Banksy is the most recognizable name in contemporary street art and among the most counterfeited. The authentication infrastructure around Banksy's work is more developed than for most street artists — but also more complex. Here is what buyers need to know.
Pest Control: The Official Authentication Body
Pest Control Office is the only body authorized to authenticate Banksy's work. Established by Banksy himself, Pest Control issues certificates of authenticity that include a half-torn currency note — buyers hold one half, Pest Control retains the other. This system is designed so that authentication cannot be faked by copying the cert; only the matching currency note confirms authenticity.
Pest Control does not authenticate all Banksy works on demand. They authenticate items sold through authorized channels and respond selectively to authentication requests for works in private circulation. A Pest Control certificate significantly increases value and buyer confidence. Works without a Pest Control cert are not necessarily fake, but they carry more uncertainty.
What Pest Control Does Not Cover
Pest Control authenticates prints and editions released through authorized channels. It does not authenticate unauthorized prints, photographic reproductions sold as originals, or items described as Banksy-style without a production trail. Be skeptical of any seller claiming a piece is attributed to Banksy without Pest Control documentation.
Gross Domestic Product
Banksy's Gross Domestic Product store (2019) released a series of items through an application process. Items purchased through Gross Domestic Product came with their own documentation tied to the store. GDP items are distinct from Pest Control-authenticated editions; both have secondary market value, but GDP items should be verified against the store's documented release list.
Red Flags
- No Pest Control documentation for a major print release
- Claims of Banksy signing — extremely rare and requires exceptional provenance
- Prices significantly below documented auction comparables
- Sellers unable to provide the split currency note for Pest Control-certified works
Browse our authenticated street art inventory at gauntlet.gallery.
