Early Signature Picks

Although imprinted guitar picks have a history of going back to the 1930’s, band imprinted guitar picks did not gain popularity until the late 1970’s. The first band guitar picks in fact were very plain with the band name in a block typewriter style print. As time went on, artists put their signatures on the back, bands had their logos imprinted and the colors and printing on the picks became a multitude of styles. In fact, the art of collecting guitar picks has become so popular, that even drummers and singers of bands are having their own guitar picks made.

Distinctive Artist Picks

Most band guitar picks are made to an artist’s specification. In many instances they oversee the artwork, style and color. Even the quantity of how many guitar picks are printed is controlled by the artist. In the early days of touring a band may have ordered less than 200 guitar picks to last an entire tour (which is why some early picks are quite valuable). With today’s hectic and lengthy touring schedule a band may order up to 5000 guitar picks for a tour, but in comparison to other highly sought after collectibles such as sports cards, beanie babies and even bobble head dolls this is a very small number. This may be why collecting band guitar picks have been growing in popularity and in many instances gaining in value which can make them a good investment.

Signature guitar picks are as varied as the artists that use them

So you say how do I obtain these great items? Well of course you can go the easy way and purchase them from us at Swag.com or use auction sites such as Ebay or Yahoo. For the aggressive collector, go to the concert and hopefully obtain a guitar pick once it is thrown into the audience. After the show is over you may want to look on the floor after everyone leaves, you may find one or two. You could also go to a stagehand and if you beg a bit you may get lucky and walk away with one (guys, let your girls do the asking). Once you establish a collection you can also trade with others thru guitar pick discussion boards or join a trading club such as PickNet. Taking part in one of these groups also can keep you informed on what’s new and what to avoid.