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Identification

Framed Print of 'Rock Island Quad Cities Terminal' by Paul N. Norton

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

The artwork is clearly signed 'Paul N. Norton' in the lower right and titled 'Rock Island Quad Cities Terminal' in the lower left.

Story

Paul N. Norton (1909-1984) was a prolific American watercolorist and commercial artist based in Moline, Illinois. He is best known for his detailed, realistic depictions of historical buildings, steamboats, and railroad depots across the Midwest. His original watercolors were widely reproduced as open-edition lithographs, making them common but beloved regional fixtures. Paul N. Norton prints are regional Americana staples, particularly in the Midwest and Quad Cities area.

Maker / Origin

Paul N. Norton

Condition & Value

Based on the provided information, the print appears to be housed in a frame, which provides immediate decorative utility. However, without detailed photos of the print surface or the back of the frame, potential issues like UV fading, foxing, or acidic mat burn cannot be definitively ruled out.

Full Research

See what it's actually worth.

Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

Market Analysis

Paul N. Norton prints are regional Americana staples, particularly in the Midwest and Quad Cities area. The secondary market for these reproductions is highly accessible but generally low-value, driven by local nostalgia and railroad enthusiasm rather than broader fine art demand. Works typically move best on local online marketplaces or regional estate auctions, with framed pieces commanding a slight premium over unframed examples.

Value Drivers

▲ Identifiable regional subject matter (Rock Island Quad Cities Terminal) appeals strongly to local history and railroad collectors.

▲ Framed presentation provides immediate decorative utility, elevating value above loose prints.

▲ Clear, recognizable signature by a well-documented Midwestern artist.

Concerns

▼ Unverified dimensions — a smaller-than-standard print size would push value toward the $15 floor.

▼ Unknown edition status — assumed to be a mass-produced open edition; lack of pencil numbering limits collector upside.

▼ Unverified condition under the glass — any hidden foxing or mat burn would significantly discount the piece.

Best Venue

Given the modest secondary market value, this piece is best suited for a local online marketplace (like Facebook Marketplace or eBay) targeting Quad Cities regional collectors or railroad enthusiasts. List with an optimistic asking price of $60-$75, but be prepared to accept offers in the $30-$40 range for a faster sale. Ensure exact dimensions are added to the listing before posting.

Upside Potential

If close inspection reveals pencil numbering indicating a small limited edition (e. g., '15/100') or an original pencil signature alongside the plate signature, the value could push toward the $100-$125 retail tier.

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Also found — market-range context

Related comps outside the valuation band· 2 comps

Surfaced during research but not used to anchor the valuation — wrong form, species, era, or no published price. Shown so the market range around this item is visible.

  • eBay via PicClick
    Vtg Lot of 4 Framed Paul N.Norton Prints Train Stations Matching Fra (EZS003791)
    Lot of 4 prints; quantity mismatch.
    $75
  • Modern Day Bids
    Paul N Norton, Mystic Seaport Watercolor Print
    Link could not be verified.
    $42