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Signed David Hockney Print Found in Charity Shop Sells for £41,160

market-auction · 2026-07-18

A lithographic print by David Hockney, which was signed, was found in a donated copy of the 1980 book 'Paper Pools' at a Salvation Army store in Norwich, fetching £41,160 on eBay. Jemma Banks, a local artist and volunteer, stumbled upon the print while browsing through the book. Donated at the Goat Lane shop last year, the book remained unnoticed until Banks took a closer look. The print, preserved for 46 years, was researched by the Salvation Army Trading Company and listed on their eBay shop for collectibles. The bidding soared, surpassing typical charity shop prices. An anonymous buyer, a devoted Hockney fan, expressed joy in knowing the proceeds benefit the Salvation Army's community initiatives. This discovery is particularly poignant as Hockney passed away last month at 88. Major Tracey Bale of the Norwich Citadel praised Banks's curiosity and expertise for the remarkable find.

Key facts

  • A signed David Hockney lithographic print was found inside a donated copy of 'Paper Pools' (1980) at a Salvation Army shop in Norwich.
  • The print was discovered by volunteer Jemma Banks, a local artist.
  • The print sold for £41,160 on eBay via the charity's Collectables and Curiosity shop.
  • The book was donated at the Goat Lane shop sometime last year.
  • The print had remained undisturbed in the book for 46 years and was in perfect condition.
  • The buyer is anonymous and a long-time admirer of Hockney.
  • Proceeds go to the Salvation Army's community work.
  • David Hockney died last month at age 88.

Entities

Artists

Institutions

  • Salvation Army
  • Salvation Army Trading Company
  • Norwich Citadel
  • Artlyst
  • BBC

Locations

  • Norwich
  • Goat Lane
  • United Kingdom
  • Norfolk

Sources