John Saxon and Jim Kelly
Martial Arts Film Icons and Co-Stars of 'Enter the Dragon' · Entertainment - Film & Martial Arts
Warner Bros. / Enter the Dragon (1973)
Era
Modern Era (post-2000s)
Item Type
8x10 color photograph
Condition
Excellent; signatures are bold and crisp with no fading; item has no visible creases or surface wear.
Rarity
Moderately rare; specifically as a dual-signed item, as both actors are now deceased (Kelly d. 2013, Saxon d. 2020).
Overall Assessment
An authentic, high-quality dual-signed piece from a legendary film; ideal for serious cinema or martial arts collectors.
Authenticity Assessment
Highly likely authentic (95% confidence)
Signature Style
John Saxon: Full name with a high-looping 'J' and sharp 'S'; Jim Kelly: Vertical orientation with 'Right on!' inscription.
Signature Characteristics
Natural ink flow, varying pressure on Kelly's loops, and Saxon's rapid, fluid connecting strokes.
Ink & Medium
Blue permanent felt-tip marker (Sharpie) on a semi-glossy photo print.
Item Description
A high-quality 8x10 color still from the 1973 film 'Enter the Dragon' featuring characters Roper and Williams in their Han's Tournament yellow gi.
Estimated Value
$250.00 - $400.00 USD
Comparison to Known Examples
Matches late-life convention examples perfectly; Saxon's 'J' is consistent with his 2010s signing habits.
Authentication Tips
Look for Saxon's distinctive cross on the 'x' and Kelly's consistent use of the 'Right on!' catchphrase inscription.
Certification Recommendation
Beckett Authentication Services (BAS) or JSA (James Spence Authentication).
Red Flags
No significant red flags observed; ink saturation and stroke speed appear natural for the medium.
Provenance Notes
Likely sourced from a private signing or a martial arts/comic convention where both actors appeared.
Historical Context
Signed by the two American leads of the most influential martial arts film of all time.
Market Trends
Values for 'Enter the Dragon' cast members have steadily appreciated following the passing of the principal actors.
Investment Potential
Strong; dual-signed items from this specific film remain a cornerstone of martial arts cinema collecting.
Similar Autographs
Bruce Lee (extremely rare), Chuck Norris, Bob Wall.
Display & Preservation
Display under UV-resistant glass to prevent blue ink fading; avoid direct sunlight.
Interesting Facts
Jim Kelly was a professional tennis player and karate champion before being cast in the film.