Autographed Copies Poll

[rolanni]

As some of you may know (we didn't, until it was pointed out to us by an Alert Reader), Baen has decided to release two editions of some top-line 2012 books: A regular, unsigned copy at The Usual Price Point ($22 - $24); and a limited-to-1000-copy signed edition for $30. These editions would be released simultaneously and be available equally through all vendors, including Amazon.com and BN. This would effect books by David Weber, John Ringo, Larry Correia, and Lee-and-Miller.

I'm curious how readers might feel about the price difference between the signed and unsigned editions. When we were signing hardcover preorders for Meisha Merlin, back in the day, there was no extra charge for our signatures, so personally I'm rather. . .non-plussed by this new scheme. I do know that Very Special Editions -- such as slip-cased editions, or illustrated editions -- command higher prices, and rightly so, but it just seems. . .wrong to charge people for ink.

So! What do you think?


[Poll #1793777]

Comments

Similar thoughts to some others here

[mcfan02.livejournal.com]

My initial thought is that If I was sure the authors would benefit from the higher cost, and it only modestly benefits the publisher, then it would be ok to have a slight differential.

But at the same time, I remembered that I paid list at Hugo's and covered shipping, although no tax until I do my state income tax in April where my state (NJ) , not MN, will recoup (not sure if this is true of all states, or just high tax ones like mine). I usually get a discount from both Amazon and my local independent bookseller (10% for all books during months when a registered family member has a birthday and when it has an occasional coupon in the local flyer).

If the publisher were to have such a differential, would it preclude you from signing additional books - ie they said there are one thousand copies, so you can't sign more?

MIllie C

Re: Similar thoughts to some others here

[rolanni.livejournal.com]

If the publisher were to have such a differential, would it preclude you from signing additional books - ie they said there are one thousand copies, so you can't sign more?

I can't see how they could make that stick.

*Tries to visualize being behind a signing table and telling people, "Yes, I'll be happy to sign your copy of Ghost Ship, but I'm afraid I'm contractually restricted from signing Dragon Ship."*

Nah.