Susan Hampshire
Three-time Emmy Award-winning Actress · Entertainment - Film, Television, and Stage
BBC / NBC / PBS Masterpiece Theatre
Era
Likely modern/retirement era (approx. 2000s-2020s)
Item Type
Signed 8x10 Glossy Photograph
Condition
Excellent/Near Mint. The silver ink is bold and hasn't faded. The photo appears crisp with no visible creases or corner dings in the digital preview.
Rarity
Common to Moderate. Hampshire has been a gracious signer through the mail and at events throughout her long career.
Overall Assessment
A beautiful and genuine-looking example of a legendary actress's signature on a classic film still. Recommended for collectors of 1960s cinema.
Authenticity Assessment
Likely authentic. The signature displays the graceful, legible, and slightly upright script characteristic of Hampshire, featuring her typical 'S' and 'H' letterforms.
Signature Style
Full name signature preceded by a warm inscription ('with love'). The handwriting is elegant, cursive, and remarkably legible, consistent with her public signing habits for fans.
Signature Characteristics
Consistent baseline, fluid connecting strokes, and specific 'S' and 'H' loops. The pressure is even, indicating a swift, natural signing motion.
Ink & Medium
Silver paint pen or metallic marker on a glossy color photograph. The ink sits on the surface with high contrast, which is a modern preference for dark-background photos.
Item Description
A color still from the 1969 film 'The Last Valley', featuring Susan Hampshire as Erica alongside co-star Michael Caine. The photo depicts a romantic scene with gold coins in the background.
Estimated Value
$40 - $70 USD. While a respected actress, her market is niche, focused largely on 'Masterpiece Theatre' and vintage film collectors.
Comparison to Known Examples
Matches high-quality authentic examples found in the 'The Forsyte Saga' and 'The Pallisers' enthusiast collections.
Authentication Tips
Look for the distinctive loop in the 'S' and the high, crossing bar on the 'H'. Her 'with love' inscription should flow naturally without hesitation marks.
Certification Recommendation
Beckett (BAS) or JSA (James Spence Authentication). Certification is recommended if primarily for resale to confirm the silver ink is genuine.
Red Flags
No significant red flags observed. The placement and movement of the pen suggest an original hand-signed item rather than a print or autopen.
Provenance Notes
Often these are acquired through private signing events or TTM (Through The Mail) requests. Original envelopes or event tickets add moderate value.
Historical Context
Hampshire is an icon of British television, known for her roles in sweeping period dramas that defined early prestige TV for international audiences.
Market Trends
Stable. Demand is driven by nostalgia for British television classics and 1960s/70s cinema. Values are consistent without significant volatility.
Investment Potential
Low as a financial asset. High as a sentimental or completionist piece for fans of 'The Last Valley' or classic British acting.
Similar Autographs
Michael Caine (co-star), Diana Rigg, Glenda Jackson, or other stars of 1970s British drama.
Display & Preservation
Use a UV-protective acrylic frame or sleeve. Metallic ink can sometimes flake over decades if in contact with acidic materials; use acid-free backing.
Interesting Facts
Susan Hampshire was awarded an OBE and later a CBE for her services to drama and her significant work in raising awareness for dyslexia.