Read the edition mark and ask what it leaves out
A number on a print is one part of identifying what is offered. It does not by itself prove authenticity, quality, scarcity or resale value. Use this fictional enquiry record to request the missing documentation before agreeing to buy.

1. Copy the exact visible mark, artist, title, date, medium, sheet and image dimensions. Ask whether the object is an original print, a reproduction or another type of edition.
2. Ask the seller to explain the numbered edition and any separately identified proofs or variants. Do not assume the denominator describes every impression or version that exists.
3. Match the offered object to its invoice and any certificate. Record who issued each document and what it actually confirms; a signature alone is not a complete provenance.
4. Keep condition, framing, price and written return terms separate from the edition description. Leave unanswered fields open rather than interpreting a low number as a better offer.

Fictional object record: Mark shown: 2/30; artist/title/year and medium still to be supplied. This is not a listing or an appraisal.
Edition question: Does “30” describe this numbered edition? Are there artist’s proofs, printer’s proofs, different sizes, colours or later editions? Request the publisher’s or artist’s applicable record.
Proof question: If the offer says AP, ask what that mark means for this work and how many such proofs were made. Do not invent a universal proof allowance.
Documentation check: Invoice describes the same object, dimensions and mark; certificate issuer and date recorded; gaps in ownership history remain explicitly unknown.
Enquiry to copy: Please confirm the exact edition/proof mark, edition record, medium, dimensions, condition and accompanying documents for this particular impression, plus the complete price and return terms.

Fictional object record: ____________________
Edition question: ____________________
Proof question: ____________________
Documentation check: ____________________
Enquiry to copy: ____________________
Use the replies to identify the work and decide whether further independent advice is needed. Numbering alone cannot establish that a purchase is a good investment.

Old City Arts — first artwork question sheet — https://oldcityarts.org/guides/buying-first-artwork/