, Malcolm Young, Bon Scott (ultra-rare), and Cliff Williams.
Display & Preservation
Frame in a UV-protected shadowbox. Use acid-free backing to prevent the record sleeve from yellowing or becoming brittle.
Interesting Facts
Angus is famous for his schoolboy uniform stage outfit and his high-energy 'duckwalk' inspired by Chuck Berry.