Keith Haring’s “Double Man” (1986) — A Rare, Highly Sought-After Limited Edition Lithograph

Few contemporary artists have achieved the global cultural impact of Keith Haring, whose instantly recognizable visual language reshaped street art, political art, and Pop Art across the 1980s. Among his most desirable original fine-art editions is Double Man (1986), a vibrant lithograph showcasing Haring’s iconic radiating lines, rhythmic movement, and symbolic emphasis on unity and human connection. With only 85 impressions ever produced and each individually signed, dated, and numbered, this edition has become an important benchmark for collectors seeking authenticated, investment-grade Haring works.

This particular example, signed and dated 1986 and numbered 34/85, reflects the artist’s signature style at its creative peak. The bright red field and energetic black-and-white figure reinforce Haring’s exploration of motion, community, and the shared human experience. Created for the Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane & Company project, the work also embodies Haring’s commitment to social activism and artistic collaboration during a pivotal time in his career.

Specifications and Edition Details

The lithograph measures 22 x 30 inches and is executed in color on wove paper. The lower right edge bears the artist’s handwritten signature, the year, the edition number, and Haring’s characteristic circled cross symbol. The print is documented in the standard reference catalog known as Littmann P. 62, making it straightforward to trace within Haring scholarship. The offered example remains in very good condition with no apparent issues and includes a certificate of authenticity.

Fine-art prints from the 1980s are increasingly scrutinized for paper tone, ink quality, impression crispness, and potential restorations. The condition of this lithograph aligns strongly with criteria expected for a high-grade collectible print, especially one nearly four decades old.

Condition and Authenticity Considerations

With the rise of unauthorized reproductions and forged Haring signatures, authentication has become essential for serious collectors and institutions. Key indicators include paper type, printing method, margin dimensions, signature placement, edition scripting, and catalog-referenced documentation. Haring’s signed prints often include subtle variations that are difficult to replicate, such as line pressure, pencil flow, and the distinct characteristics of his numbering style.

Collectors should also consider provenance, historical exhibition records, and COA verification. Given the financial significance of fine-art prints within the contemporary art market, a professional authentication and appraisal ensures not only peace of mind but also long-term protection, resale leverage, and insurance readiness.

Legacy and Collecting Significance

Keith Haring’s work remains central to museums, academic institutions, and global collectors due to its cultural importance and enduring relevance. Double Man stands out among his limited editions because of its bold composition and strong alignment with Haring’s core themes: movement, unity, energy, and human connection. Its creation during the height of Haring’s career adds to its desirability, and the low edition size of 85 further elevates scarcity.

Demand for authenticated, high-quality Haring works continues to rise, especially as collectors seek definitive pieces from the artist’s mature period. Works from the mid-1980s consistently outperform broader contemporary print trends, making them strong candidates for long-term appreciation.

Estimated Appraised Value

Based on current market performance, auction results for comparable signed lithographs, edition size scarcity, condition, and artist significance, the estimated fair market value for an authenticated example of Double Man (1986) is approximately $18,000 to $28,000. Exceptional provenance or museum-level condition can command even higher figures in private sales, reflecting the intense demand for original Haring works within the global collecting community.

Professional valuation is important for collectors, estates, and investors who need documentation for insurance, asset planning, or future resale.

Importance of Appraisal and Authentication

Fine-art prints by major contemporary artists increasingly require clear documentation to preserve value and reduce the risk of future disputes. Authentication protects buyers and sellers from misattributed works, while a formal appraisal creates a traceable record establishing condition, market value, and long-term significance. As the market becomes more competitive, verified documentation has become a key indicator of trust and professionalism in the contemporary art space.

To submit your artwork for appraisal or authentication, simply use our online form at the link underlined here: submit your item for expert evaluation at our services page. You may also schedule an in-person consultation in Charleston, SC for high-value artworks, print collections, and modern or contemporary pieces requiring hands-on analysis.