1983 Illinois Duck Stamp Print - 'Lady's Choice' Artist Proof by B.L. Kassebaum
B.L. Kassebaum (Artist) / Illinois Department of Conservation · Art & Decor > Framed Art & Wildlife Prints
Era / Decade
1980s (Specifically 1983)
Material
Paper lithograph print, double matted with custom cutout pencil remarque window, protective glass, framed in a solid wood dark stain frame.
Condition
Very Good. The artwork, pencil signature, numbering (16/20 AP), and remarque appear clean with no visible light fading or moisture damage. The wood frame exhibits minor vintage scuffs consistent with age.
Demand Level
Niche to Moderate. Strong appeal among duck stamp collectors, waterfowl hunters, cabin/lodge decorators, and vintage sporting art enthusiasts.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$60.00 (Low) - $110.00 (Mid) - $175.00 (High)
Estimated Retail Value
$250.00 - $350.00 (Original issue price plus professional custom framing cost in the 1980s)
Comparable Sales
1980s state duck stamp prints with artist proofs/remarques typically sell framed between $75 and $150 on eBay and specialized art auctions depending on artist popularity and condition.
Description
Framed 1983 Illinois Duck Stamp Print titled 'Lady's Choice' by renowned wildlife artist B.L. Kassebaum. This piece is an official Artist Proof (AP 16/20) and includes a hand-signed pencil signature by the artist, a lower margin title cutout featuring an original pencil remarque illustration of a teal duck, double matting, and a handsome dark wood frame.
Key Features
Hand-signed by artist B.L. Kassebaum; low Artist Proof edition (16/20 AP); features a original pencil remarque drawing in the bottom cutout window; desirable wildlife/duck stamp sporting art collectible.
Authenticity Indicators
High confidence. Clearly visible hand-penciled numbering ('16/20 AP'), title ('LADY'S CHOICE'), and signature ('B.L. Kassebaum') alongside copyright date '©1983' embedded in the print plate.
Flaws to Note
Minor cosmetic wear and surface scratches to the wood frame. Backing dust cover may have aging/wear typical for 1980s framing.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay (best national reach for duck stamp collectors), Facebook Marketplace / Craigslist (ideal for local pickup to avoid shipping large glass artwork), or Etsy.
Selling Tips
Highlight 'Artist Proof', 'AP 16/20', 'Pencil Remarque', and 'Illinois Duck Stamp 1983' prominently in the listing title. If shipping via eBay, disassemble or pack extremely securely with bubble wrap and corner protectors to prevent glass breakage.
Notes
BL Kassebaum 1983 Lady’s Choice, Illinois Duck Stamp Award